Donner Summit/Sierra Crest Observations

Rain crust up to 8200' in this area with a trace to 2'' of heavy high density snow on top.  In the highest wind loaded terrain at or above treeline N-E aspects had up to 4-6'' of 1F hard snow.  These wind loaded areas were very localized and were not reactive to ski cuts/ski kicks.  The rain crust had variable ski support on all aspects and elevations.  SW winds were moderate to strong in speed for all of the day, snow transport decreased into the afternoon as the available snow was scoured down to the rain crust.  Hand pits in the upper wind loaded terrain did reveal shear failure directly above the rain crust.  Had consistent moderate CT's on this layer but no propagation with the ECT.  Did have some very localized shooting cracks in wind loaded terrain.  Had some roller ball activity off ski tips while skiing at lower elevations on solar aspects.  Overall stability was good except for some concern with the small wind slabs at or above treeline on N-E aspects.        

Photo #1: Debris pile off of the Sierra Crest/Anderson Ridge.  Looked to be from a cornice failure, N aspect, 8000'.  Visibility was poor with flat light but it appeared to be recent.

Photo#2:  North facing ridge off of Mt. Lincoln/Sierra Crest with some cornice drop on slope.