Chinook/Naches aspect hunting June 5, 2010
6/15/10
WA Cascades West Slopes South (Mt Rainier)
1474
2
Headed up to Chinook Pass with Rob and Bruce to enjoy the weather window. Started out ~9am from the upper lot toward Naches to find some semblance of corn snow, firm skinning in the shade quickly transitioned to unconsolidated snow in the sun.
First south-east aspect was reactive in the top 2-4", just looking at it set off slow hissers. We cut the slope and the bed surface skied nicely.
(click to enlarge)
Skinning around the back we saw the results of a recent cornice failure leading to an impressive avalanche:
Close up view of fracture, ranging from 4-7 feet (click to enlarge)
Parts of west and north aspects had a mix of protocorn to slow slush without the reactive surfaceSome layer. Decent skiing aided by fat skis, dodging debris laid down during the midweek's rain events.
(click to enlarge)
The snow pack is fat right now, should be continued good skiing If it's ever possible to a couple of freeze thaw cycles.
First south-east aspect was reactive in the top 2-4", just looking at it set off slow hissers. We cut the slope and the bed surface skied nicely.
(click to enlarge)
Skinning around the back we saw the results of a recent cornice failure leading to an impressive avalanche:
Close up view of fracture, ranging from 4-7 feet (click to enlarge)
Parts of west and north aspects had a mix of protocorn to slow slush without the reactive surfaceSome layer. Decent skiing aided by fat skis, dodging debris laid down during the midweek's rain events.
(click to enlarge)
The snow pack is fat right now, should be continued good skiing If it's ever possible to a couple of freeze thaw cycles.
WOW, the avy was huge. Thanks for the photos.
Fun day skiing with you G.
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