Snow report Upper Black Forest, 12/01/2017
Opening of the season in the Vosges - Gaschney - Le Hohneck - Frankenthal.
Upper Black Forest
Snow condition
Snow quality
Overall impression
Snow condition
Quite good snow conditions in the Vosges for December 1st. Skiable up to approx. 900 m, 20 cm there. Only 5-10 on the Hohneck, the wind has blown it all away. In the more sheltered areas easily 50 cm, sometimes (e.g. in the forest) up to a meter. Generally quite inhomogeneous due to the wind and the handbrake was never fully released. But more than usable as a base.
Snow quality
Nice and fluffy on top all day, very good. A slightly icy crust underneath, which came through from time to time. Then heavier on the bottom during the day, hence 3 stars.
Risks
Quite tricky. We were aware of this, noticed the very inhomogeneous snow depths and saw the mighty cornices. Nevertheless, we were tempted to head into the Couloir du Falimont (35° at the top), which was loaded with drifting snow. Visibility was so-so, but it was just opening up, which increased our urge to ski in. When we "slid in", there was a 50 m wide snow slab with a 20-30 cm edge about 100-150 m into flatter terrain. Fortunately, nothing happened, but this was a more than impressive warning and a "wake-up call" for the coming season. Honestly, I didn't really need it... in hindsight, it was a pretty stupid move.
Overall impression
Nice first day of the season in the Vosges despite a slab fall. That was a lesson for us, take care!
Comments
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