GNP Observation

Location Name: 
Shields (6996')
Observation date: 
Friday, December 11, 2020 - 12:00
Is this an Avalanche Observation: 
No
Observation made by: Public

Tabs

Quick Observation

Very thin conditions at lower elevations - significantly less than what we found two weeks ago. On exit we encountered several new trees blown down from recent winds.

  • Dust on crust on all elvations and aspects climbed/skied (N- NE - E - SE).
  • Observed evidence of avalanche activity perhaps a few days old. Looked like wet loose likely from previous warming. Most looked to be D1 or 2 in size on East to Southeast Aspects and appeared to originate in shallow rocky areas/ looked like they slid to ground and covered with 2-3 inches of new snow.(See pics)
  • A few hand pits showed 2-3 inches of new snow on top of approximately 1.5 inches of melt/freeze or rain crust with faceted snow beneith. 

 

Travel Details
Region: 
Glacier National Park - Southern Lewis Range
Route Description: 

Skinned up the usual route along the southeast ridge. Lower elevation was very thin with lots of log negotiating skills required.

Activity: 
Skiing
Snowpack Details
Snowpack and Weather Details: 
Hide Terrain
Elevation of observation: 
5000-6500 ft
Aspect(s) of observation: 
NE
E
SE
Red Flags: 
Avalanches from the past 2 days
Persistent Weak Layers: 
Facets or Faceted Crust
New Snow in the past 24 hours: 
2.00in.
Wind Speed: 
Light (Twigs in motion)
Wind Direction: 
Southwest
Air temperature: 
Below Freezing
Snow line: 
Rain crust and/or melt freeze prevalent at all elevations
Sky Cover: 
Overcast (OVC)