Feb 2, 2010, Slot Couloir

The slot skied nicely this morning. Lots of cold winter snow back there, all the way down to the basin on the N side of Snoq.

There were some small 'ankle biter' slabs near the top that we cut off the sidewalls. They were pretty small and would quickly break up and slough away. But it was interesting to think what we'd have been dealing with if it had snowed another 4-6 inches or had a little more wind deposition. On the plus side, that new snow and spindrift filled in all the tracks from the weekend's action. No moguls for us!

Snow elsewhere was better than expected - 2-4" of new on a soft skiable crust layer. Turns were pretty smooth even on the S facing stuff.

BTW, the Phantom ascent is melting out in spots down low and there's some hard snow and ice lurking under the recent new snow. It wasn't terrible but it demanded some attention in spots. It may get sportier if things continue to melt out.