Snow report Upper Valais, 01/05/2019

Snow condition

Start at 1300 directly next to the cross-country ski trail, which is already heavily used, with old snow. The snow line in Goms is lower than in the rest of Valais at an altitude of approx. 1000 meters.

Snow quality

Difficulties are already apparent on the ascent, as the track is icy and slippery up to 2000 meters altitude, above that the wind has raged and there are accumulations where you get the feeling of powder. The descent through the forest, which is up to 40° steep, shows me all the technical weaknesses that need to be tackled this winter. Rutted, frozen over and crumbly. A struggle. At the top, 1 turn of pow is possible in the domed terrain.

The SLF issues a 2, it's snowing lightly but not effectively, so the avalanche danger doesn't change throughout the day. Drift snow packs are clearly visible above the tree line.

Overall impression

This forest has potential! Otherwise, quite a nice atmosphere with snowfall in the forest and solitude on a vacation Saturday. Spot to remember for crowded days. Snow quality just shows me that *sh*t*fck* I still have some work to do snow-wise before I'm cruising smoothly through the forest. The pannache at the bottom rewards me!