Northern San Juan

You could trigger a large avalanche if you find a shallow area where it is easier to impact weak, collapsible snow layers. You can find shallow areas near rock outcroppings, on steep rollovers, and below ridges and cliff bands. On northerly and easterly-facing slopes, you can trigger a smaller avalanche in recent wind-drifted snow. Small avalanches could step down to deeper buried weak layers, creating a larger and more dangerous avalanche. Use caution on steeper slopes if the snow surface transitions from soft to stiff or in places with a rounded or wave-like appearance.

Safer riding options exist below treeline or on low-angled, wind-sheltered slopes without steep overhead hazards.