Observation on Waterhouse Peak

Toured around Waterhouse Peak this morning. Only trace amounts of new snow were present at the 7700 foot base, but evidence of previous rain was widespread. Soft snow conditions were present during the ascent with up to 5 inches of new snow present in the deepest higher elevation locations. I was impressed how small the wind pillows on the upper ridge were and there were no cornices present at all. Obstacles (rocks and logs) are widespread in the bottom third of the area but skiing conditions were still enjoyable. We stuck to below 30 degree terrain and observed no instablities on our descents. 

Dug a pit in an open area heading towards Powderhouse on the summit ridge. Height of snow was 110cms with graupel widespread in the storm snow. I got a CTM RP at 98cms and a PST 90/100 END on the 12/11 facets. 

Photo 1: Waterhouse and Powderhouse Peaks as the morning sun first hits with no visible snow on trees even at the uppermost elevations.

Photo 2: Rain crust surface conditions in open areas on Grass Lake (elevation 7700 feet).

Photo 3: Minor settlement cracks around trees

Photo 4: Evidence of rain crust and blowing snow.

Photo 5: The summit of Waterhouse with previous boot prints visible and areas on zero new snow.

Photo 6: PST 90/100 END on 12/11 facets. Facets were findable here but a much thinner layer and less weak than in other locations.