Did an ascent of Mount Hector yesterday via the regular route.
The snow coverage is still good down low and the approach gully had a crust that made for easy boot-packing. On the glacier there is more than 3 meters of snow, including 20-30cm of new powder. There are a few open crevasses at around 2900m that are easily visible on the ascent and the descent. The cornices on the East and North-East face of Little Hector are massive right now and there were lots of old debris from past avalanches.
It looks like you can almost ski to the East summit without too much trouble. However the West summit does not currently hold a lot of snow and a tricky bit of climbing through a rock band is required to access the summit. Ice axe and crampons are a must.
The weather was mixed in the morning with 0C at the car. Then it turned into a winter
blizzard as soon as we reached the glacier. Moderate to strong winds from West were redistributing the new snow rapidly. Expect some wind slabs. By early afternoon, back at the car, it was +5C. The snowpack was isothermal below the approach gully.
We only saw one size 2 natural avalanche and it was off the East side of Little Hector.
Enjoy the Spring!
Felix Camire
ACMG Hiking & Ski Guide
elgato.ca |
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