Avalanche forecast

Salt River and Wyoming Ranges

Bridger-Teton Avalanche Center
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Avalanche danger

Tue
Alpine
1 · Low
Treeline
1 · Low
Below
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Highlights

Happy New Year, the avalanche danger is low. Triggering an avalanche 1-3 feet deep is unlikely, but not impossible. Very steep terrain in the upper elevations that faces north is the most likely place to find unstable snow.

Avalanche problems

  • Persistent Slabs

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

    Avalanches involving weak snow buried 1-3 feet deep are unlikely, but cannot be ruled out entirely. Two days ago (12/30), a snowmobile triggered avalanche was reported near Gunsight Pass in the Wyoming Range on a north aspect at 10,000’. This avalanche failed on weak snow 3 feet below the surface. All riders involved in the avalanche were unharmed. This incident is a good reminder that despite a generally Low avalanche danger, there still exists the remote possibility of triggering an avalanche in steep upper elevation terrain. 

    This avalanche highlights the need to remain vigilant, even in times of Low danger. Remember to only expose one person at a time, use islands of safety, and watch your partners when entering into avalanche terrain. The reporting party of this incident did a good job of following safe travel practices and preventing the entire party from injury or burial. Thank you to the party for reporting this avalanche.

    Snowmobile triggered avalanche near Gunsight Pass on 12/30/2023.  The avalanche failed on a north facing slope at 10,000'.

Avalanche Discussion

It has been three weeks since the last significant loading event in the Greys River forecast zone. As a result, the snowpack in its current state is mostly stable. This is most evident by a lack of avalanche activity despite skiers and riders pushing further into avalanche terrain. The most recent avalanche near Gunsight Pass appears to be the exception to the rule, but proves that isolated instabilities still exist. Don’t mistake this quiet period for widespread healing of the weak snow formed in November. Overall, the snowpack structure remains poor with a slab overlaying weak snow in most places. Low danger does not mean no danger. It is wise to fight complacency and continue to assess the snowpack, as well as the consequences of being caught or injured before committing to serious terrain. 

The snowpack in the Greys River forecast area varies significantly between the Salt River, Wyoming, and Snake River Ranges. Snow heights vary from none to over three feet. Some areas do not yet have enough snow for travel and pose little threat to humans with regards to avalanches. In areas with enough snow to get out and ride, avalanches will continue to be a consideration. Digging down to the ground, especially on north facing slopes, can help verify the existence of weak snow in terrain that you wish to ride. 

As the extended dry period continues, it is a good idea to take note of the character and distribution of the current snow surfaces as they could be responsible for future avalanches when snow returns to the forecast area. Most south facing slopes have developed a stout crust while exposed north facing slopes have been scoured by the wind. Sheltered slopes that have been spared the sun and wind harbor weak snow in the form of near surface facets and surface hoar.

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