From our friends at the Gallatin National Forest Avalanche Center:
Starting Friday afternoon, we have a series of warm days with a mix of sun and clouds. While we are unsure about the exact timing and certainty of wet snow avalanches impacting the Sourdough Trail, they should be on your radar Friday afternoon through the weekend.
Times of increased concern:
1. Times with above-freezing temperatures under sunny skies. Afternoons are most concerning. Morning and evening skis should be fine.
2. During precipitation events with liquid snow (aka rain).
Here's what to do:
1. Read the daily avalanche forecast for the most up-to-date conditions (www.mtavalanche.com).
2. Ski with a partner during periods of increased concern.
3. Small wet snow avalanches and cinnamon roll-like pinwheels of wet snow are early signs that the snowpack is becoming less stable. If you see small wet snow avalanches coming from cut banks or steep slopes above the trail and hitting the road, this is a sign that larger ones could follow. This is a good time to start heading back toward the trailhead (or ski in areas without steep slopes above you).
Dave Zinn from the Gallatin National Forest Avalanche Center explains why some of the slopes in Sourdough are concerning this winter:
Sat, February 22
10 am - 1 pm
Stop by and see our trail ambassadors at the Sourdough trailhead. Get a trail membership (pass). Current trail members: swing by and pick up your ski ties! Volunteers needed!
Friday, February 28
5 pm at Sunset Hills
BSF's community race series concludes with a skiathlon (X-Games style, with a few obstacles thrown in). Half the race is skate style, half the race classic. Race it all solo, or team up with a partner.
Friends,
We get to enjoy 80+ km of BSF Winter Trails because it's a true community effort. People like you chip in to support the cause. If you love these trails, support them with a trail membership and/or donation. Let's keep the good times and the groomers rolling.
Individual Annual Membership: $75
Family Annual Membership: $150
Gold Annual Membership: $300
*We know everyone has different circumstances. If these levels don't work for you, make a donation at an amount that is meaningful to you.
Here's how we're looking as of January 28. BSF relies on trail memberships to support about 50% of our $200,000 budget each year. We still have a little ways to go to fund the remainder of the winter season.
