Snow report Grisons, 03/08/2014

Snow condition

Overall good snow conditions. Due to the high starting point at over 1800m, relaxed skiing without stone contact was possible. With the weather forecast for this week, sunlit slopes will probably be partially unskiable even at high altitudes.

Snow quality

The snow was much better than expected. We were out quite late and expected to have to turn back. The snow quality remained good until the afternoon. There should still be some snow on the north side in the coming days! Compact old snow cover on the ascent. In the valley, glassy ascent tracks even in the late morning. North-facing powder, partly (in a few places strongly) influenced by wind. Speed powder! Moist in the afternoon when crossing the valley, but no soaked snow, no rotten snow. (On the south side - we weren't there - it was hard in the morning and wet snow in the afternoon).

Warning level 2, rising to 3 in the course of the day. The situation is probably rather complex at the moment. The rise in temperature over the course of the day should definitely be taken into account when choosing a route. The sun is now really strong, as you can clearly see from our faces. From sunlit slopes, we could see some small and medium-sized wet snow slides on steep and rocky terrain, most of which were probably from the previous day. Near the rock faces, there is a constant trickle and splashing is clearly audible. On the north and north-east side, wind influence in the form of drifting snow packs can be seen in terrain close to the crest. These are not always clearly defined, so caution is required when choosing a route. There were no recognizable wind gangs or large cornices.

Overall impression

By far the best touring day of the season so far! Tour, weather, snow - fantastic! (Still not five stars - there has to be a little room for improvement.)