San Francisco Peaks / Kachina Peaks Wilderness

The backcountry snowpack is too thin for consistent and safe touring. Rock and log strikes will be unavoidable. There is approximately 2 feet of snowpack on northerly slopes near treeline, and we need closer to 4 feet of snowpack to help cover the jagged volcanic boulders. Even 4 feet would still be a thin snowpack. Expect more information and forecasts to resume when significant snow accumulates. 

It is time to start thinking about avalanches. If you do venture high on the peaks, watch for unstable snow on isolated slopes near and above treeline. Shooting cracks and collapsing snow are signs of unstable snow.

Now is an excellent time to dust off your winter gear and check that everything functions correctly. There might be enough snow near the base of Arizona Snowbowl to work on companion rescue drills with your avalanche transceiver. 

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