Observations from Powderhouse Peak

Only a few inches of new snow at 8000 feet. Fresh snow was still a bit wet and heavy at these lower elevations. This changed quickly as elevation was gained and above approximately 8500 feet there was over a foot of cold dense new snow. Winds were strong moving signficant amounts of snow above treeline. There was evidence of previous wind distribution of snow below treeline as well. Quick mit pit tests of obvious wind slab did not indicate presence of a weak layer on observed slopes. 

Photo 1: Most trees above 8200 feet showed significant signs of settlement.

Photo 2: Above treeline the wind had compacted the new snow and made it very dense and slabby.

Photo 3: Small cornices were impressively strong. No significant cracking or propagation observed. 

Photo 4: Wind affected snow below treeline (but nearing summit ridge).