Zoa Backcountry Skiing

Map for Mountain Information Network report: Zoa Backcountry Skiing

Snow conditions

Riding quality was:
OK
Snow conditions were:
  • Deep powder
  • Heavy
We rode:
  • Mellow slopes
  • Open trees

Information

The day was:
  • Stormy

Comments

BC Ski Guides - Backcountry Nomads trip to Coquihalla.

Stormy day in the Coquihalla with moderate gusting strong SW winds. Snowing 1 cm per hour for most of the day.

Skiing was OK in sheltered areas above 1600m on north aspect (off Zoa lessor and main), highly wind affected poor ski quality in exposed terrain. We were able to skin up from the parking area. Pipeline trail access was ok going uphill, however going downhill required caution due to heavy wet snow and poor coverage.

No new avalanches observed natural or from skier traffic. Skied terrain up to 30deg between 1600 and 1800m on N aspect. Test profile at 1800m N aspect: HS 151cm, 55cm F-4F over a 1.5cm thick MFCR. CTE (5) RP down 20cm on density change. No results from tests on crust layer down 55cm.