Vail & Summit County

You can trigger a deadly avalanche that runs on weak layers two to three feet deep. The first signs of instability you see could be a large avalanche breaking around you. Do not assume tracks on a slope mean it is safe. Many avalanches have been triggered recently after multiple people have traveled a slope. Strong easterly winds will drift snow into unusual areas, so watch for rounded pillows of snow that may crack as you weight them. You will most likely find this at higher elevations and in cross-loaded features. You can find safer riding by avoiding aspects with a weak layer or by choosing slopes less than about 30 degrees.