Trip this weekend

[Brian]

A few of us are considering a trip this weekend. But the avalanche forecast for the past two days have us seriously concerned. Just out of curiousity, does anyone have any insight as to what the avalanche forecast will likely be for this Saturday. I'm just trying to gauge whether we'll end up bailing or not on Friday.
Also, I gather that snowshoes are generally not necessary for Tuckerman's ravine. Is this true at this time of year?

[RR]

My snowshoes have always stayed in the car down at Pinkham, but if I didn't have them ready at need....likely, I'd want them. The car can handle the weight. February it's common to need them, occasionally we get a good dump in April and first trackers will likely want snowshoes for more than 14 inches. The trail's well packed now and the 'shoes will probably stay in the car.

As a practical matter, if there are periods of light snows and wind over a few days TUX will see the usual buildup at the lip areas. Sunday 3/30 saw the top two inches of snow soak with Saturday's rains and freeze up pretty good. Releases of buildups, slabs etc will be easy to trigger as a consequence. If there's no warm up and the winds, snow showers and flurries continue, your concern about avy danger staying considerable or higher will be well justified.

The Hermit Lake postings are a great resource for guaging the developments. Besides, if the posting is for considerable or higher, you could take a Mittersill day or even sclepp up to Burke or Jay to fill the steeps crave.