Weather conditions across the Interior and Rocky Mountain regions were generally unsettled over the past week, with scattered amounts of light snow and cool temperatures dominating the higher elevations. The weather is deteriorating significantly right now (Thursday evening), as a strong upslope storm moves into the eastern side of the mountains. Expect up to 20 cm of snow at higher elevations in Banff Park for the start of the weekend, and Kananaskis Country will probably see the same. Areas to the north and west will be better, although not awesome. However, valley bottom highs of 15-20 degrees are expected in the BC Interior near Golden and Revelstoke – so warmer and less precipitation there.

Expect winter conditions in all alpine areas this weekend with the new snow in the forecast. The old snowpack is well settled with no significant instabilities, but watch the bond of this new snow to old, where it’s likely that small windslabs will develop in isolated areas (gullies, behind ridge crests, etc). The snowpack remains deep at higher elevations, and melt freeze conditions are key to fast travel. Several reports this past week indicated excellent travel on foot on frozen crusts.

Ice climbing might still be found by keeners in alpine, north facing areas. Slipstream looks to be huge and blue; probably climbable for a few weeks to come should the weather cooperate.

Reports of good travel on trails and dry rock at lower elevations will change this weekend with the new snow, but crags on the western side of the ranges should be ok. Longer rock routes on the bigger cliffs like Yamnuska or Castle Mountain need a sunny aspect, realizing that shady areas and descent gullies are probably still packed with snow and ice. Peaks like Mt. Louis are still have significant snow on them, and trails near treeline are melting and muddy.

Considering all of this, and the forecast – looks like a weekend for low elevation, non-technical stuff. Let the bad weather pass and then plan on some sun exposed rock climbing, muddy hiking or high elevation powder skiing for Sunday. The weather looks to be improving daily over the coming week, with highs reaching 20 by mid week.

Grant Statham
ACMG Mountain Guide

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