Example of a thin and weak snowpack

Example of a thin and weak snowpack

Thin snow equals weak snow.  This photo was taken near Big Sky at the head of Middle Basin on a broad planar slope which faces south and southeast.  Without a significant load of new snow, triggerring an avalanche in these areas isn't likely but should be considered.  Stability test results on the facets were CT20 Q1 and ECTP20.  Find a deeper snowpack, and you will find much stronger snow. Photo: GNFAC

Northern Madison, 2011-01-26