Variable Snow Conditions in the Hidden Peak Area

Snow conditions varied throughout the Hidden Peak area.  At the highway new snow was limited to 2-3".  Near the summit new snow varied with wind loading and averaged 12".  Snow remained unconsolidated and cold into the afternoon on sheltered aspects. Aspects that received sun through the partly cloudy skies became wet and heavy.  Cornice developement along the main ridge was minimal.  Ski kicks targeting areas with oven sized cornices produced no signs of instability.  A few loose snow slides and sluffs were triggered by snowboarders in steep sheltered terrain. Looking West into Desolation large crowns were visibile including one substantial crown in the foreground of Dicks.