[MCR] Rockies - Ski Conditions

A TRU Canadian Mountain and Ski Guide Program Ski Guide Exam spent a week of ski touring in the Rockies from April 4-10 in Lake Louise, Kootenay Parkway, Icefields Parkway and Kananaskis areas. We experienced a variety of weather over the week with significant snow fall averaging 30cm in the alpine on April 5^th. New snow fell with little wind affect and bonded well to old surfaces. During the week we had cold nights and daytime warming on solar aspects with freezing levels going up to 2100m.

Avalanche activity was limited to point releases up to size 1,5 (loose dry and loose wet). Cornice failures produced a variety of results up to size 3 (older) from deep slab releases on steep North facing aspects. Sluffing observed on steep Northerly aspects.

Recent storm snow overlies a variety of surfaces. There is a well settled mid pack on all aspects sitting over weak snow above the ground (basal facets). On Southerly aspects multiple crust layers are present.

Good travel conditions on glacier with snow depth varying from 150-350cm. Warm conditions at lower elevations have caused wet snow conditions making travel challenging later in the day. Great ski quality was found on North aspects. Good trip planning is essential with early starts due to day time warming. Bring ski crampons.

Today in Lake Louise it is snowing and more new snow is expected.

The Ski Guide Exam Crew &

Marc Piché - Mountain Guide

Todd Craig - Mountain Guide

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