Avalanche forecast

Salt River and Wyoming Ranges

Bridger-Teton Avalanche Center
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Avalanche danger

Mon
Alpine
2 · Moderate
Treeline
2 · Moderate
Below
1 · Low
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Out of date — this forecast expired 2 years ago. You’re viewing past conditions, not the current bulletin.

Highlights

Triggering wind slabs up to a foot in depth in steep terrain in the upper elevations is possible today. Larger more destructive avalanches in the 2-4 foot range are also possible in similar terrain. Consequences of triggering avalanches at this depth are high and warrant conservative terrain choices. Avalanches are unlikely in the lower elevations.

Avalanche problems

  • Persistent Slabs

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

    Weak snow that formed in early December sits 2-4 feet below the surface and remains a lingering threat today. Triggering an avalanche at this depth carries severe consequences. While it is becoming more difficult to trigger these deeper layers, it cannot be ruled out. Avalanches at this depth have been observed as recently as 5 days ago. Thin spots in the slab are the most likely spots to impact these layers. 

    Large triggers in the form of groups, snowmobiles, avalanches within the new snow and falling cornices will increase the odds of impacting these layers. Use safe travel practices in order to minimize your exposure to this problem. Travel one at a time across steep terrain, use islands of safety when stopped and communicate with your group members throughout the day.

    (1/9/2025)

    Natural persistent slab avalanche that likely failed 1/7 on weak layers formed early season on the ground. Slab depths ranged from 2-3'

    Photo: Alex Drinkard

  • Wind Slabs

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

    The upper elevations of the Salt River and Wyoming have received 10-12 inches of new snow in the past 36 hours. Wind slabs that have formed during that time could be triggered in steep terrain (>35 deg) today. These slabs are in the 1 foot range and will be found in terrain that was loaded by northwest and north winds yesterday. The likelihood of triggering wind slabs today is on the decline but should not be ruled out. Be on the lookout for shooting cracks and stiff, rounded or pillowed snow. When encountering these signs move to less steep terrain.

Avalanche Discussion

The snowpack in the Salt and Wyoming ranges varies depending on location. The early season brought minimal amounts of snow and generally cold temperatures. This helped to form weak layers of snow close to the ground. Beginning in mid December, storms deposited snow and created slabs on top of this weak snow. These slabs now range between 2-4 feet in depth. Obvious signs such as recent avalanches, shooting cracks, or collapsing may not present themselves prior to triggering. With the passage of time it becomes more difficult to trigger these deeper layers. Despite this improving trend, it is important to keep this problem on the radar. Patience is key when dealing with a persistent slab problem and today’s approach should be no different than yesterday.

If you see avalanche activity today, please consider submitting an observation HERE. Observations allow everyone to gain a better and more complete understanding of conditions. Thanks!

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