Vail & Summit County

On alpine slopes with more than 8 inches of new or drifted snow, you can easily trigger an avalanche. This avalanche will break on buried weak layers, and the slab may still be very soft. Cracking in the surface snow is a good indication that you have found dangerous snow. You may be able to trigger an avalanche away from the steepest, most drifted area of the slope. Below treeline, watch for cohesionless snow that, if triggered, may knock you over.

You can find safer riding on lower-angle slopes without overhead hazards and those sheltered from the wind.