Professional Observation - Sub Shields, southern Glacier Park

Location Name: 
Professional Observation - Sub Shields, southern Glacier Park
Region: 
Glacier National Park - Southern Lewis Range
Date and time of observation: 
Sat, 01/14/2017 - 14:10
Location Map: 


Observation made by: Public
Snowpit Observations
More detailed information about the snowpack: 

Toured up the SE ridge of Sub Shields (Peak 6996) today. Encountered only light winds and observed minimal wind transport on our tour. But could see steady plumes of snow coming off Running Rabbit and other taller peaks to the west that were loading easterly aspects. Noted the recent surface hoar development in tree glades sheltered from the winds, especially between elevations of 5000-6500 feet. Some surface hoar crystals were up  to 4 mm in size. Was able to ski cut one very small (tabletop-size) wind slab just off the summit of Sub Shields on the NE aspect, but it arrested after sliding only 4-6 inches. Skied down the treed ridge located on skier's right-hand side of the obvious avalanche path that descends to the valley between Sub Shields and Elk Mountain. Great powder skiing. No avalanche activity observed.

Weather Observations
Blowing Snow: 
Yes
Cloud Cover: 
25% of the sky covered by clouds
Air temperature: 
Below Freezing
Wind Speed: 
Moderate (Small trees sway)
Air temperature trend: 
Static
Wind Direction: 
West
Activity: 
Skiing