[MCR] Selkirk Mountains-Laforme Creek-Sale Mountain

Subject: [MCR] Selkirk Mountains-Laforme Creek-Sale Mountain
Date: Fri, 14 Dec 2012 13:19:32 -0800

Hi,

Just came out of the Sale Mountain area (North of Mount Revelstoke National Park in the Selkirks) where I guided a group for 4 days.

30cm of storm snow coupled with moderate to strong winds from the South created widespread windslabs at Treeline and Alpine elevations. We did not ski much at these elevations due to poor ski quality (upside down feel) and avalanche hazard concerns. Some cracking around our skis while breaking trail on Tuesday, but otherwise nothing moved while skiing.

Trail breaking depth improved during our stay, starting at 70cm deep, diminishing to 40cm by the last day, testing our early season fitness...

Of note, only one avalanche was observed (48-72hrs old by now), a bit of a surprise considering the large amount of storm snow during the last week and the recent wind event. A size 2.5 or 3, on or near the edge of a glacier on a North aspect, slab 100-150m wide with a one Meter crown above a big cliff, definitely a large and unsupported feature. Could not see the deposit due to marginal light.

Snowmobilers were showing up late afternoon as we exited, but we did not see them engage the steeper slopes.

These widespread windslabs are now buried by a layer of beautiful dry powder. Careful assessment will be required, specially near ridge tops before jumping in. Cornices were starting to form and large glide cracks were observed on West and South facing slopes.

Take care,

Sylvain Hebert
ACMG Ski Guide



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