Yellowstone Ski Tours

We had increasing collapsing of the snowpack above 9300', and noted natural avalanches on adjacent alpine slopes (all aspects, presumably on a density change within the new snow).

The rain/ snow line from April 8 and 9 appeared to be around 8600'-9,000'. Below that elevation the snow was saturated 10-15cms below the surface. However, the snow was consistently supportable to the weight of a skier above 7700'.

Lots of nearby avalanche activity from the last storm (about 1 week ago).

Slightly wind loaded slope- from previous storms.

Snowpit dug on belay.

Observed a recent avalanche on an adjacent, wind loaded SE aspect (2-4' deep and 200' wide).

One collapse experienced at about 7500' on the approach. Winds were blustery and moving snow about the upper elevation ridgelines today, but light in the mid elevations. Also noted some small natural loose snow avalanches on steep northerly facing terrain (from the last 36 hrs.).

Pit location was about the elevation where the surface wind effect decreased, and the skiing became good. Though the skiing was found to be punchy/ thinner/ rocky in locations below also.