January 6, 2019

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#PenguinRidge observations today from the #TurnagainArm area of #ChugachStatePark: a few D2-3 avalanches have occurred in the past week and are suspected to be a result of the strong wind around New Year’s. The Penguin Ridge trail is very popular in summer, but during the #snow season it can be extremely dangerous. The #alpine and ridge access trail travels directly up the large #avalanche path that is already this season filled with debris a few hundred feet from the purple ATV trail. Travel along the ridge itself exposes one to a large overhanging cornice and the very large Bird Flats avalanche paths that can send debris across the #SewardHighway and into the ocean. Very advanced levels of #backcountry travel, #mountaineering, #snowpack evaluation, and avalanche assessment skills are required to safely navigate this terrain during the snow season.

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