Steamboat & Flat Tops

A powerful winter storm with intense winds and heavy snow overnight means you can easily trigger an avalanche on Friday. Drifted slopes at upper elevations are the most dangerous, but you can trigger an avalanche in most places. Cracking in the snow and audible collapses are signs of instability and indications to avoid steep slopes. Avoid rounded pillows of drifted snow on steep slopes below ridges, in gullies, and behind convex rollovers. Avoiding these pillows and seeking out sheltered or lower-angled slopes are ways to reduce your hazard.