Wind Slabs
N
NE
E
SE
S
SW
W
NW
- Alpine
- Treeline
- Below treeline
- Likelihood
- Possible
- Size
- 1–2
You can trigger avalanches on steep wind-loaded slopes facing north to east to south at upper elevations. Look for and avoid rounded pillows of drifted snow. You are most likely to trigger a slide close to ridgelines and gullies in the alpine. Pay attention to drifting into unusual locations from strong winds. Slopes sheltered from the wind offer safer and better riding.
Below the treeline, pay attention to steep slopes where you find a cohesionless snowpack above terrain traps.