Author: Jason Albert

Tree Well Awareness

Tree Well Awareness

Written by | Mar 19, 2024

Tree wells are small to large voids that form near the base of a tree and its trunk during winter. In this instance, we use the term void as the tree well is a large air pocket. It forms throughout the winter as snow falls when tree branches and boughs prevent snow from infilling the void near the tree’s base. A thick and strong layer of branches and limbs becomes an umbrella, preventing snow from filling in around lower portions of the tree trunk. 

What appears to be well-consolidated at the surface could be a facade under which a tree well lurks.

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Local Insights from Canada’s South Coast

Local Insights from Canada’s South Coast

Written by | Mar 7, 2024

A team of two in Canada’s South Coast Range have a compelling newsletter—The Weekly South Coast Conditions Report—to assist those touring in the region to make better informed choices regarding the local snowpack and conditions. Which overall, should increase the fun factor.

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Select Peaks of Greater Yellowstone—A Mountaineering History and Guide: A Review

Select Peaks of Greater Yellowstone—A Mountaineering History and Guide: A Review

Written by | Feb 29, 2024

Guides to the backcountry run the gamut in terms of quality, thoroughness, too little beta, too much beta, no history (as in literally just photos and photoshopped lines and arrows), too much history, and general shoddiness. A good guidebook goes back to the old saying, “you know it when you see it,” or in this case, see it and read it.

Tom Turiano updates his 2003 bible, Select Peaks of Greater Yellowstone—A Mountaineering History & Guide: The revised and expanded edition is gold. 

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