Snow report Karwendel, 01/26/2022

Snow condition

The snow depth maps are actually correct and the deepest Karwendel looks very good in terms of snow conditions. Start at 900m in the Tiefkühltal of Hinterriss, easy to ski from the parking lot. Once you have crossed the endless valley, you can finally see that the snow conditions are quite acceptable, even on the steep slopes. The eastern flank of the Schlauchkarkopf is skiable throughout, only the steep traverse in the lowest third of the wall has just enough snow. However, there is probably not much snow on the steep, rocky terrain.

Snow quality

Still surprisingly good powder snow on the north and east sides. On the east side, the sunlight of the last few days has made it much more settled, but at least there's not too much sluff. Overall little wind influence, I would have feared much worse. Nubby powder on the north side, nice to ride. But less good in view of the coming snowfall.

The snowpack made a good impression, but it was also the 4th day of good weather after the snowfall and the eastern flank is sunny until midday, as some spines are more south-east facing. Drift snow could still be a problem on high alpine shady slopes. Otherwise, there is currently nap powder to be found in windless, shady terrain. This may not be the best base for the coming snowfall.

Overall impression

Probably one of the largest skiable flanks in the Karwendel, beautiful spines and good powder snow. By chance, I saw a picture of the flank from afar and, as a lover of spines and steep flanks, I naturally had to see it for myself and set my tracks on the spine. The only drawback is the eternally long ascent through the Johannestal, which means that as a boarder you have to go in and out with skins. Unfortunately, the area is not recommended for downhill ski tourers. Due to the long approach and the deep tracks in the flank, I was quite exhausted at the end, but with a MagicMan before and a look back at the line I had skied after the descent, it was worth every step! #spineslikeinalaskanurfelsiger