[MCR] Update to Wapta Conditions

Hi folks,

Just got back from a stellar start to the week on the Wapta Icefield, with Sergeant Chris Alden from 3PPCLI.  Monday, the weather cooperated allowing ascents of St. Nicholas, Olive (true summit), and Gordon.  Afternoon showers hurried us off of the shoulder of Rhonda S.  Tuesday started sunny and warm but quickly clouded over, saving the snow for ascents of Baker, Barrel, and Habel.

Bridges are starting to become quite evident across the Wapta, particularly below Rhonda S and Habel.  Bare ice is now visible on the steep roll between Gordon and Rhonda S.  Cornices are continuing to crack off.  Fellow guide Patrick Delaney observed more activity yesterday on Mt. Olive.  Across on Ayesha, a cornice triggered a size 3 avalanche right to ground on the E Face.  Similar activity was observed on the E Face of Mt. Baker.

Skis offered good travel and quick descents on variable surface condition from hard crust to afternoon corn.

Of note, on the approach, the crossing of the creek draining from "mini Crowfoot" was knee deep.  On the way out, it was back to boulder hopping.  Extremely variable flow based on the amount of precipitation occurring throughout the day.

Brent Peters
AAG
Yamnuska, Inc.   
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