Abajos

Blowing and drifting of the most recent snow has created a MODERATE avalanche danger on steep, upper elevation, northerly facing slopes. Overall low coverage will make this type of terrain difficult to access, but if you find yourself in these areas, suspect slopes that have smooth, rounded deposits of wind drifted snow. Cracking in the snow surface is a sign of instability.

Low snow cover will create the biggest hazard out there right now, and barely covered rocks and deadfall can quickly ruin your season. Even a small avalanche triggered under these conditions can have serious and painful consequences.

Thanks to all who took the time to up their avalanche game and attend USAW online this season!

Winter finally arrived in the region bringing a decent shot of snow to the mountains, and even an inch or two to the valleys yesterday. Lower North Creek picked up 6" of new snow and upper elevations likely received up to a foot of new snow. Ridgetop winds during the storm blew in the 20-30 mph range from the SW before backing off and shifting to more northerly later in the day.

Today will be a glorious day in the mountains with fresh snow, sunshine, and high temperatures in the low 20's. Look for increasing clouds tonight with another shot at a few inches of snow on Monday, with another chance on Thursday.

It will be a great day to dust off the boards or fire up the machine and ease into winter but low snow coverage dictate extreme caution and travel beyond roads or grassy slopes and meadows is not recommended. Prior to this storm, snow cover was mostly limited to northerly facing, shady slopes above about 9500', and depths ranged from a few inches to 18" or more at the higher elevations. Most sun-exposed slopes were bare. Needless to say, coverage is quite thin, and barely covered rocks and logs lurk just beneath the surface.

NWS Weather Forecast.

Snow totals at Buckboard Flat (8924')

Snow totals at Camp Jackson (8858')

Information on outdoor recreation - The State of Utah created this webpage with information about recreating on both state and federal public lands during the current health crisis.

New to the backcountry (including riding at closed resorts) - Watch the award-winning, 15 minute Know Before You Go video, or take the 5-part, free online-learning series.

This forecast is from the U.S. Forest Service, which is solely responsible for its content. This forecast describes general avalanche conditions and local variations always occur.