[MCR] Selkirk Mountains, Whitewater ski area

[Public Mountain Conditions Report]

Just did a couple of days ski touring around the Whitewater Ski area 
slack-country in the sunshine.  We skied an elevation range of 1600m to 
2200m on all aspects.

I was pleasantly surprised that the recent warm temperatures hadn't 
trashed the snow too badly.  The trees were still carrying snow although 
tree bomb activity was picking up later in the day on solar aspects. 
Steep, open solar slopes showed signs of significant snowballing while 
shaded aspects had plenty of dry powder.  There was a temperature crust 
on open solar aspects that softened in the afternoon.

Surface hoar growth is abundant (up to 15mm crystals) at all elevations 
but more on the solar aspects than shaded.  Go figure!  On the solar 
aspects its growing overnight and melting during the day.  In many 
places the surface hoar is sitting on a 20mm temperature crust.  This 
layer will likely be of concern when we get more new snow.

I didn't see much evidence of recent avalanche activity unlike regions 
north of here.  What avalanche debris I did see was covered with new 
snow.  Cornices are looking well developed, but I didn't see any recent 
falls.  As the afternoon temperatures rise, I'd expect the threat of 
avalanches to increase on steeper solar slopes.

Despite the apparent stability I employed the usual cautions in 
avalanche terrain, avoided avalanche paths and steered clear of slopes 
threatened by cornices.

Enjoy the sunshine, but play it safe.

Craig Hollinger,
ACMG Assistant Ski Guide.