June 11, 2012, Mt. Baker Ski Area Backcountry

Continuous snow to the parking lot continues to make for easy access into the Mt. Baker backcountry heading towards Artist Point or Table Mountain.  However, with last week's rain down low and new snow higher up, skier/rider triggered slides are of great probability on the more steep slopes.  I hiked into the basin below Artist Point and Table Mountain, and recent slide activity had me staying hikers right going up the gully as seen in the first photo.  After hiking slightly over 1,000 vertical feet from the basin, I finally reach the ridge line and am greeted with astounding views of Mt. Baker along with what looks the remnants of a massive slab avalanche as seen in the second photo.  After soaking in the views, I make some speedy turns, staying skiers left from where I started, third photo.  I would not recommend going skiers right until snow conditions further stabilize.  Once stabilized, the area should provide ample areas for some steep turns!

Snow conditions:  The first 500 vertical feet from the ridge line was 6 - 8" of sun soaked fresh snow on top of a soft crust.  Further down, the snow turns to more of a corn like consistency albeit a little sticky towards the basin.