[MCR] ACMG Mountain Conditions Report Summary for the Rockies and Columbia Mountains issued November 8th, 2012

ACMG Mountain Conditions Report Summary for the Rockies and Columbia Mountains issued November 8th, 2012 Winter is easing in gently to these ranges. Terrible winter driving on the east slope of the Rockies today and the forecast is for snow there till late friday. Reports are coming in about some decent skiing in the high treeline and alpine in the interior and some areas in the Rockies. Assume it will be really rugged at lower elevations and that slow speeds and big skis are great ideas. Parks Canada is putting out avalanche bulletins and they are worth reading. Keep in mind with those reports and with this MCR summary that we have relatively few observations to go by at this time of year. Anywhere you go in the alpine expect to be your own avalanche forecaster. The consequences of a ride in an avalanche are likely higher than later in the year as the potential to be raked across rocks is much higher in this shallow snowpack. To quote the Glacier Park bulletin--"33 cm of storm snow in the past 36 hrs has resulted in an instability over a crust and old snow. This has been observed in a small avalanche cycle with size 2 to 3 avalanches early Nov 7 and shows in stability tests at treeline" They have also had alpine and treeline winds from the south up to 60 kmh in the past 3 days That is going to help the snow cover but definitely means you need your brain turned up high for choosing where to ski in the Columbia mtns People are getting after some ice climbing and the cold temperatures in the Rockies forecasts should help the ice hold together. Beware those little fresh snow drifts above cliffs and in gullies and think about what is way over your head with all this new snow, wind and changing temperatures in the Rockies. Glacier travel will be sporty for awhile yet as we really do not have a settled snowpack on the glaciers at this time. Days are short and the mountains are somewhat unfriendly. Have a fine weekend that contributes to you having a fine rest of winter. Survive and thrive! Next week will be the final MCR summary for the season. The Canadian Avalanche Centre should be starting up their public bulletins around that time. Thanks for tuning in. Larry Stanier ACMG 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.