Southern San Juan

You are most likely to trigger a dangerous avalanche on wind-loaded, upper-elevation slopes facing west through northeast to southeast. Recent north, south, and then westerly winds have drifted snow onto many slopes near and above the treeline. You could trigger an avalanche in surface snow which breaks into a deeper, more-dangerous slide. Avoid slopes with evidence of recent wind-drifting, such as fresh cornice growth, smooth, lens-like pillows, or stiff snow underfoot. Retreat to less-steep terrain or more wind-sheltered areas if you experience cracking or audible collapsing. Slopes less than about thirty degrees steepness without steep terrain above offer safer options.