Polaris Point Observation

We went to Polaris Point where we had previously identified facets on February 6. The approach had 3-4" of new snow in the parking area.  As we began ascending the North aspect through the timber, snow totals diminished into the 2" neighborhood.  As we gained elevation the facet layer was perceptible 5-6" deep with our ski poles, but no obvious signs of instability were observed while skinning on this layer.  We dug a pit near 7,500' on a North aspect.  The snowpack showed signs of water drainage and general strengthening.  Tests targeting the Feb 14 facets produced mixed results (ECTP 22 and ECTN). Another test about 100 ft away also produced ECTN results. On our departure we utilized our approach track on a semi-shaded South aspect, and areas we skied in the morning had melted out to exposed dirt.