Thanks for the advice, much appreciated! I'm watching the Eastern Sierra Avalanche Center website for their reports on avalanche hazard. I'm guessing with an el nino year, that there's going to be pretty heavy snowfall this year (or maybe not!)

March is when the snow depth is greatest right? Are there still frequent snowfalls in march? It seems we'll be right at the cusp of winter/spring.

Also, can you guys recommend any other resources to judge the snow conditions?

thanks again! glad I found this forum, tons of good info and experience.