Gray Butte

Observations on Gray Butte:

• DATE: 20200112 - 1400 hours
• ELEVATION: 8,040 ft
• SKY: Obscured
• PRECIPITATION: < 1 cm/hr
• BLOWING SNOW: Not much snow available for transport in wind exposed areas
• TEMPERATURE: ≈20°F
• WIND: Moderate, west
• RED FLAGS: N/A
• BOOT/SKI PENETRATION: 0-6 inches / 0-3 inches

Small, isolated, wind slabs and cornices were encountered that were unreactive or stubborn to trigger.  Ridgelines and start zones are scoured. No notable ski cut tests, column tests or extended column test results were seen (ECTN 12 ↓ 20 cm). Upper snow pack is a mix of crusts and 1F density snow with a bit F snow on top. Overall the snowpack is stable with no obvious signs of instabilty. If you encounter the 12/19 rain crust near treeline, be prepared for a hard, slick climb.

Surface conditions are variable. Look for the best snow below treeline on low angle terrain in wind and sun protected areas.