Observations from Castle Peak

Spent a few hours in the Castle Peak area between 10:00-13:00. 

Snowfall rates transitioned from light in the morning to moderate in the afternoon. About 10cm of dense new snow on the ground in Castle Valley at noon. 

Winds were very light below tree line in the valley and on Andesite. Winds became stronger while in exposed near tree line terrain on the ridge between Castle and Andesite. Observed minimal blowing snow while on the ridge.

A mostly unsupportable crust was encountered on all exposed solar aspects. Crust was found under the new snow up to 8000 feet on Andesite and the Castle Pass ridge. Several quick hand pits revealed poor bonding between the crust and the new snow. The thin crust made for challenging punchy ski conditions.