Observations from Nat Geo

Location Name: 
National Geographic Bowl, Granite Chief
Region: 
Cabin Creek, Deep Creek, or Pole Creek Area
Date and time of observation: 
Mon, 01/29/2018 - 13:10
Location Map: 
United States
39° 11' 55.2876" N, 120° 17' 14.244" W
See map: Google Maps
US


Red Flags: 
Obvious avalanche path
Observation made by: Guide at Alpenglow Expeditions
Snowpit Observations
More detailed information about the snowpack: 

Varied conditions on our tour in the National Geographic bowl today. Lots of evidence of wind was easily observed from the peak, and large wind slabs were present just below ridgeline on all NW-N-NE aspects in this area. The snow is staying remarkably cold and unconsolidated on the high, north, shady aspects. Cornice drops and ski cuts on steap terrain did not show any signs of instability. Minor shooting cracks were observed after agressive kicks on the most obvious wind loaded test slopes. We dug a snow profile to look at the wind slab problem as well as check in on the deeper buried facets. Both were found, but neither showed a willingness to propigate. 

Lower down, all aspects were affected by the warm temps and sun. Roller balls were again observed on steep, solar aspects. 

 

Snowpit or crown profile photo or graph: 
Weather Observations
Blowing Snow: 
Cloud Cover: 
75% of the sky covered by clouds
Air temperature: 
Above Freezing
Wind Speed: 
Calm
Precipitation: 
Air temperature trend: 
Wind Direction: 
Accumulation rate: 
More detailed information about the weather: