Gunnison

Identify and avoid wind-drifted snow on steep slopes near and above treeline. If the snow looks smooth and rounded just below a ridgeline or has a stiff, hollow feel to it when traveling across it, you found a wind-drifted slope and should avoid traveling on steep slopes. You can find safer travel options on wind-sheltered slopes at lower elevations or on wind-scoured slopes where the ground is mostly bare with very stiff snow that your feet don't sink more than an inch into.