Jan 15, 2017, Jove Pk W Slope, Burgdorfer Rt(pics)

Haven't checked tomorrow's weather yet, just getting back.  But wanted to get out that the west slope stayed well preserved from the summit down to Lake Janus with the help of filtered clouds blocking the afternoon sun.  Some wind effect off the top but easily carve-able packed powder.  Turned into 8" of great near surface faceted zingy powder from 5600 ft to the lake at 4100 ft.  Tree wells filled in.  Deep snowpack covering small obstructions.  Generally right side up snowpack with lots of well settled old powder.
We approached the traditional Burgdorfer route Smithbrook, through Union Gap, to the PCT wrapping around the west side of Union Peak.  Putting a skin track in, we stayed higher around the south and west sides of Union than we probably had to.  Met a party who came through Union/Jove gap from Rainy Creek.

Pics:

https://www.flickr.com/photos/23557848@N03/albums/72157675576543093