Northern San Juan

Recent skier triggered avalanches indicate that triggering a large and dangerous avalanche is a very real possibility. Large avalanches are easier to trigger in shallow areas of the snowpack. Likely trigger points exist on steep rollovers, below ridges and cliffs, and near rock outcroppings.

On west to north through easterly-facing slopes, you can trigger a large avalanche in wind-drifted snow. Avalanches could step down to deeper buried weak layers, creating a larger and more dangerous slide. If you see signs of recent avalanches, smooth pillow-like snow, active cornice development, or cracking and collapsing, you have found a problematic slope.

Safer riding options exist on low-angled, wind-sheltered slopes without steep overhead hazards.