Vail & Summit County

Strong winds will drift snow into slabs at upper elevations. You can trigger an avalanche that breaks in the wind-drifted snow. Some avalanches could break into weak snow near the ground. Look for and avoid drifted pillows on steep slopes just below ridgelines and in gully features. Cracking and collapsing are signs of unstable snow. Avoid steep slopes if you see these signs. For safer travel options, stick to slopes with a slope angle less than about 30 degrees or areas protected from the wind.