Variable Conditions on Tamarack Peak

Snow conditions on Tamarack ran the gamut. We saw firm uneven snow on scoured E aspects, soft cold snow on some shady N aspects, soft snow on breakable crusts on other northerly aspects, warm but fast snow on supportable crusts on more sheltered open E-SE aspects, warm and sticky snow in other sunny spots, and firm scoured surfaces on exposed NE aspects. In many places, these variable conditions existed within a few feet of each other testing our ability to change technique for each turn. On several occasions, we would make one turn in cold soft snow followed by a turn in breakable crust or rapid slowing as the surface snow became wet and sticky in a sun patch. This wet sticky snow indicated warming conditions, but we did not see any signs of wet snow instabilities during our tour despite full sunshine. 

At the parking lot, comfortable spring-like conditions prevailed and the warm March sunshine counteracted the cool air temperatures. Once we got into near and above treeline the ENE winds increased and we found ourselves seeking sunny sheltered spots to get out of the cold for transitions and breaks. We did notice some wind transport of snow near the ridgelines but very little snow was available for transport and no drifts were forming. 

In addition to our general observations, we also dug a detailed snowpit on a sheltered N aspect. Tests did not indicate any current instability but we did see some weaker snow in the upper snowpack (see snowpit for details).