Jasper Visitor Safety flew from Jasper townsite down to Mt. Wilson today. Evidence of a previous natural avalanche cycle was observed with slides up to size 3.5. Notably, some avalanches have gone full path and broken mature timber. The park has received up to 100 cm of snow in the past week, with snowfall totals already matching amounts typically seen in April.

Of the slides observed, many have been failing to ground. There have also been numerous natural avalanches below tree line both in the Maligne Lake area as well as along the Icefields Parkway. Many of the slides in the Colin range appear to have been solar triggered.

On December 19th, Jasper National Park conducted explosive control for highway 93N and had numerous results up to size 4.

Overall, this has been an exceptional—and record-breaking—start to the ski season. However, these conditions point to an increased likelihood of large, destructive avalanches this winter. This is a critical time to remain vigilant and avoid complacency. This season is shaping up to be different.

The skiing in sheltered tree line areas is excellent at the moment. The Alpine has begun to see more wind effect, reducing the ski quality and creating new wind slabs.

Happy Holidays!