Toured up Dickey Ck and eventually into the Marion/Essex drainage. Found conditions very similar to other observations from the Middle Fork the past two days; however we observed minimal wind effect.
South aspects were getting baked and eventually turned to mashed potatoes making for some interesting turns. Found a ~1cm surface crust in various areas. Eventually made our way to some true north aspects and found the pot of gold - light, blower pow. The skiing on this aspect was excellent.
We did observe surface hoar developing on the majority of the first northern aspect, from 6,800 ft down to ~5,600 ft. Skied a different northern aspect on the exit that was also great skiing, no surface hoar was observed in this protected gulch. No formal pits/tests but no signs of instability.
Observed 3 wet loose avalanches (~D1.5) on steeper, south facing aspects.
