April 4, 2003, 3 Way Peak, Crystal South BC

Stopped at the Ski Patrol office at Crystal, signed out and received a briefing from Paul B. It was sunny and warm at the base. Quicksilver lift was closed so skinning up the chair line was deserted. There was a perfectly groomed snowcat track all the way up to Silver Basin which made the climb fast. The High Campbell chair was open as well as the South Backcountry. Skiers were traversing all the way into 3 Way Peak Basin to ski in the shade. There is about 12" of light powder in the shade. Anything which received sun exposure is heavy and has a thin sun crust. Slopes under 30 degrees were ideal. On the steeper lines, you would feel the hard crust below. Avalanche debris is partially covered and is very hard. Plenty of powder available, just ski the moderate lines or be a lightweight. :)
Zap