[MCR] Selkirk Mountains-Laforme Creek-Sale Mountain

Hi,

Just came out of the Sale Mountain area (North of Mount Revelstoke
National Park in the Selkirks) where I guided a group for 4 days.

30cm of storm snow coupled with moderate to strong winds from the
South created widespread windslabs at Treeline and Alpine elevations.
We did not ski much at these elevations due to poor ski quality
(upside down feel) and avalanche hazard concerns. Some cracking around
our skis while breaking trail on Tuesday, but otherwise nothing moved
while skiing.

Trail breaking depth improved during our stay, starting at 70cm deep,
diminishing to 40cm by the last day, testing our early season fitness...

Of note, only one avalanche was observed (48-72hrs old by now), a bit
of a surprise considering the large amount of storm snow during the
last week and the recent wind event. A size 2.5 or 3, on or near the
edge of a glacier on a North aspect, slab 100-150m wide with a one
Meter crown above a big cliff, definitely a large and unsupported
feature. Could not see the deposit due to marginal light.

Snowmobilers were showing up late afternoon as we exited, but we did
not see them engage the steeper slopes.

These widespread windslabs are now buried by a layer of beautiful dry
powder. Careful assessment will be required, specially near ridge tops
before jumping in. Cornices were starting to form and large glide
cracks were observed on West and South facing slopes.

Take care,

Sylvain Hebert
ACMG Ski Guide



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