Avalanche forecast

Togwotee Pass

Bridger-Teton Avalanche Center
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Avalanche danger

Tue
Alpine
2 · Moderate
Treeline
2 · Moderate
Below
No rating
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Highlights

Strong wind has formed stubborn slabs on steep, wind-loaded terrain where heightened avalanche conditions exist. Watch for evidence of wind loading further downslope and cross-slope than expected due to the strong intensity of the wind. Although less likely, large avalanches falling on buried weak layers are still a concern on very steep, north facing terrain around 9,000’.

Avalanche problems

  • Wind Slabs

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

    Very strong wind out of the southwest through northwest has formed stiff, stubborn wind slabs around a foot deep. Heavily wind loaded terrain above the treeline could contain slabs 1-2 feet deep off steep, leeward terrain. The stubborn character of these wind slabs could provide a false sense of security without obvious shooting cracks. Look for drifts and stiffened or hollow-sounding snow as an indication of potentially wind-loaded terrain. Look for these slabs in unusual locations such as leeward gullies or cross-loaded slopes. 

  • Persistent Slabs

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

    Weak snow formed during the month-long drought in January is buried 2-3 feet below hard slabs. While the likelihood of triggering has decreased due to the strength of the overlying, isolated terrain still harbors buried surface hoar where the weight of a rider could trigger a large avalanche. These isolated areas are most likely on very steep terrain over 35° on northerly aspects between 8,500-9,500’. These weak layers are unlikely, or unreactive, across the majority of other terrain where plenty of safe riding can be found. The last human triggered avalanche was 12 days ago ago (East Angle). Diligent snowpack assessment or steering clear of suspect slopes above consequential terrain is still advised. Buried surface hoar can be unpredictable and preserved for long periods of time. 

    Large triggers, such as cornice falls or multiple people on a slope, increases the chance of initiating a large avalanche on the January drought layer.

    (3/8/2026)

    The last human triggered avalanche the first week of March at 9800' on an east aspect. 

    Photo: Bridger-Teton Avalanche Center

Avalanche Discussion

A Windy Week

An intense storm on Saturday produced periods of heavy snowfall with sustained SW/NW wind 30-40 mph. Togwotee received 4-6 inches of snow, but this snow was heavily redistributed due to the wind. Light snowfall with minimal accumulation is expected today. Wind slabs are slowly gaining strength, but still possible to trigger on leeward or cross-loaded terrain features. 

The persistent weak layers and overlying hard slab have gained significant strength over the last two weeks. The buried surface hoar creates an interesting dilemma. Digging into the snow, stability tests are still producing unstable results. For this reason, we cannot rule out the unfortunate chance of finding a weak trigger point where this surface hoar is still reactive and well preserved. We should be able to put this problem to bed after the drastically warm temperatures this week.

Regions covered