Narrow window at Flagpole

We got an early start to Flagpole today, but still encountered wet snow at the surface on an E aspect at 9am, just at our threshold of comfort.

Along our approach, we found a partial refreeze under trees and a better refreeze out in the open. But with the occasional full depth posthole even away from trees shortly after 7am, we knew we didn't have much time before the surface became too soft.

Several large cornices and recent wet loose avalanches were visible in the area, and one recent avalanche had a flank that appeared more slab-like than loose. Similarly, several glide cracks were observed at varying stages of decay.

Cloud cover was broken at sunrise and may have contributed to the less than ideal refreeze. We spent most of our day in the full sun while watching cloud cover increase significantly to the north. Winds were moderate from the west but very warm.