Beautiful morning on the Cross to start off the season! 60-70 cm snow depth where we stopped to transition a bit below the top - checks out with the 25" snow depth reported by the Galena Summit SNOTEL. The deep and slightly fluffier than expected snow made for good skiing but difficult trail breaking. We could see/feel plenty of sagebrush and rocks while poling on the skin up - a good reminder to ski cautiously with your tips up and keep the knees intact for the long season ahead.