May 19, 2001, Cowlitz Rocks, Mt. Rainier NP

Roger, Don, Tom and I decided to head for Cowlitz Rocks. Even though avy hazard was fairly high due to the recent storm and then sunshine we found stable snow. Admittedly, the strong winds and intermittent clouds kept the pack from warming up too much so I think we picked a good day. No evidence of slides other than small sluffs off of rock bands. Very few skiers out today. We saw 2 guys heading out as we went in and then 3 others who dropped down from the Muir snowfield below Anvil and over to the Cowlitz area. At the end of the day only a few turns were present coming off Mazama and in upper Edith Creek. Snow was pretty good although a little mushy in spots. There's a pretty good crust down about 12-15 inches so if things really warm up the hazard could escalate.

Tim