Avalanche forecast

Togwotee Pass

Bridger-Teton Avalanche Center
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Avalanche danger

Thu
Alpine
3 · Considerable
Treeline
2 · Moderate
Below
No rating
Out of date — this forecast expired 8 months ago. You’re viewing past conditions, not the current bulletin.

Highlights

It is possible to trigger avalanches 2-4 feet deep in steep terrain. These avalanches are dangerous and could bury or injure a rider. While unlikely, the possibility of triggering a wind slab at upper elevations in very steep terrain cannot be ruled out. Be thoughtful in your route planning and carefully evaluate steep slopes. 

Avalanche problems

  • Persistent Slabs

    • Alpine
    • Treeline
    • Below treeline
    Likelihood
    Possible
    Size
    1.5–2.5

    It is possbile to trigger a dangerous avalanche that is big enough to bury or injure a rider. Weak snow that formed in November sits at the base of the snowpack. This layer exists on many aspects and is most suspect on steep slopes facing north and east. We are still seeing plenty of signs that indicate this remains a problem, such as cracking, collapsing, and remotely triggered avalanches. That said, the absence of these signs does not mean a slope is safe. These weak layers take time to heal, so for now giving space to areas that harbor weak snow will help keep you safe from these consequential avalanches.

    (12/29/2025)

    This avalanche is NOT from Togwotee pass but illustrates the nature of a persistent slab avalanche failing on weak layers near the ground.

    This is from the North Fork of Mosquito Creek. 8900', NE aspect, D3 4 days ago.

    Photo: Bridger-Teton Avalanche Center

  • Wind Slabs

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

    While unlikely, the possibility of triggering a wind slab at upper elevations in very steep terrain cannot be ruled out. These wind drifts will likely feel firm and could be hollow or drumlike. Very steep slopes below ridges, around cliffs, and in cross loaded gullies are most suspect.

Avalanche Discussion

The tricky part of dealing with a persistent slab problem is that, as time goes on, feedback becomes less frequent and less reliable. That said, we do know from recent observations, avalanches, and snowpit work that the weak layer is still weak and not dormant. Unfortunately, these avalanches usually become more consequential as days pass, since new snow continues to fall and bury the weak layer deeper beneath a harder slab. This means an avalanche failing on the weak layer would be more destructive.

The good news is that recent storm snow is slowly compressing and insulating the weak November snow. Eventually, it will become unlikely to trigger a persistent slab avalanche. For now, hang tight, let the snowpack sort itself out, and avoid steep slopes that contain a persistent weak layer.

If you see anything avalanche related such as recent avalanches, cracking, or collapsing, please consider submitting an observation. Thanks to those who have submitted recently.

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