A quiet Noisy

There has been a lack of recent observations from the Swan Range, so off we went.

• We found evidence of recent wind effects at mid and upper elevations on windward aspects - scoured with teardrop shape drifts behind trees, along ridgelines - cornice growth, and on leeward slopes - stiff, dense surface snow. 
• There were a handful of natural cornice failures over the past few days. None that we saw initiated an avalanche on the slope below. Cornices we kicked were stubborn and only released where they were substantially overhanging.
• In wind-sheltered terrain, the top few inches were light and powdery but beneath was more dense snow.
• Even by Swan Range standards, the light was extremely flat, and we could not make out any recent avalanche activity.
• World-class rime was observed on trees at mid-elevations and the radio tower at upper elevations.