Southern San Juan

You can trigger a large, deeply-breaking avalanche from thin spots on a slope, such as gully edges, convexities, or rocky areas. Also avoid wind-drifted areas, such as slopes beneath cornices or areas with smooth, pillowed features, where you may more easily trigger an avalanche. Avalanches that you trigger in surface snow may break into more deeply buried layers, creating a more dangerous avalanche. Stick to slopes less than about thirty degrees or more wind-sheltered areas for safer options.