Gunnison

Dangerous avalanche conditions exist throughout the Elk and West Elk Mountains. You can easily trigger a deadly and destructive avalanche on many slopes. You can trigger an avalanche from a long distance away so be aware of steep slopes above you and other parties nearby. Don't let a lack of signs of instability such as cracking or collapsing in the snow around you lure you into thinking a slope might be safe. If it faces west through north to southeast, it most likely isn't. You may find safer travel options on south and southwest-facing slopes but the easiest way to increase your chances of coming home safe is to stick to low-angle terrain without steep slopes above you until the buried weak layers adjust to the new load.