December 30, 2010, Stevens, Union-Jove powder

Dick, David, Paul and I were the first car in the Smithbrook pullout at 10degF.  We were soon passed by a group of petro powered skies.  I was hoping they might break a trail, but no such luck.  From near the end of the switchback, we gained the ridge through trees. Not much evidence of wind action on the south facing slopes.

From Union summit, the narrow ridge had a plenty of soft powder up-down over many snow ribs.  The upper slopes of Jove had deep fresh powder settling on lower snowpack with various wind history.  Some on fairly shallow crust, some just deep down 2' w/o crust.  We did not see any evidence of recent avy activities.

We considered skiing down the north slope to Lake Janus on gentler slope.  Given the available daylight and the relatively stable snowpack, we decided to descend the steep south slope.  It was very tempting to plunge down the center, but we didn't feel quite comfortable on somewhat funky snow.  Maybe in a couple days more...

As seen in a pic, we skied the slightly gentler slope near the trees.  A bit shorter, but still long fall line requiring almost too many turns for our tired legs.  I have never had good skiing on the south slope, and finally powder runs!!  Actually only one run, but still a great run.  Wish we had a couple more hours of daylight...

We arrived at the car around 5pm after a bit dark, but didn't need headlamps.  Spectacular scenic tour, and wonderful powder run!  What more one can ask?  A couple more runs in the middle!

Now the trail is broken you might be able to harvest the powder this weekend. (Approaching from the south over Rainy Pass might be quicker for skiing)