[MCR] White Queen, Whitewater Ski Resort, Selkirk Mountains

[Public Mountain Conditions Report]

Just got back from a tour to the summit of White Queen via the west 
ridge on a well-beaten up-track.  A few small wind slabs dotted the 
route higher up.  These were inconsequential but are still worth 
noting.  Encountering one of these on a steep or exposed slope could 
knock someone off their feet and send them down.

Also noteworthy is the thin melt/freeze crust on open, sun-exposed 
slopes all the way from the summit to the valley.  The inversion of 
earlier this week finally saw south facing slopes warmed up above 
freezing.  The crust affected ski quality, but aggressive turning made 
short work of it.  It was less noticeable in the trees, but a harder 
crust ringing tree wells was more of a problem.  Hitting one of these 
unexpectedly could send you on your butt or through the air like 
Superman.  Ride with care.

Unfortunately, the forecast for next week doesn't include much new 
snow.  When the next dump does come, hopefully the crust won't cause any 
lingering stability problems.  We need more new snow, the terrain around 
the Whitewater Ski Resort is starting to look pretty shredded.  
Although, I'm sure there are still some secret stashes of powder out 
there, just gotta find them.

Cheers,

Craig Hollinger,
ACMG Apprentice Ski Guide.