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</style><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_1681A555">Winter is still in full effect at and above treeline. Winter riding conditions come with winter avalanche problems and now you need to be your own avalanche forecaster.  </span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_71516F31">Here are a few things to think about:</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_1681A555">Until we get into the melt/freeze cycle, most of the avalanche problems are relegated to the upper portion of the snowpack.  Storm slab, wind slabs and cornices remain primary concerns.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_1681A555">There is plenty of snow available for transport up high which has been exposed to significant amounts of wind.  You may find wind slabs further down the slope than you expect this late in the season.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_1681A555">Storm snow falling on crusts often produces a poor bond, at least initially.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_1681A555">The long days and strong late April sun affect snow surprising quickly.  It’s probably a good idea to steer clear of features where dry snow is receiving direct sun, especially for the first time.</span></p><p class="p_CC664AAA"><span class="s_3FE45715">Lots of quick pits can help you put together the overall pattern of the zone that you’re recreating in.  If its been awhile since you were in the snow, start small and gain confidence in the snowpack before you get too ambitious.</span><span class="s_AA239A9B" /></p>