Front Range

You can trigger an avalanche on north through east to southeast-facing slopes at upper elevations that might break deeply, on buried weak snow near the ground. Avoid steep slopes covered by stiff, wind-drifted snow. You may not see signs of instability like cracking or collapsing before you trigger an avalanche. An avalanche could break unpredictably wide like a recent one near Guanella Pass. You can find safer terrain options in wind-sheltered areas, or below treeline.

As temperatures quickly rise on Wednesday, pay attention to the snow surfaces. This will particularly be true for the upper end of below treeline, where you find the most snow. If you see or feel the snow surface becoming moist, pinwheels forming, or small fan-like point release, it is time to see colder, dry snow surfaces or head home. However, with the Persistent Slab avalanche problem, seek colder, dry snow less than about 30 degrees for safer travel options.