Sangre de Cristo

Wind-loaded slopes at upper elevations are the most problematic. Your chance to trigger a large and dangerous avalanche increases where the snowpack is shallower. Likely trigger spots exists near shallowly buried rocks, on steep rollovers, and below ridges and cliffs. Avalanches on previously drifted slopes have the best potential to step down to deeper weak layers and take the entire snowpack with it. Use caution on steeper slopes where the snow surface transitions from soft to stiff, or in places with a rounded or wave-like appearance.

You can find safer riding options below treeline, or on low-angled, wind-sheltered slopes without steep overhead hazard.