November 14, 2011, White Pass, Paradise no-go

We were going to try to get up to Paradise today, but since the Rainier NP plow drivers decided to join the NBA-players/occupy-protesters/whoever-else-is-not-working, we went to check out the conditions at White Pass. I would second the comments about widespread whoomphing out there. It was very whoomphy. We saw some shooting cracks and some other signs on instability. Didn't see any slides, though. Coverage was spotty, or thigh deep depending on the aspect. The snow was highly wind driven.

I haven't got a clue about the area, since it was my first time there, so I can't tell you where these photos were taken. Sorry for the lack of action shots.


Windy conditions in the parking lot made for even more windy condition up top.


Pow town. Conditions were surprisingly consistent, and ranged from creamy wind-buff to soft powder.


Backside of the ski area, near the gunsight.

I envy the one who finally gets to get past Longmire and get some turns in! Should be good up there.

First time skiing in the PNW in years. It's good to be back.

Brett