October 22, 2016, Heliotrope Ridge

     Five of us held an OcTAYberfest after a years' absence from the Mt. Baker Highway.  We hit snow after about 1500 v.f. hiking, and some dropped shoes at the top of the Hogback.  Above 5500' there was a minimal but firm base from the last snow-and-rain event, and several inches of new that became lighter but more windblown.  Skinning was simple with a couple of small creeks still open and occasional shallow pockets.  from 6000-7000' it was generally wind deposited to a pretty consistent depth of 4-5".  I did not see anything of a depth to slide on the new snow, and the rain layer was generally rock solid.  The view from the notch in the ridge was fine but was hampered by an ice-laden, eyeball-scouring wind.
     Several groups made laps in the bowl feature between Marmot Ridge and
the single giant crevasse.  This was notable quality:  "woo-hoo" chalky powder on the firm base.   There were rare ice patches where it was wind-affected, but we got almost 1500' of great turns and a few hundred more of weed-whacking below the Hogback.
      Winter was definitely performing its opening act up high!  If we keep getting even a little fresh each day, the new season is starting might fine.
     Of particular note is our good-TAYme pal, Mr. "Rusty Knees" Don Heath, who reached the 120-month/10-year milestone with humor and aplomb. ¡Buena suerte on your next ten of TAY!