Snow report Lech Valley, 01/12/2020

Snow condition

On the tour really usable snow base (3 stars, outside rather 1-2), not much in terms of quantity, but everything covered and so well set that you don't break through. In the forest below it is of course thin at 1200, but on the east side it went immediately without any problems with quasi free route choice up to the top. But it doesn't hurt to watch out for bumps.

Snow quality

Like yesterday, much better than expected. When do you have firn and set powder just a few meters apart? Shady north, sometimes really nice to ski. As soon as the wind comes into play or the sun disappears, there's a really nasty cap on it.

Super-safe impression today. We even descended much steeper (>45 degrees) to the left of the actual gully. Lots of drizzle in the shade and surface frost towards the valley. Where the sun really beats down, sliding snow avalanches are definitely an issue. Small chutes were visible.

Overall impression

Finally did the Fernpassrinne in very pleasant conditions on the ascent. It's important not to start too early for soft snow, but also not too late so that the firn snow doesn't pick up again in the shade.
Something is definitely still possible in the Lechtal. But a look into the new world was rather gruesome!