The snowpack was relatively deep and strong on the aspects and elevations I investigated. Southerly slopes below treeline were still firm and have seen substantial melting from recent warm weather. North through east aspects near treeline were still cold and have not been affected by recent warming.

From the Vail Pass trailhead up to the ridge above Lost Lake and back

There was a large avalanche triggered by a massive cornice fall. Judging by the missing section in the cornice and the large chunks in the debris, it was a big trigger. The slope did break into deeper layers a couple hundred feet below the ridge.

The snowpack near a recent avalanche above Lost Lake was around 220+cm and relatively strong. The upper slab has settled to 1 finger to pencil hard and sits above facets that have gained strength (up to 1 finger as well). This was on a northeast-facing slope at 11900'. This might be a deeper area as it was on the leeward side of a ridge. I also dug a quick pit on an east-facing slope at 11700' and found a slight shallower snowpack (170cm). The slab was a little thinner, but the facets were also rounding and gaining strength. The recent warm temperatures had formed a very thin crust (2mm), but it was spotty and not much of an issue for future problems. I did get a small collapse while crossing a thin wind-scoured section.

Sunny day with zero clouds in the sky. A slight breeze, but mostly calm.