Alpental Slide

I don't think they've opened anything but Elevator Gate.

Stimbuck here,

I put the photo and fracture profile together. The weak layer is a low density layer, about 4mm thick that was formed around 12/24. No facets, just low density snow between two higher density layers.

This avalanche released naturally between two groups of patrollers (~10 minutes apart). They were traveling on the low trail, and the slide did run to the low trail. Another avalanche released next to this one the following day, ~ 3-4' fracture.

I've been looking for a break in the action to get out and do more profiles and pits. I'll post them to NWAC and provide links on TAY if something is really noteworthy. Otherwise, keep checking :http://www.nwac.us/photos/photos.htm
for photos and profiles.

Cheers,

Stimbuck

Quick earnest question - not trying to be obnoxious as I really don't know:

I've seen pictures here and there of people standing under big crowns. Is this safe? Guess it already slid, but that sure is a lot of snow just uphill from you in the picture, and on a slope that is a proven avalanche slope.

Thanks for the post. I was curious about that one since it was mentioned on NWAC. I am assuming that is the same 8' (7.55') crown slide they mentioned. Very dramatic stuff this season.

I've seen pictures here and there of people standing under big crowns. Is this safe? Guess it already slid, but that sure is a lot of snow just uphill from you in the picture, and on a slope that is a proven avalanche slope.

That topic came up in the various advanced avy courses I've taken -- especially since we were treated to so many pics like that! The answer is that if the slope slid like that but the area up above the crown did not go with it, then the bonds keeping it in place must be very strong.
Nevertheless, if I ever got the opportunity to accompany USFS snow rangers in checking out the crown after a big slide, I'm not sure I'd want to test that theory in person!