Thursday's storm event freshened things up nicely and we found good turning and riding on our tour into Gold Basin yesterday. Above treeline, south and west facing terrain is pretty wind blasted and ridge crests are scoured. Below treeline, those same aspects took on some sun yesterday, and many will be lightly crusted this morning. North facing slopes offer the best snow, but this is also where the wind has drifted it into slabs 8"-18" deep. We didn't find the problem to be very widespread, but there are plenty of fat, pillowy looking areas out there. I suspect many folks will be setting their sights on the high peaks this weekend. If you venture into high, alpine terrain, be sure you know how to identify and avoid unstable areas of wind drifted snow where even a small avalanche could have serious consequences.

As the day heats up, the recent snow will be at it's most vulnerable for loose, wet avalanches. Signs of instability include rollerballs, pinwheels, and sloppy wet snow. Stay off of, and out from under steep slopes where these signs are present.

And finally, cornices have grown huge in some areas and are teetering on the edge. Give them a wide berth as we have at least one report of one breaking off and triggering an avalanche.