Front Range

Heavily wind-drifted slopes will be the most hazardous. If you trigger an avalanche near the surface, it could step down to weak layers buried 2 to 3 feet deep. You are unlikely to get any warning signs like cracking and collapsing before you trigger an avalanche. There could be multiple sets of tracks on a slope before you find a weaker area of the slope and trigger a deadly avalanche. Slopes with lots of trigger points will be particularly hazardous. You can find safer travel on low-angled slopes and in sheltered areas.

Warm temperatures mean snow can shed off steep sunny aspects. Gullies with lots of exposed rocks to heat up will be the first to slide. If you are in steep terrain and see roller balls, or you are sinking into wet snow past your ankles, head to cooler slopes.

On March 7th, a backcountry skier was caught and killed in an avalanche near Vail Pass. The avalanche released on a northeast-facing slope near treeline, about 2 feet deep. Our deepest condolences to the deceased skier's family, friends, and community. You can read the preliminary accident report here.