[MCR] ACMG Mountain Conditions Report Summary for the Rockies and Columbia Mountains issued November 15.2012

ACMG Mountain Conditions Report Summary for the Rockies and Columbia Mountains issued November 15.2012 Here is the final MCR summary of the season. Now that winter is here we will hand off to the Canadian Avalanche Center, Parks Canada, and K Country to publicize current avalanche conditions. ACMG members will continue to post their onsite observations of hazards and conditions during the winter months. Weather: It looks like the mild temps and limited precipitation will continue in the Rockies for extended forecast period, while the Columbias will see a return to wintery weather beginning Saturday. Hazards: In the Rockies it is looking like recent winds have created isolated windslabs in Alpine terrain, something to keep in mind as you meander between ice pitches. The Nov.6th crust is down 15-25cms in the Bow summit area and is not currently producing significant shears. I also received a report that the N. Face of Stanley had recently avalanched down to summer snow/ice – hmmm that is something to ponder! In the Columbia's the major concerns are recent windslabs, which continue to respond to human triggers in steep Treeline and Alpine lee/windward features (meaning I saw 2 more size 1.5 avalanches triggered today in Rogers Pass). The second lingering concern is the Nov.6th rain crust – currently buried by 60+cms. of snow. It has been a few years since we have had a significant rain crust layer and many people do not have much experience with this type of persistent weakness. It can be pretty sneaky, and often it takes significant load (80-100cms) and a mature (meaning stiff) slab before they begin to perform. Do not be lulled by a lack of initial activity, and appreciate that this crust (actually 2 crusts) is widespread throughout the terrain, which means it has the potential for LARGE and DESTRUCTIVE avalanches when the time is right. So keep tuned into local bulletins for changing reactivity in regards to this layer. Travel Conditions: Let's just start by saying – IT IS STILL EARLY NOVEMBER! – So" sticks and stones that will break your bones" is the rule of the day! As far as Ice climbing goes – "if it is in – it is THIN", is the word I got from fellow guides in the rockies, lots of good info on the Gravsport website regarding what is currently being climbed out there, but be prepared and bring your stubby icescrews and rock gear! Travel is still tricky with a shallow snowpack and early season obstacles making skis awkward and walking perhaps the better of options. It sounds like the mild temps in the Rockies have helped settle the 65-85cms snowpack in the Bow summit area, making for reasonable skiing. . Rogers Pass has a variable snowpack, with 40-60cms in valley bottom and an average of 150cms above 1900m. – every snowfall improves the bobsled route out the Connaught ck. trail. Have a GREAT winter, and remember it is still early – pace yourself! Scott Davis ACMG/IFMGA Mountain Guide
These observations and opinions are those of the person who submitted them. The ACMG and its members take no responsibility for errors, omissions, or lapses in continuity. Conditions differ greatly over time and space due to the variable nature of mountain weather and terrain. Application of this information provides no guarantee of increased safety. Do not use the Mountain Conditions Report as the sole factor in planning trips or making decisions in the field. Please check out http://acmg.ca/mcr for more information.