One of the many benefits to backcountry skiing in the Pacific Northwest (besides tons of snow and huge amounts of terrain) is we don’t have to worry AS MUCH about hoar frost. Which is why, while living in Whitefish, Montana, last winter, I was always a bit nervous ski touring. Although I wouldn’t say Whitefish (and nearby Glacier National Park) is a true continental snowpack, much of the snow that falls contains less moisture than here. Furthermore, calm, clear and bitterly cold nights are far more common, which in turn leads to the formation of hoar frost. This of course means super sketchy backcountry skiing. Case in point…
Nasty nasty hoar frost
We encountered this layer of hoar frost during a ski tour just outside Glacier National Park. Fortunately we uncovered this while traversing a pretty mellow slope. Regardless, our goal for the day was quickly modified and we stuck to some safer slopes.
It should be noted though that this layer was very localized. Matter of fact, it was present for only about 50 vertical yards, right below a small cornice on an area of the slope that didn’t get hammered by the wind.
It’s safe to say if you’re into ski touring, you’ve heard of hoar frost. It’s one of the main factors in avalanches and one of many reasons to keep on eye on conditions throughout the year in your area. Go to our Avalanche website page to find a link to your local avalanche center.
