November 19, 2011, Stevens Pass environs
11/19/11
WA Stevens Pass
2593
2
We did a couple laps up towards Skyline lake (about 1000' above Hwy 2, across from the resort). We stayed on Southern and SW aspects roughly between 4000' and 5000'. We found generally complete coverage, and light, fluffy snow about 6" deep, which made for very easy skinning and skiing. Steeper open slopes had some coverage issues - I hit a bunch of rocks on a rib - but the avalanche chutes had collected a lot of cross-loaded snow, making for truly superb early season skiing.
Stability seemed good - pole probes found powder above 2' of slightly denser (and very uniform) snow above what must have either been the ground or a serious crust. No whoomfing, no cracks, no slabby activity. (Though we didn't explore any East-facing terrain, where wind slabs were more likely to exist.)
A short day - probably less than 2000' vertical - but the skiing was just beautiful. A great start to the season!
Stability seemed good - pole probes found powder above 2' of slightly denser (and very uniform) snow above what must have either been the ground or a serious crust. No whoomfing, no cracks, no slabby activity. (Though we didn't explore any East-facing terrain, where wind slabs were more likely to exist.)
A short day - probably less than 2000' vertical - but the skiing was just beautiful. A great start to the season!
We were across the street hitting the backside of the area. Pretty darn good snow for this early, everyone hit a rock or two, but it was worth it!
Great photos!
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