Northern San Juan

Recent skier triggered avalanches indicate that triggering a large and dangerous avalanche is a very real possibility. Large avalanches are easier to trigger in shallow areas of the snowpack where it is easier to impact weak, collapsible snow layers. Likely trigger points exist on steep rollovers, below ridges and cliffs, and near rock outcroppings. On west to north through easterly-facing slopes, you can trigger a smaller avalanche in recent wind-drifted snow. Small avalanches could step down to deeper buried weak layers, creating a larger and more dangerous slide. Use caution on steeper wind-drifted slopes that have a rounded or wave-like appearance or where the surface transitions from soft to stiff.

Safer riding options exist on low-angled, wind-sheltered slopes without steep overhead hazards.