Jan 15, 2008, Mt. Rainier, Alta Vista

A late start, limited visibility, lack of familiarity with the area, variable snow, and a deadline for being back in town equals a short trip.  Arrived at Paradise at 2:30.  Up to Alta Vista and back, no time for a second lap.  0 to 2" windblown on top of 3/4" crust.  Crust was supportive except for a couple of spots in the trees (more shaded presumably).  Actually nice skiing in spots but visually difficult to distinguish the good from the bad.

We went up hoping for some sunshine and views but it was pretty socked in and snowing lightly the whole time so my plans for getting a good look at the terrain were dashed.  Couldn't see any slide activity but then we couldn't see much of anything.  Snow on east side of ridge was soft slab in a few places but wasn't moving.