the melt crusts were much stouter and supportive than on the headwall near the lake. The snow right near the top of the ridge was a little softer, but was we were able to kick steps just fine. Once on the west side of the ridge winds were over 40mph with stronger gusts. The summit was incredibly windy, and we left after less than 2 minutes. We down climbed the east ridge around 815 to 830. Then we walked / glissaded down and we back by the lake at 930. By the way, were you the person who came up and said "So did you trigger a slide?" as we made it back to camp?

I was about to post a condition update for Mount Daly (13,300')... your report (& Mike's reply - we had some strong wind on Sat too!) convey most of what I would have said. Just to reiterate... lots of point releases & wet slide activity in the Elks still. It will eventually mature into a strong consolidated snowpack... its just not there yet. Snow in our basin (West Snowmass Creek) started continually around the 10k mark. South facing aspects had dry spots much higher. Also echoing Mike - the high terrain (starting at about 13k) on our route had much better snow as the wind was helping keep it cold. Stay safe out there my friends!

Thanks for filling in about the details up higher! I figured you guys would probably top out around 8am. I don't recall saying that, I was still in my tent when you guys got back.

TakeMeToYourSummit...Daly's so gorgeous right now! Congrats!