Mt Plewman East Ridge conditions

A good overview found on the CAC site:

Dug a profile yesterday below the east peak of Mt. Plewman in the Rossland Range (we call this sub-peak "Clearcut"). Elevation 2000m. East aspect. HS 185 cm. Sub-alpine trees.

3 major layers were identified: 

- 20 below surface: Storm snow  sheared easily (#6) below a thin raincrust (5mm)

- 60 cm: Moderate/hard shear popped cleanly on surface hoar. This layer worries me most should a slide step down to this level. 

- the older (dec 14th?) layer was identified but did not react in this location. 

Skiing was OK in trees on moderate slopes. Variable conditions. High winds have created stiff windslab below ridgetops and in open slopes on south and east aspects. Winds seem to have funneled up the steep north facing gullies strippng them of any new snow and exposing the rain crust :=(

We had good visibility but could not see any signs of avalanches on nearby peaks. The backcountry was eerily quiet. The CAA's warning to stay out of the backcountry this week-end seems to be working.