Snow scarce at Hatcher Pass

For the Frontiersman

HATCHER PASS — The Hatcher Pass area received no new snow since the last Recreation Site Snow and Trails Report on Dec. 18.

Temperatures warmed up from the negative teens last week to the mid 20s and 30s this week. Winds were moderate to strong in the higher elevations with gusts up to 44 mph. The Goldmint and Archangel areas have 20 to 28 inches of snow. The Fishhook and Independence Mine area has 16 to 29-plus inches of snow. Higher elevations, including the Hatcher Pass area, are very wind scoured with 0 to 30-plus inches of snow.

Also, more than 50 percent of the Hatcher Pass/Summit Lake area has 0 to 20 inches of snow.

Much of the higher elevations in the West Hatcher Pass Area is showing bare ground. Detailed snow and weather information can be found at the Independence Mine Snowtel website at ambcs.org/SiteViewer.shtml or Marmot Mountain weather station website at cnfaic.org/wx/wx_marmot.php.

SNOWMOBILER’S

All of the East Hatcher Pass Management Area and Summit Lake State Recreation Site are closed to snowmobiling due to insufficient snow cover. These areas will remain closed until there is adequate snow cover with a firm base to protect the underlying vegetation. The Independence Mine cross-country ski trails and Archangel Road are scheduled to be groomed for this weekend.

SLEDDERS, SKIERS AND SNOWBOARDERS

Please stay clear of all roadways. Sledding or skiing in roadways is unsafe and unlawful. Also, be very cautious of hidden hazards in the snowpack. A $5 parking fee or 2009 annual parking pass is required at most trailheads throughout the Hatcher Pass Area. The 2010 pass is available and can be purchased online at dnr.alaska.gov/parks/Passes.cfm or from the Public Information Center in Anchorage, State Park offices, Park staff, REI, AMH or Sportsman’s Warehouse.

ATTENTION BACKCOUNTRY USERS

The Hatcher Pass Area is an avalanche hazard area. Be sure and take your beacons, shovels and probes with you and be knowledgeable of their use. The weather can change quickly and threaten your life. Remember, hypothermia is a life-threatening problem. Safe traveling can prevent backcountry emergencies and costly search and rescues. Always let someone know where you’re going. Know the hazards of the country you’re traveling. Travel with a pack containing safety gear and emergency provisions.