Ski Conditions

1 photos

Parker Ridge-Cold snow 2000m

Park Ridge/ East Ridge of Hilda Peak

Ski Conditions

Looking for cold snow during today's Chinook, we sought refuge in the higher altitudes of the Icefields Parkway near the Banff/Jasper NP boundary. Driving the Icefields Parkway this morning at 8am the air temps on the highway were +5 to +9 all the way to the Saskatchewan Crossing; +1 at Rampart; +2 at the Weeping wall; and finally -2 after the bend at Nigel Creek and parking for Parker Ridge.

Weather obs were steady-moderate NW winds gusting to high with and obscured sky, snowing S1. This did not relent until 11:30am. Later the sky parted and became overcast and then broken even a few shots of sun. The cloud deck lifted to 3500+m. The winds began to settle after 1:00pm and became Moderate to Light at 2200m and Light below 2000m. Snow rate reduced to S-1. HST 4-5cm by 3pm.

BTL the Surface form was soft and uniform drifted maritime snow with 10-30cm ski pen on a supportive base. In the Alpine surfaces were scoured. On ridges significant satrugi erosional features were a factor (10cm-to 60cm in extreme cases). Between the ridges we found 5-20cm soft-snow in the gully features and good skiing. NTL was the transition.

We route to the "summit" of Parker Ridge followed approximately the summer trail following a rib of low angle 25 degree terrain to the saddle. A logical more fall line descent from the summer trail saddle provided a good run and beta for yoyos. It was easy to avoid complex terrain and enjoy a great day in the Canadian Rockies. Great views of the Mount Willis, Big Bend. Athabasca, Saskatchewan Glacier.

Be safe out there. More Pow Tomorrow!

On The Map

These observations and opinions are those of the person who submitted them. The ACMG and its members take no responsibility for errors, omissions, or lapses in continuity. Conditions differ greatly over time and space due to the variable nature of mountain weather and terrain. Application of this information provides no guarantee of increased safety. Do not use the Mountain Conditions Report as the sole factor in planning trips or making decisions in the field.