Sawtooth & Western Smoky Mtns

Conditions are generally stable, and large avalanches are unlikely.  Avoid lingering under very steep, sun-drenched slopes and consider moving to cooler slopes if you find a wet, mushy snow surface. Cornices are large and may be unstable—give them a wide berth.

If you are stepping into steep terrain, there are a few things to keep in mind: 

• You may find a wet, mushy snow surface on very steep, sun-drenched slopes.  The short pulse of snow on 03/05-03/06 did bring some snow to this zone, and small, natural wet loose slides aren't out of the question. Yesterday, riders in the Sawtooths observed a recent wet loose slide while riding near Alturas Lake. You can hedge your bets by avoiding lingering under very steep slopes basking in unobscured sun—especially later in the day. Consider moving to cooler slopes if you encounter a wet or mushy snow surface in very steep terrain. 
• You may find isolated pockets of wind-drifted snow. These thin wind slabs are mostly likely lingering on the shady side of the compass; don't rule out the possibility of finding them elsewhere with recent NE and E winds. Additionally, in very steep terrain, sluffs are possible, and skiers on Wednesday were able to trigger small sluffs in steep terrain. 
• Cornices are a real concern this time of year. Cornices have begun to sag and may be unstable. Build wide margins while traveling near cornices; they can break further back than you may think.