Recent warm weather has made for great autumn climbing conditions, but don't be lulled into thinking that this could be a long trend. Ice and snow is still lingering in shaded areas above 10,000 feet. Cold mornings and shorter days have not allowed for melting in these areas and any new storms will most likely compound existing winter conditions. This is not a good time of year to attempt long climbs for the first time. Be prepared for rapidly changing weather patterns.
A recent storm system has deposited snow above the 9,000 foot level. Clear skies and warmer temperatures over the weekend have melted much of the snow, but expect snow and ice to linger for quite some time above 10,000 feet, especially in shaded areas.
Late August and early September can produce a variety of weather patterns compounded by shorter, cooler days. Conditions may be dry today, winter tomorrow, dry by the end of the week. This is a condition report that you should expect to hear until we move into a more predictable weather pattern. Climbers should expect that the likelihood to encounter afternoon storms in the Tetons to be fairly high. These storms can create and maintain alpine conditions like snow, ice and verglas. Remember that rockfall hazard increases with precipitation. Keep an eye to the sky, stay mindful that conditions are constantly changing up high and come prepared for anything. Groups of over 3 climbers will take quite a bit longer for an ascent and could put the group in jeopardy of being caught in an afternoon storm, please plan your route options carefully. Be prepared for cold ascents in the morning hours.
