Muir Snowfield Update 8/9/23

Blue Ice, crevasses, and warm temperatures oh my! The Muir Snowfield is becoming more of an "Icefield" than a snowfield.  There is exposed glacial ice with a number of crevasses beginning to open up above 8500'. Where there is snow, the surface conditions are quite sun cupped and coated with a fine layer of rock and dust. These hazards will only progress with our forecasted hot temperatures over the next week. 

~8in Wide Crevasse at 9,600ft 

The crevasses that are present on the upper portion of the snowfield are relatively easy to spot and navigate around, but caution should still be taken as the surface condition adjacent to these features are firm and icy. Take caution while descending from Camp Muir, as a couple of these cracks can be difficult to spot from above.

A Snowbridge someone punched through adjacent to a worn boot pack

While navigating the Snowfield, we recommend appropriate sturdy boots that are capable of accepting micro spikes or even crampons! Devices like these that add traction on the snow and ice greatly add security. Trekking poles are also recommended to aid in hiking on this variable and often slick terrain. 

Looking Down the Snowfield

Finally, having and knowing how to use GPS devices/applications is essential to aid in navigating on the snowfield. It is exceptionally common to find yourself in whiteout conditions and these modern tools can be a literal lifesaver.