Burner region on 02.01.2022 | Benji_01

Snow condition

First of all: the first few meters of ascent, with short interruptions, are actually easy to manage on skis, but unfortunately you have to carry your skis downhill. Overall, there is very little snow for the time of year, at all exposures and altitudes. Above 1,600 meters, there is also a continuous snow cover on the south side, which can be used well for both the ascent and the descent. On extremely steep sunny slopes, there are some large stones sticking out, which you should definitely bear in mind when descending, as there are of course one or two sharks lurking under the slush.

Snow quality

The snow quality varies greatly depending on the exposure, altitude and time of day. We started at the parking lot at around 7.30 a.m. and actually had a fairly usable frozen surface on the ascent in the forest. Further up the slope (sun from 8 a.m., approx. 1,800 to 2,500 meters) you could see a light cover with wet snow underneath. It did not freeze through here at night. Nevertheless, this altitude range was easy to ski except for the uppermost section of the slope. It wasn't real firn, of course, but slush snow is probably the best you can get at the moment.

In terms of the risk of snow slabs and drifting snow, it is actually relatively safe to be out and about in the east to south-east exposition at the moment. There were no drift snow packs or similar to be seen and no other danger signs for snow slabs. The greater danger is currently posed by loose snow slides from sunny terrain as well as wet snow slides and sliding snow. These danger spots have mostly already cleared, but you should not stay in sunny terrain unnecessarily late.

Overall impression

It is of course difficult to find good snow at the moment. In the southern sector, however, it is possible to find spring-like conditions if you plan your time reasonably well. Coupled with the beautiful landscape, no other tourers and great weather, this naturally makes for a relaxed and enjoyable day of touring in the Wipptal. The last 200 meters in altitude to the summit (2728 m) we simply gave ourselves a break in view of the slush. All in all, we finally need fresh snow again so that the PowderGuide doesn't turn into a firn guide or piste guide...