Ruby

Went searching for bad snow and spectacular views. Found both, with a bit of preserved powder as a bonus. Always thankful for a clear winter day in the Cascades!

On conditions: Started skinning at 3k. We were able to ski down to 3k but the last 1k was thin coverage with a lot of downed trees ready to force a somersault. Breakable crust in the open and heavy in the trees from about 3,500'-4,500'. Found some preserved powder in sheltered areas near treeline. Above treeline the snow was wind-hammered. 

Larches, Ross Lake, and Hozomeen:

This scene looks so natural; it’s hard to imagine that before the construction of Ross Dam this valley was not a lake at all, but a free-flowing river surrounded by ancient forest. We have a lot of environmental problems now but it’s comforting that chopping down and flooding old-growth forest isn’t on the table anymore.

Davis, Shuksan, and the Southern Pickets:

Izzy and Jack approaching the summit:

Logan lurking way back there:

Colonial-Pyramid avalanche path: 

A mile wide and a mile tall. This thing is terrifying.