Mountain Journal

After an incredible start to winter, the Alps now have a solid base of snow across higher elevations. There has been some great falls in lutruwita/ Tasmania as well. Resorts have just had big opening weekends (the ‘best start in 22 years’ according to many sources), with some resorts in NSW experiencing partial closure of roads at peak times due to the number of people trying to get to the slopes. Even Ben Lomond in Tasmania had the lifts turning. The snow pack in the backcountry is starting to consolidate nicely.

Everywhere, accommodation was full, venues were cranking, and the slopes were full of people getting their snow legs back and enjoying the novelty of skiing and riding in June.

So what happens now?

Even though the snow has stopped for the time being, resorts are making snow so the groomers are looking good for now. The long distance modelling is not worth getting too excited about because the situation can change considerably over time. But there is light snow expected in higher zones on Wednesday and Thursday. The forecasts generally sit at 5 to 25 cm of incoming over the next week, with best falls in the Hotham/ Falls Creek area (eg check Mountain Watch).

Looking further into the season, Pete ‘The Frog’ Taylor from Snowatch says:

Currently La Nina is weakening but still influencing our weather patterns. Indications are that during our snow season we will see this pattern continue to weaken and move towards a more neutral level (which in my experience is a lot more conducive to good snowfalls).

Weatherzone says ‘there is potential for more above-average snowfall in the coming months’.

Fingers crossed!

Remember, if you’re heading into the backcountry, check the Mountain Sports Collective conditions report first.

BELOW: some photos from the last two weeks.

Mt Hotham