[MCR] ACMG Mountain Conditions Report Summary for the Rockies and Columbia Mountains issued June 18, 2015

ACMG Mountain Conditions Report Summary for the Rockies and Columbia Mountains issued June 18, 2015 We are far ahead of the regular snow melt schedule in both the Rockies and Columbia Mountains. In the Rockies, the front-range rock climbs are all in "regular" condition and mainly dry. Mountaineering reports from the Lake Louise and Columbia Icefields show great travel conditions with a good overnight freeze. The overall concern is the rapidly thinning snow pack and snow bridges on the glaciers. This can make the crevasse dodging tricky, especially in the transition zones where the bare glacier ice meets the snowline. Some afternoon wet avalanches up to 1.5 have been reported in isolated, steep terrain in the sun, as well as rockfall in gullies that are still draining snow melt. Rogers Pass reports are saying the snow melt is over a month ahead of schedule, with most of the “classic” alpine routes being climbed such as Tupper, and the West and North faces of MacDonald. Similar glacier conditions and concerns to the Rockies have been reported in this region. There is a bear closure for the trails leading to Mt. Sir Donald, and more information can be found on the Glacier National Park website. Valley bottom rock climbs are all generally dry. It is going to be a little wet until Saturday, but Sunday through the rest of next week look like great weather. It’s going to be a good time to get up early in the alpine while the easier snow travel exists, as the inevitable knee jarring scree season might begin earlier than usual this summer. Steve Holeczi 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.