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