We returned today to the same site as the one we visited on Thursday the 30th of December to compare changes in the snowpack over the last few cool clear days. We dug on the slope next to the previous set of tests.

The slab was more faceted and sugary, thus less reactive, than three days ago. The weak layer is still present, but the layers above it have become more alike as they all recrystallize into a collection of layers that are all facets. The weak layer within the windslab is less distinct than it was, and though the surface layers still function as a slab, they are less sensitive.

We did still have a few test slopes where steeper rolls cracked and slid, but most did not. Higher, more exposed slopes were windblasted down to the last melt freeze crust, so the only stability problems there were related to the sharpness of skiers' edges and technique.

Any fresh windslab areas should still be avoided, and the next storm will have a setup of weak facets, icy crust, and surface hoar under it now.

We used the Eaglecrest lifts to speed our climb. The snow on the ski runs is good packed powder with only a few icy spots, and picking our way to the bottom was surprisingly easy even after several day's wear and tear from skier traffic.