Snow conditions speculations

[Bumpsis]

So I'm looking at the weather forecast for the next few days - I'm thinking about weekend plans. I had a blast at Burke this past weekend and thinking about going back.

Looks like we'll have mixed ppt, some rain, some sleet, temps dipping below freezing and cycling back up into the 40's for the next few days.

I'd like to engage the collective snow/weather knowledge on this board as to what to expect for surfaces this coming Saturday and Sunday up north. Bulletproof white shell covering the trails or sun softened mush with possible corn?

I think it will be soft, but I have been wrong before (many times). What do you guys think?

 

[Greg]

Pick your destination wisely. Look for an area where the forecast calls for freezing temps at night with temps hitting the 40's during the day. This equals spring corn. I'm always amazed at how quickly a run can go from frozen granular/hard pack to corn. It's usually within only a few minutes during the 10 - 11 am hour. Sunshine accelerates the process. Once you get daytime highs into the 50's you run the risk of spring mush which some folks don't like (I don't mind it). Enjoy your weekend!

 

[goldsbar]

Spring is funny like that. One run out of the sun might be diamond hard boilerplate while another run might be nice corn. It's not just choosing the area, it's choosing the correct parts within the area at the right time of day.

My prediction - all three! Unlike mid-Winter or powder days, don't rush to be the first one on the chair. Should be good.

 

[downhill04]

I am heading up to Burke this weekend and I am not sure what to expect for snow conditions. The weather report I saw this morning was calling for a 40% change for showers during the day on Saturday. Even if the NFP holds off I am assuming there will be cloud cover most of the day which would slow the change over to corn.

That said pond skimming weekend at Burke is a lot of fun. If the conditions are not that great, the atmosphere/party around Mid-Burke should help raise your spirits.

I’m crossing my fingers that this potential NFP holds off. It would be a shame to get wet before falling in the pond

 

[The Sneak]

I'm going to Okemo on sunday. Any idea what to expect there?

 

[SKIQUATTRO]

it'll be 83/64 in Orlando this weekend...wish i was skiing...might have to hit Blizzard Beach!!

 

[Greg]

Spring is funny like that. One run out of the sun might be diamond hard boilerplate while another run might be nice corn. It's not just choosing the area, it's choosing the correct parts within the area at the right time of day.

Very good point. Aspect is important as well.

 

[Birdman829]

Wherever you go, don't worry about being on the first chair. Give the sun some time to soften everything up.

 

[bobbutts]

Some places with significant southern exposure:
Bromley - the whole place
Waterville Valley - Sunnyside
Killington - Various, tons of exposures and elevations.

I'm sure there are some others, not many more off the top of my head though.