So far through this COVID-19 pandemic, Juneau has proven itself as a pretty good place to be. Our infection rates haven’t exploded yet, and we are surrounded by opportunities for healthy outdoor recreation that stays within the guidelines for social distancing.
We are particularly lucky to have such a deep mountain snowpack from this year’s heavy snowfall, leaving us with plenty of options for fun, safe exercise out on the snow; on foot, motor, slideyboards or however you choose to recreate.
Although it was unfortunate that Eaglecrest had to close three weeks early on such a banner snow year, Juneau residents are privileged to still have the opportunity to use Fish Creek Road to access higher elevations for mountain adventures. Everything within the ski area boundaries is now considered “backcountry,” as there are no ski patrollers mitigating hazards, and no resources standing by. Everyone who chooses to get out in the hills anywhere in Juneau is doing so at their own risk, thus greatly increasing the numbers of inexperienced and untrained backcountry users out there.
I work as an Avalanche Technician for AEL&P, and also spend almost every day that I am not working, recreating in the mountains. As I take daily risks on snow, I realize that I am in a unique position to share some thoughts on snow safety. Here are three tips for people taking risks on snow this spring:
■ Remember that we are in a health care crisis. Getting injured is a possibility every single time we go out into the mountains. With resources being diverted to help with the COVID-19 pandemic, even our local rescue teams are operating at reduced capacity. The hospital is or may soon be overwhelmed by more important concerns than injuries; don’t be the jerk who adds stress to responders who are already being stretched thin. And of course, Medivac to Seattle or Anchorage should not be considered an option for the same reason.
■ Avalanche hazard has been increasing. We have been blessed with a relatively stable snowpack for the past couple months, mainly due to the consistency of cooler temperatures and steady snowfall. Our mountain snowpacks are deeper than normal, and with this depth comes uncertainty. Unstable layers still exist in the snow, and will be stressed by the added heat that comes with spring. This heat comes in the form of sun, rain, and even wet snow. Every year, season snowpacks are flushed down the mountains during springtime. Since we have so much more snow than usual, the likelihood for large avalanches is higher this year.
■ You have the power to choose where you want to be. Avalanches can be avoided. By identifying slopes that are steep enough to slide — 30-50 degrees — and maintaining a respectful distance, you can still recreate in the mountains without being exposed to avalanche terrain. Some of the most experienced snow sliders in town are scaling way back on slope angles and exposure these days, given the current circumstances. I am striving to do the same, although I admit that it is hard to do sometimes. With such a great snowpack, we are all seeing routes and lines that have never looked so good, and perhaps won’t ever again look as good as they do right now! But we all need to keep in mind that there are also tons of lower-risk options that are riding better than ever as well. We can still take advantage of this epic snow year without exposing ourselves to unnecessary danger.
Lastly, remember that it doesn’t take an avalanche to get hurt. Even if the snow appears to be stable, the human factor always allows for the possibility of mistakes. Even small injuries in the backcountry can put a burden on our health care system, which puts the entire community at risk right now. In Juneau, we are lucky to still have access to healthy and fun recreation. Consider the bigger picture in your terrain choices, as injuries are not healthy nor fun. Stay safe out there, and enjoy social distancing in the fresh mountain air.
• Kanaan Bausler is a Juneau resident and works as an Avalanche Technician for Alaska Electric, Light and Power.Columns, My Turns and Letters to the Editor represent the view of the author, not the view of the Juneau Empire.
