[MCR] Simpson Pass/Healy Pass

[Public Mountain Conditions Report]

Ski toured and winter camped March 28 - 30 with Yamnuska's Mountain Skills
Semester in the Simpson Pass/Healy Pass area. During this time we received
37 cm of new snow accompanied by moderate to strong winds. We experienced
significant whumphing and some cracking, especially at tree line and above.

Field tests were giving easy results within the storm snow and the March &
February surface hoar layers. The north-east aspects were particularly
unstable, with one 30 degree lee slope at 2250 m giving consistent very easy
results down 60 cm on surface hoar and facets. [The test columns were
sliding off during cutting.]

Natural avalanches could be heard coming off of Quartz ridge throughout the
day of the 29th, but poor visibility hindered an accurate assessment of
their size.

We chose to avoid avalanche terrain and stuck to slopes that were under 20
degrees with no overhead hazard. We also strictly avoided terrain trap
features.

Ski quality was quite good, with 35 cm of powder over a melt-freeze crust
that was mostly supportive, especially on solar aspects. Given the angle
restrictions on the slopes we skied, we didn't produce much in the way of
Powder 8's, but we did some enjoyable Powder 11's!

Play safe and be careful out there!

Nicholas Rapaich Assistant Ski Guide / Assistant Alpine Guide
Grant Meekins Assistant Ski Guide / Alpine Guide

Yamnuska Mountain Adventures