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Show Shortly after arriving in the parking lot, the group met the Forest Service snow ranger, who allegedly remarked, " You crazy guys aren't going out today in this wind and snow?" F. M. and Dr. E. talked briefly with the ranger, noting the strong winds and low ceiling near the crest of the mountain range. Although they did not discuss snow conditions, the ranger apparently got the impression that the men had decided against touring. He left the four and went over to Becker Hill where he joined the Ski Patrol in packing the hill. A short time later the touring party bought lift tickets to the top of both the Wildcat and Porcupine Lifts. At the top of the Wildcat lift, R. P. grew apprehensive about the strong winds in the area, but said nothing to his companions. The wind speed was about twenty to twenty- five m. p. h.; visibility was approximately three quarters of a mile. It was probably about 11: 00 a. m. when the party arrived at the top of Porcupine lift and prepared to leave on their tour. Dropping off the hill at the snow marker, they congregated under a large fir to put on their climbers. Three of them carried small packs with first aid and other equipment. Dr. E. left his in the car, since the others had duplicate equipment. The snow seemed excellent. Of the snow conditions, R. J., in his statement on the accident, further remarked that, " I must say that many another time I have considered snow conditions much more hazardous than they were this day." The four chose a northerly route, traveling along ridge lines between the John Paul Jones Ridge and Mt. Ogden, heading for Easter Bowl. The lead position and the task of breaking trail were at first rotated among three of the skiers. R. P. had climber trouble and remained slightly behind. On this part of the ascent, they saw no fracture lines or other indications of unsafe conditions. On reaching Easter Bowl, they traversed on a line about midway down the Bowl. Snow conditions still seemed good. About halfway through the Bowl, R. P. took the lead. According to his statement, he was about 100 yards from the crest of the ridge when he felt an extensive settling of the snow under his skis, accompanied by an audible " boom." He indicates that this was the first sign of any instability. The party continued on to the ridge top above the Bowl, and briefly checked snow conditions in that area. 1 Some 75 feet down the ridge, they found wind- crusted snow and a marked ripple effect. Avoiding this area, they climbed higher on the ridge to eat lunch, completing the ascent about 12: 45 p. m. The four stopped to eat in a shelter of fir trees just below the ridge top, overlooking the last cirque to the north of Mt. Ogden. During their hasty lunch, the northwest wind, which had been very strong, quieted noticeably. The overcast broke in places, allowing good visibility Following their lunch at about 1: 15 p. m., the four began the first part of their descent. It was decided to ski the lower part of the Easter Bowl, 38 |