Greetings,
A visiting climber from the UK inquired about the current avalanche conditions in Hyalite Canyon. On the 21st of December 15 inches of snow fell on a weak snow pack with faceted crystals. When combined with windloading from the SE the potential for human triggered avalanches is high.
Routes on the lower andesite cliff band are generally safer - the G1 area is quite safe as are the majority of the climbs on the Hyalite Cliff. Routes on the pyroclastic matrix are at greater risk. The Scepter and Mummy are threatened from a large collection zone above, as is Dribbles and Zach Attack. While Cleo's and Twin do not have large collection zones above them, there is a reason for the paucity of vegetation below.
Climbs in Flanders are also susceptible to avalanche. Be safe out there!
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Dribbles Avalanche Hazard
To clarify,
"The Dribbles" has little to no avalanche hazard from above as it is a spring that pours from the trees. On the other hand, the gully to the right containing "Silken Falls" and "The Climb Above Dribbles" has significant avy concern as does the gully to the left, "Avalanche Gulch," which is the usual descent from Dribbles.
A few other "safe" climbs from avy concern are the Champagne climbs in Flanders, Palisade Falls (although it is not likely in with this warmer weather), Slight of Hand, Alpha and Omega, Hangover and Upper Greensleeves (although the slopes below can get loaded if it's nasty).
Happy Hunting.
with all the new snow that's
with all the new snow that's coming down outside my window maybe another hyalite specific report is in order. I'll be up there tomorrow and the next day, but'll be staying to stuff with low hazards from above. Eveyone stay safe and post up if you note something interesting.
Slide below Cleo's
Hello All,
On sunday, my partners and I walked over a pretty big debris field just to the right of Cleo's, and saw the debris of another slide in a neighboring gully. Also, we witnessed several point-release slides.
Carry avi gear and be cognizant of the terrain that you are on.