ACMG MOUNTAIN CONDITIONS REPORT SUMMARY FOR THE ROCKIES AND COLUMBIA MOUNTAINS ISSUED May 26th, 2016

In the Rockiest this past week people have been getting out between storms for alpine climbing in areas such as the Columbia Icefields. Reports from both Athabasca and Andromeda found decent travel, but it is definitely still wintery above 2800m which is true for the Rockies as a whole. An avalanche fatality in Kananaskis Country this past week is an unfortunate reminder that many features in the alpine still hold enough snow to avalanche, and that snowpack and terrain choices should be evaluated throughout the day. The front ranges are drying out fast from storms last week and rock climbing is in full force. Numerous natural rockfalls from spring thaw have been observed in the front ranges of the Bow Valley and Jasper, which is typical for this time of year.

Not many reports from the Bugaboos or the Rogers Pass, but some South facing ridges had been climbed as of last week. I'm sure there is a lot of very slippery quartzite and granite left in the alpine in those regions, and the big peaks will still be full winter conditions.

The forecast looks less than optimal for the weekend, with cool temperatures and rain and snow at higher elevations, especially West of the divide. This will add to any avalanche concerns in the short term. So far, the best chance may be in the front ranges, but don't hold your breath!

Cheers
Steve Holeczi
ACMG Mountain Guide