Ostrander Ski Hut

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Links to Useful Sites

California Department of Water Resources Snow Page Real time temperatures and snow pack (water content--not snow depth) at Ostrander (Merced River Drainage). As a reference: actual measurement of snow depth on 1/29/00 was 60 inches of snow. The snow pillow reading for that day showed 14.03 inches of water, so that can give you an idea of actual depth vs. the water content shown on the pillow.

Tuolumne Conditions Tracey and Bruce, the rangers at Tuolumne Meadows, are giving snow and avalanche conditions there every few days. Also interesting notes on wildlife sightings. If you're going into Tuolumne from the east side, be sure to stop by TPR to see if there's any mail to deliver to them!

Also:
A list of real time weather stations, including White Mountain and a few at Tahoe.

Eastern Sierra Avalanche Bulletin Current Forecasts from Mammoth

Sierra Avalanche Conditions Avalanche hazard is minimal to non-existent if you stay on the marked route (either Bridlalveil Creek Trail or Horizon Ridge) into the hut. Check with the hutmaster on conditions beyond the hut.

Cyberspace Snow and Avalanche Center A general avalanche information site--how they occur, what to watch out for. Also has the Mammoth Avalanche Advisory--excellent overview of central Sierra conditions. Also gives you the chance to subscribe to a Mammoth avalanche forecast List Server (they ask for a small donation). A good service if you do a lot of backcountry. skiing.

Bob's Freeheel Links & Resources Links to Cross Country Ski & Mountaineering stuff, including equipment suggestions.

Snowlands Network Information on cross country skiing, other huts and issues in maintaining cross country ski areas in California. An excellent resource. (Formerly Nordic Voice).

TelemarkTips.com A lot of great information on backcountry skiing, reviews of equipment, even a video on how to toast your own thermal fit boots.

Southern Yosemite Mountain Guides Guided Climbing and Skiing trips throughout the West.

Couloir Magazine Great information on backcountry and extreme skiing.