The ACMG Training and Assessment Program Guide Training Touring course spent 6 days ski touring in the Whistler-Blackcomb and Duffy Lake Road regions between Jan 31 and Feb 5.

Weather

The week started with tapering Northerly outflow winds and cool temps. On Feb 1-3 we experienced mod - strong consistent Southerly winds with mild temps. A pulse of precipitation arrived with up to 20 cm on Feb 2-3 accompanied by strong to extreme southerly winds

Snowpack

Recent storm snow accompanied by moderate to strong southerly flow is quickly settling and bonding well to old surfaces. Around Whistler, several crusts mid-pack currently appear to be bridging the basal facets. However, in the Duffey Region the basal facets are still a concern. Coverage remains thin and faceted around some rocky features in the alpine. While the seasonal snowpack is thin, cornices are large. Glacial coverage is very low for this time of year and some slots remain open and visible. This trend continues below treeline and cautious skiing is required to avoid hazards.

Danger Rating (Jan 31- Feb 5)

Low hazard conditions early in the week (Jan 31-Feb 2) allowed confidence to increase as we spent more time in terrain. Moderate to extreme variable winds combined with ~20 cm new snow midweek caused a brief spike in hazard to considerable in Alp and TL due to storm and wind slabs, but had reduced down to moderate hazard by Feb 5.

Terrain Use

Duffy-Cayoosh, Whistler Backcountry, Blackcomb Backcountry
Skied all aspects primarily travelling in tree line and alpine elevations. Generally used supported terrain features. Extra caution was taken in lee and cross loaded areas.