Abajos

Triggering an avalanche is unlikely but not impossible. Unusual weather conditions create unusual avalanches. On March 29, 2025, two snowboarders triggered this dangerous avalanche on Horsehead Mountain. It was one of the only slopes that held snow. We have similar conditions this year with a very thin snowpack. Prior to the storm cycle of Feb 16-20, the only slopes that held snow were on shady northerly aspects. This snow was very loose, weak, and faceted creating an unstable base. A slab now exists on top of this weak snow. Warm temperatures and solid freezes have helped to strengthen and consolidate this slab and all surfaces are well crusted over lessening the likelihood for triggering an avalanche, but poor snowpack structure remains. Avoiding steep, avalanche prone slopes with a north and northeasterly aspect remains the prudent strategy.

NWS forecast for the Abajo Mountains.

Wind speed and direction on Abajo Peak.

Snow totals and temps at Buckboard Flat (8924')

Snow totals and temps at Camp Jackson (8858')

See all Abajo Observations here.

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