Red Lake Peak Observation

Toured on Red Lake Peak today looking for sun softened snow. At the time of our noon descent there had been minor softening on sunny aspects. Generally south facing slopes in this area are becoming thin and there are many areas where no snow exists at all. The upper south east plateau at about 9700 feet is almost entirely melted out. This area commonly has thin snow coverage due to strong wind scouring but conditions seem boney even considering that. No instabilities were observed during our tour. 

Random Observation: There is a cow wandering on the edge of Hwy 88 near the Blue Lakes SnoPark. 

Photo 1: The east facing side of the SE gully.

Photo 2: Ample snow in the middle of the gully but sides are melting out.

Photo 3: Some wintery snow in the flat terrain close to Red Lake Peak. Very small amounts of chalky near surface facets were present on some small shaded areas but this overal zone receives a lot of sun. 

Photo 4: Minimal boot penetration at 11:45am. 

Photo 5: Looking up towards the top of Red Lake Peak.

Photo 6: Looking down the gully.