Thin weak snowpack in the Apgars

Location Name: 
Forecaster Observation - Apgar Range, GNP
Observation date: 
Saturday, November 24, 2018 - 14:45
Is this an Avalanche Observation: 
No
Observation made by: Forecaster

Location

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Quick Observation

Traveled to the Apgar Range to assess snowpack conditions in west-central Glacier Park.

  • Thin snowpack below 5000' (<8") with 16-20" at upper elevation sheltered locations.
  • Friday's storm deposited up to 4" of relatively dense (10+%) snow on a variety of surfaces.  These include sun crusts on solar aspects, well-preserved facets in sheltered locations and windboard on exposed upper elevation slopes.
  • A 4-6" layer of buried facets is responsible for an upside-down snowpack. 
  • Surface cracking beneath my skis was common in areas with a surface crust or soft slab. No shooting cracks observed.
  • Recent moderate east winds have eroded ridgetop cornices and scoured east facing slopes.
  • Exposed brush on all aspects is currently limiting avalanche potential. No signs of recent avalanche activity.
Snowpack, Avalanche, Weather Images: 
Travel Details
Region: 
Glacier National Park - Apgar Range
Route Description: 

Hiked/skied the well maintained Huckleberry Mountain trail to the Apgar crest.

Activity: 
Skiing
Hiking
Snowpack Details
Snowpack and Weather Details: 
Hide Terrain
Elevation of observation: 
3500-5000 ft
5000-6500 ft
Aspect(s) of observation: 
NE
E
SE
S
Persistent Weak Layers: 
Facets or Faceted Crust
Depth Hoar
On the surface
Buried
New Snow in the past 24 hours: 
4.00in.
Total Snow Depth: 
16-20"
More comments about the snowpack and weather: 
Areas of fog obscured ridgeline views. The widespread layer of facets formed during our recent dry spell will be a concern when a robust storm returns to our area. These facets were found on all aspects at the elevations I traveled.
Wind Speed: 
Calm (No air motion)
Air temperature: 
Below Freezing
Snow line: 
Valley floor
Sky Cover: 
Partly Cloudy (SCT)
Avalanche Details
Avalanche Details: 
Date and Time of Avalanche: 
Sunday, November 25, 2018 - 05:45