Snow hole trip:
Starting at the bottom of the valley we were split into groups with different instructors. We then set off on route to the hut with individuals within the group taking turns to navigate. However, spot checks on everyone as to the location ensured individuals did not simply rely upon social loafing.
On reaching the hut we then left our gear and went out in search of suitable locations to construct snow holes in readiness for the following day. In doing this we looked for cornices, where the snow has drifted over on the leeward side of the cliff, this is seen to be the deepest part. We then tested the depth of the snow using an avalanche probe which would confirm whether it was deep enough.
The next day we skied to the location where we would build the snow holes. We were shown the correct technique in terms of digging them out. It took us 5 hours to complete our own snow holes – digging in separate groups. We made two normal snow holes and one of a different type where the group digs down and people stand in the hollowed space with a tarp over their heads. The rest of the group then threw snow on top of the tarp, effectively burying those in the hollow alive. Those who were buried pushed against the snow making it more compact. This type of shelter worked really well, creating a lot of space and was very useful especially if limited for choice. Finally, we also made an igloo. Using the saw we would cut out blocks of snow and packed them on top to make the structure of the igloo which proved to be successful.
First night in the snow hole was successful – very sheltered and cosy. However, we woke up to bad weather: high winds and snowfall. The group struggled meet the time set to leave, perhaps this was because of the new sleeping arrangements or the diverse weather. When all were ready we set off up the valley, navigating and planning the safest route to the top. After some time we decided to the take a break, we all sheltered under a bivvy where we made a collective decision to head back down since visibility was extremely poor and created a limited learning environment. The instructor led us down to safety where visibility improved and learning could take place in a better environment.
Here we learnt about the layering of snow; how to look out for avalanche conditions and how best they can be avoided. Later in the day we played on some small cornices, experiencing small avalanches safely due to the slope levelling out further down.
The next day in the snow hole we woke up to a heavy night’s snow fall and almost blizzard conditions. Getting out of the snow hole required digging ourselves out. Once we were out we found other teams were still in their snow holes so I went road digging through to them, checking all was well and generally giving them a helping hand. Once our instructor arrived we were informed that conditions were to get worse throughout the day and we needed to get further down the valley, closer to civilization. Gear was packed up and we navigated down with poor conditions. This was very challenging as we couldn’t see the tracks very well or the surrounding land to support accurate navigation.
Once we were in a safe position we were told to dig emergency snow holes, as previously shown and talked about, and were left to pick our own locations. We were given 20mins to complete the snow holes, operating as if they were being constructed in very poor conditions, as a last resort. I found a very good place as I dug down and found an overhang from the rock, leaving a gap under the rock so luckily I was in the hole within 10 min. After everyone had completed their snow holes we went round each and inspected each other’s efforts. We were told that we wouldn’t be staying in them due to weather conditions increasingly getting worse. We then made are way back to the cars which was only 2km away.
On reflection it made perfect sense not stay another night since further south there was a lot of snow fall, suggesting the weather was set in for some time.
Our safety ultimately had to come first.