Snow report North chain, 03/04/2018

Snow condition

There is still a lot of snow at higher altitudes. A lot has already melted further down, although the snow on the forest paths is very compact/icy and is therefore holding up surprisingly well. A 3-person descent is still just about possible, but you won't be able to avoid carrying racks on the 2-person descent.

Snow quality

Found a bit of good firn that turns directly into wet snow. Timing for the descent and exposure is crucial: departure at around 13:30 from 2430m. The upper part on the south-west side has just been firned up and is easy to ski. From the middle, the exposure changes to south/south-east and the snow was already very wet there. Earlier descent recommended. Without the strong wind, it would have firned up even earlier, but the north side was still powdery snow, albeit with a lot of wind influence!

Pay attention to the daily increase in avalanche danger on the south side. A little bit of wet snow has slid down with us and the foehn has blown some snow into the north-facing exposures. Also, there are huge cornices on the ridge to the south. It can't hurt to keep your distance.

Overall impression

There is a lot of snow on the Innsbruck via ferrata. The steel cables are only occasionally above the snow in short places. Due to the loose snow and the invisible steel cable, it is definitely advisable to take your own rope.
The tour was a beautiful and challenging experience. The ascent was fun, but the descent could have been better.