Mountain Conditions and Weather Report

Date: May 13, 2025
Time: 17:15
Location: STSG

Current Snow Conditions:
No new snow has been reported in the past 12 hours, with average temperatures around -1 °C at 1300 m and -3 °C at 1600 m. Coverage in the upper elevations likely remains from winter snowpack, but spring conditions predominate, meaning firm crusts in the morning and softer, more variable snow in the afternoon. Limited or no data is currently available from the Sea to Sky Gondola station, so localized precipitation or wind details are unclear.

Temperature Trends:
Temperatures are below freezing at higher elevations, following a normal lapse rate as you gain altitude. At lower elevations, conditions are seasonally mild, possibly warming through the day. Expect typical mid-spring freeze-thaw cycles, where overnight cooling can firm up the snow surface, followed by daytime softening.

Wind Overview:
No definitive wind data is available for the STSG area. With no recent gust reports and stable spring weather patterns in the region, winds are likely calm to light, but localized gusts may occur on exposed ridges.

General Forecast:
Mild and stable spring weather is expected through May 16 based on historical patterns. Daytime highs may reach near 18–20 °C at lower elevations, while alpine temperatures hover around or below freezing. Little to no rain or snow is anticipated, with partly cloudy conditions typical for this time of year.

Advice:
Spring is here in full swing, so plan for variable surface conditions that can change rapidly throughout the day—icy in the morning and slushy by afternoon. Lunch breaks on a sunny slope will be pleasant, but start early if you want firmer turns. Keep your eyes on the Aurora Backcountry Pass Guide Announcements in the Base Camp Forum for any updates. If you’re unsure about navigating lingering snow or assessing seasonal hazards, consider hiring a Certified ACMG Ski Guide for enhanced safety and local knowledge.

Date: May 13, 2025
Time: 17:15
Location: Duffey

Current Snow Conditions:
Snowline has crept well above the valley, with no base measured at 1250 m (Cayoosh). However, Mid Blowdown (1890 m) still holds about 86 cm. A light dusting of 2 cm was recorded in the previous 12 hours at both stations, though the quality at lower elevations is negligible due to warm temperatures and melted snowpack. Higher up, expect moist spring snow, softening through the day when the sun is out.

Temperature Trends:
Temperatures at Cayoosh peaked at 15.3 °C and dipped to -1.5 °C overnight, while Mid Blowdown ranged from 0.1 °C to 11.9 °C. A normal lapse rate is evident, with cooler temps at higher elevations. Forecasts indicate mild days ahead (18–21 °C in valley bottoms), so the snowpack will likely undergo daily melt-freeze cycles above 1800 m.

Wind Overview:
Winds have been light (around 3 km/h at Cayoosh) and are expected to remain calm to light for the next few days, generally shifting from the northwest to west. Limited wind effect on the snow should be expected, especially in more sheltered terrain.

General Forecast:
Mostly clear skies and warm daytime temperatures continue through Thursday, with a slight increase in clouds on Friday. Late-afternoon showers may develop on Friday, accompanied by a moderate southwesterly breeze. As temperatures climb, anticipate soft, wet snow surfaces by midday at higher elevations.

Advice:
If you plan on hunting spring turns, aim for early starts to find firmer crust that will soften by late morning. Mid to upper mountain holds the most consistent coverage—bring sunscreen, stay hydrated, and don’t forget sunglasses. For current route-specific details, keep an eye on the Aurora Backcountry Pass Guide Announcements. Hiring a Certified ACMG Ski Guide remains your best bet for proficient mountain travel.

- Aurora Backcountry Guides -