First skier was descending skiers left of the slide when it occurred. The second skier heard a loud collapse when the avalanche was triggered. First skier then skinned back up to partner on flat area above and they descended the ridge, their orignial route.
Avalanche: Girdwood
Location: Ragged Top
We accessed the Ragged Top subridge via California Creek.
Forecaster Comments
| Trigger | Skier | Remote Trigger | 0 |
| Avalanche Type | Soft Slab | Aspect | South |
| Elevation | 3000ft | Slope Angle | 35deg |
| Crown Depth | 3ft | Width | 350ft |
| Vertical Run | 900ft |
Avalanche Details
This slide was triggered remotely by a skier descending low-angle terrain approximately 200 yards away. The slide ran roughly 400' vertical feet.
Obvious signs of instability
| Recent Avalanches? | Yes |
| Collapsing (Whumphing)? | Yes |
| Cracking (Shooting cracks)? | Yes |
Observer Comments
Numerous other natural slides visible throughout the area on a wide variety of aspects and slope angles.
Weather
Clear and calm, temps in the lower 30's F.
Snow surface
Dry boot-top powder and windblown snow.
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