WBC: Ski touring above tree line?
Trip date: Wednesday Mar 06, 2024
Submitted by MaSid
Particpants:
Discussion:
Yes, it is possible. But not today, despite being hopeful and motivated. -17 in the parking lot at 8 (warmer than forecast) and mostly plowed already! Access via mountain road, currently in excellent shape with solid grooming and a cm or so of fresh over top (regroomed on return). Good grip with green wax, but no glide. Too much wax maybe? Good travel past the end of mtn rd in an old track up to the pump station, ankle ski pens. LT gear can be used to get to this point. Less than sub-optimal trail breaking past that when not wallowing around brush. Better in the forest edge. Once at 6000 ft the snow started exhibiting signs of the touchier snow pack further west with lots of large settlements, shaking trees 50-100 ft away! Enough to call it a day. Punchy skiing on descent but a glorious day out in full sun and great exercise. Even got to enjoy a spot of lunch with George (mid-way through his circumferential tour) back at the trailhead while we soaked up the sun.