Sangre de Cristo

The most dangerous areas are deep, stiff snow drifts at upper elevations that sit on old snow below. Areas of wind-drifted snow are found below ridgelines, in gullies, and cross-loaded terrain. Look for cracking or collapsing in the new snow, a sign to move to lower-angled slopes.

Days of warm temperatures followed by a good overnight freeze reduce the potential for wet avalanches. However, remain alert for rapidly warming conditions at lower elevations. If the snow feels wet and glops onto your equipment, move to shaded or lower-angled slopes.