Sangre de Cristo

You can trigger an avalanche which breaks on weak layers near the ground on west, north, and east-facing slopes. Snow and wind from the southwest will create more dangerous avalanche conditions on near and above-treeline slopes facing northwest through north to southeast where thicker slabs of wind-deposited snow can more easily overload weak layers. Look for and avoid areas with signs of fresh drifting such as recent cornice growth or sculpted features. Retreat to less-steep slopes or more wind-sheltered areas if you experience cracking or audible collapsing. Slopes less than about thirty degrees without steep terrain above provide safer options.