Aspen

On leeward slopes at upper elevations, you might be able to trigger a slab avalanche in wind-drifted snow. If you notice a hard, hollow feeling to the snow surface or see shooting cracks in the snow, you could be on a dangerous wind drift and you should stick to low-angle slopes or move to a more wind-sheltered slope.

If you move to wind-sheltered terrain facing northwest through north to east you can easily trigger a small loose avalanche on very steep slopes. Even a small avalanche can knock you over and take you for a dangerous ride. You can decrease your chances of triggering a loose avalanche by avoiding travel on slopes steeper than about 35 degrees if your feet, skis, or machine sink deep into the snowpack.