[MCR] White Queen, Whitewater Ski Resort, Selkirk Mountains

Subject: [MCR] White Queen, Whitewater Ski Resort, Selkirk Mountains
Date: Fri, 04 Jan 2013 15:12:36 -0800
Just got back from a tour to the summit of White Queen via the west ridge on a well-beaten up-track. A few small wind slabs dotted the route higher up. These were inconsequential but are still worth noting. Encountering one of these on a steep or exposed slope could knock someone off their feet and send them down.

Also noteworthy is the thin melt/freeze crust on open, sun-exposed slopes all the way from the summit to the valley. The inversion of earlier this week finally saw south facing slopes warmed up above freezing. The crust affected ski quality, but aggressive turning made short work of it. It was less noticeable in the trees, but a harder crust ringing tree wells was more of a problem. Hitting one of these unexpectedly could send you on your butt or through the air like Superman. Ride with care.

Unfortunately, the forecast for next week doesn't include much new snow. When the next dump does come, hopefully the crust won't cause any lingering stability problems. We need more new snow, the terrain around the Whitewater Ski Resort is starting to look pretty shredded. Although, I'm sure there are still some secret stashes of powder out there, just gotta find them.

Cheers,

Craig Hollinger,
ACMG Apprentice Ski Guide.
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