Front Range

You can trigger a dangerous avalanche that breaks wider and runs further than anticipated. You can trigger these avalanches from below a slope or from a distance. Cautious route-finding and conservative decision-making are essential for safe travel in the backcountry. Even a small avalanche in the recent storm snow can be problematic; small avalanches may break into older, weaker snow near the ground creating a large avalanche. You found a dangerous slope if you see signs of unstable snow like recent avalanches, cracking, or collapsing. Slopes less than 30 degrees and not connected to larger, steeper slopes offer safer travel options.

December 31, 2022, two skiers were caught in an avalanche on Peak 10 southwest of Breckenridge, and one did not survive. You can read the preliminary accident report here. Our deepest condolences go out to the family and friends of the people involved in this tragic accident.