I just wanted to add to Rudi’s fine post.
Later in the day(around 1 PM) the sun had significant effect on steeper SW to W aspects that resulted in lots of pinwheeling/snowballing as well as several size 1.0 loose moist avalanches – so things on those aspects changed significantly later in the afternoon. With prudent timing and aspect selection, we still managed 2300m of amazing skiing today.
In addition to the large new snow crystals (stellar) on the surface, we noted surface hoar crystals 3-5mm. in size between 1800-2000m. (seemed to correlate with the valley fog layer that was in and out).
We also did a snowprofile at 2600m. on an East apsect - snowdepth was 200cm (so a deep place for current snow depths) the upper crust(Nov.6) was down 95cms from the snow surface and was well bonded on both sides and the next one was another 25cms lower and likewise well bonded. It would be interesting to see what it looks like in a shallower/rockier piece of terrain – likely not so great!
Currently we have a steady snowfall in Revelstoke – so all those surface layers (and crust balls!) are now being hidden - could be interesting if we get 20+cms of snow – be alert for the changing conditions.
Cheers,
Scott Davis
ACMG/IFMGA Mountian Guide