January 10, 2005, Silver Basin

Just like a couple of ole dogs with a powder appetite, Art and I returned to the Crystal backcountry.  Checked in with Paul B. at the patrol office who provided the latest snowpack data and a smile.  The High Campbell lift opened over the weekend but Campbell Basin was closed and mostly untracked, we skinned center stage and laid down a set in the sun exposed slope for the latte group in the new lodge.  The temperature was in the low 20's, sunny, no wind and anywhere from 12 to 18" in the bowl.  Life is good.

We skinned through Avalanche Basin again and the runs off The King still look a bit scratchy. Lizard Back Ridge was in great shape and it was calf to knee deep powder into Silver Basin.  A young couple ahead of us placed a great skin track for us older guys up Silver Basin towards Box Car. Box Car  Cornice is still a bit scratchy in places based upon the sounds from the trailbreakers.  We pulled the skins below the rocks and enjoyed boot deep dust down the Basin.  The December crust is evident in the wind affected areas and steep lines.  The intermediate lines were great.  No evidence of natural or skier triggered releases.  The temps were ideal for climbing and the snow quality was exceptional.  

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