Avalanche forecast

Vail & Summit County

Colorado Avalanche Information Center
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Avalanche danger

Mon
Tue
Alpine
3 · Considerable
Treeline
3 · Considerable
Below
2 · Moderate
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Out of date — this forecast expired 6 months ago. You’re viewing past conditions, not the current bulletin.

Avalanche problems

  • Persistent Slabs

    • Alpine
    • Treeline
    • Below treeline
    Likelihood
    Likely
    Size
    2–3

  • Wind Slabs

    • Alpine
    • Treeline
    • Below treeline
    Likelihood
    Likely
    Size
    1–2

  • Loose Wet

    • Alpine
    • Treeline
    • Below treeline
    Likelihood
    Possible
    Size
    1–1.5

Avalanche Summary

You can trigger avalanches where westerly winds formed new drifts of snow on steep slopes. The bigger hazard is slides that break 2 or 3 feet down on buried weak layers. These weak layers are well-connected across slopes, and avalanches breaking on these layers will be difficult to survive. The most dangerous slopes are steep, open slopes below corniced ridges that face northwest through north to southeast.

Remember, smaller slides in drifted snow can easily trigger larger, more deadly avalanches. You may also be able to trigger an avalanche by traveling on flat slopes beneath steep terrain or on low-angle slopes that are adjacent to and connected with steeper slopes. Careful planning and conservative terrain selection are essential this weekend.

Beware of wet snow shedding off steep slopes on the south half of the compass tomorrow. If you see pinwheels or rollerballs in the snow, or you're sinking up to your ankles in wet snow, you should avoid steep slopes. Make sure you're aware of what's above you and below you.

Regions covered