The problem we have this winter is we aren't getting consistent snowfall. Days and days of cold clear weather back in November and December caused our base to become weak and faceted. Over Christmas, we loaded this weak layer (storm snow), and two people tragically died from this setup. As the snow settled and adjusted, this weak layer became more and more used to the weight above, and therefore, it's becoming harder and harder to trigger. The last avalanche we saw on this layer was January 16th.

For me, there is too much faceted snow in the snowpack to trust it. I do not like faceted snow. It's unpredictable and scary. I am going to remain patient and continue to avoid steep slopes facing the north side of the compass. If you choose to ride that terrain, set yourself up for success and consider the consequences (like trees). Travel one at a time. Avoid steep, shallow, rocky terrain where it is more likely to trigger a deeper slab avalanche 2-4 feet deep.