Avalanche forecast

Togwotee Pass

Bridger-Teton Avalanche Center
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Avalanche danger

Tue
Alpine
3 · Considerable
Treeline
2 · Moderate
Below
No rating
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Out of date — this forecast expired 4 years ago. You’re viewing past conditions, not the current bulletin.

Highlights

Human triggered avalanches remain possible as recent snow and variable wind has added stress to weak layers of snow buried 2-4 feet below the surface across most aspects and elevations. Areas with increased sensitivity will be in wind loaded or rocky, shallow terrain. Conservative decision making and cautious route finding are still advised.

Avalanche problems

  • Persistent Slabs

    • Alpine
    • Treeline
    • Below treeline
    Likelihood
    Possible
    Size
    1–3

    Persistent weak layers across all aspects and elevations are still sensitive to triggering an avalanche. Slab depths could range 2-4 feet with 2 main layers of concern in the lower portion of the snowpack. These layers formed during dry, cold conditions and were buried in November. The base of the snowpack consists of depth hoar with a separate layer of well developed facets just above. Both layers show propensity to propagate a failure during stability tests. Areas with increased sensitivity will be wind loaded terrain where additional snow has added stress to these buried weak layers.

  • Wind Slabs

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

    Wind slabs have developed over the last several days with moderate winds and strong gusts that have shifted direction from westerly to easterly. Snow from the last storm cycle is still available for transport, especially in the upper elevations. Slab depths will likely be 1 to 2 feet but could be as deep as 3 feet in isolated areas.

Avalanche Discussion

Powder fever, that euphoric feeling we all know riding fresh snow. November and December have provided ample opportunity to pursue this feeling. For many of us, winter has already felt long. But with January upon us, it’s important to take a step back and understand that the snow is still transitioning from an early to mid-season snowpack. 

For Togwotee, this mid-season snowpack often creates more dangerous conditions as weak continental snow finally forms slab qualities that are favorable for avalanches. This last storm finally set up these conditions, with both human triggered and natural avalanches reported in the last 4 days. The bottom of the snowpack contains poor structure across all aspects and elevations. Conservative decision making will be necessary until the depth of the snowpack increases enough to stabilize the poor structure. This could take some time, so patience will be important. 

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