Salt River and Wyoming Ranges

Today, it is unlikely that you will trigger an avalanche in the majority of terrain across the forecast region. Isolated pockets of unstable snow might exist in very steep terrain. If engaging with avalanche terrain, travel one at a time and keep eyes on your partner. Avoid traveling in terrain traps that could make an avalanche more consequential.

Today marks two full weeks of no snow. We haven’t seen or heard of a significant avalanche in the Salt and Wyoming Ranges in over 10 days. This lines up with a low danger rating. Low danger doesn’t mean avalanches are impossible though, it means they are unlikely. Avalanche forecast regions are vast and can have subtle differences from drainage to drainage. Isolated pockets of unstable snow may still exist in outlier terrain. Very steep, rocky, thin, convex terrain at middle and upper elevations is where a persistent weak layer could be impacted. Another area of concern is steep slopes near creek beds, where buried surface hoar may exist and act as a weak layer. 

No matter the danger, consider the consequences if a slope does slide and how you can reduce those consequences. Only exposing one person to avalanche hazard at a time, keeping eyes on your partners, and avoiding terrain traps are all ways to do this. The tragic accident in the southern Salt River Range is a sobering reminder to remain vigilant in avalanche terrain. The preliminary report is available for more information.

If you are interested in 6 simple steps to use in your backcountry travel that statistically could reduce your overall avalanche risk, take a look at this.