Professional Observation
Basic Information
Observation Details
Observation Date:
February 4, 2022 - February 4, 2022Submitted:
February 4, 2022Observer:
Jonathan Tuttle | Pro ObserverZone or Region:
Mammoth LakesLocation:
Sherwins (The Perch Trees)- Well developed facets, enjoyable skiing above 8200ftSigns of Unstable Snow
Recent Avalanches?
None ObservedCracking?
None ExperiencedCollapsing?
None ExperiencedSnow Stability
Stability Rating:
Very GoodConfidence in Rating:
HighStability Trend:
SteadyKey Points
Toured from the propane tanks parking area off of Sherwin Creek Road up to the base of the perch outcropping on the Sherwin ridge in search of some softer snow. Skied the North-facing, moderately spaced trees on the way down and here is what I found:
- No signs of snowpack instability at all elevations and aspects traveled today
- A mix of facets and breakable wind crusts near the ridge between 9600ft-9800ft
- 5cm of fist hardness facets relatively uniform throughout the North aspects on elevations between 8200ft and 9600ft
- Variable surface conditions below 8200ft with a widespread, supportable melt freeze crust
- Ski crampons were not needed with reasonable route finding as facets provided excellent skinning conditions in this location
- 0.5cm surface hoar in N facing areas within drainages and depressions below 8500ft
- Boot pen of 15cm and ski pen of 5cm @9000ft
- The facets skied nicely above 8200ft and I would say it was some of the best turns I’ve had in the past few weeks
Media
Advanced Information
Weather Summary
Cloud Cover:
ClearTemperature:
28Wind:
Calm , E
14:30 @ 8150ft, 33F, clear sky, no wind
15:00 @ 8500ft, 26F, clear sky, light E wind
15:30 @ 9050ft, 23F, clear sky, light E wind
16:00 @9800ft, 23F, clear sky, light E wind
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