[MCR] ACMG Mountain Conditions Report Summary for the Rockies and Columbia Mountains issued September 19, 2013

ACMG Mountain Conditions Report Summary for the Rockies and Columbia Mountains issued September 19, 2013 Conditions in the Rocky and Columbia mountains have changed from last week, however, not all hope is lost. A widespread low pressure system moved through the Columbias and Rockies on Wednesday that brought snow down to tree-line in both ranges, if only momentarily. Likely, the high elevation classics will be temporarily out of condition. Reports from the Rogers Pass area say that the peaks received a dusting of snow and as of today are mostly wet and drying out fast. A skiff of snow remains on Sir Donalds North and West flanks and is otherwise wet. Mt. Bonnies North face is looking the snowiest in the region with perhaps 5-10cm near the summit. The peaks on the Eastern slopes of the Bow Valley corridor received up to 5cm of snow around Kananaskis Country. Further west near Lake Louise received the most storm snow with 10-20cm on the North faces of peaks like Mt. Temple and Mt. Victoria. Jasper was relatively unscathed in Wednesday?s storm and there is little remaining snow to speak of with the exception of a very light dusting on the high north aspect of Mt. Edith Cavell. Looking out the window in Canmore this afternoon it is apparent that the South aspects are melting very quickly and might be back in shape within a day or two. The North aspects may take more time to return to normal summer/fall conditions. Hazards to be mindful of this weekend are rock fall generated from melting snow(observed on Mt. Fairview today) and perhaps a small loose snow avalanche or small wind-slabs at the highest North facing aspects. Weekend weather will be sunny and warm in the valley bottoms and cool up high. If you set your sights on big mountaineering classics, do not expect perfect summer conditions. The safe bet would be to choose valley rock climbs or a mountaineering objective with a due south aspect that is now free of new snow. Have a safe, yet adventurous weekend. Aaron Beardmore Mountain Guide
These observations and opinions are those of the person who submitted them. The ACMG and its members take no responsibility for errors, omissions, or lapses in continuity. Conditions differ greatly over time and space due to the variable nature of mountain weather and terrain. Application of this information provides no guarantee of increased safety. Do not use the Mountain Conditions Report as the sole factor in planning trips or making decisions in the field. Please check out http://acmg.ca/mcr for more information.

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These observations and opinions are those of the person who submitted them. The 
ACMG and its members take no responsibility for errors, omissions, or lapses in 
continuity. Conditions differ greatly over time and space due to the variable 
nature of mountain weather and terrain. Application of this information 
provides no guarantee of increased safety. Do not use the Mountain Conditions 
Report as the sole factor in planning trips or making decisions in the field.
See http://acmg.ca/mcr for more information.
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