Avalanche forecast

Togwotee Pass

Bridger-Teton Avalanche Center
View on map

Avalanche danger

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Out of date — this forecast expired 8 months ago.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

Highlights

Triggering a large avalanche that fails on weak layers buried 2-3 feet deep is possible in very steep terrain today. Wind-loaded slopes at the upper elevations are most dangerous. Signs of instability, such as cracking or collapsing, may not be present before triggering an avalanche. Conservative terrain choices and thorough snowpack evaluation are recommended today.

Avalanche problems

  • Persistent Slabs

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

    Weak layers of snow formed in November are buried 2-3 feet deep beneath hard slabs. These weak layers exist on most aspects above 9000’ and any shady aspect at lower elevations on Togwotee.  An avalanche was triggered three days ago on Barber’s Point involving these weak layers. It was triggered in very steep, north-facing terrain that was wind-loaded, highlighting where this problem is most likely. Remote triggering from gentle terrain above, below, or beside steep slopes is still possible. Shooting cracks and audible collapses are obvious signs of instability, but may not be present before triggering a large avalanche.

    (12/10/2025)

    The recently triggered avalanche on Barber's Point. This avalanche failed on weak snow formed in November.

    Photo: Bridger-Teton Avalanche Center

  • Wind Slabs

    • Alpine
    • Treeline
    • Below treeline
    Likelihood
    Possible
    Size
    1–1.5

    Strong, sustained winds from the west/southwest have formed hard slabs up to a foot deep in wind-loaded terrain at the upper elevations. These slabs are becoming more difficult to trigger, but the chance remains in very steep, wind-loaded start zones. Look for slab formation further down slope and in unusual locations, given the recent wind speeds. Triggering a surface slab could step down into deeper weak layers and result in a larger-than-expected avalanche. 

    (12/10/2025)

    Watch for wind slabs along exposed ridges and around rocky outcrops.

    Photo: Bridger-Teton Avalanche Center

Avalanche Discussion

We are several days out from last week’s significant loading event. Heavy, dense snow, extremely strong wings, and some rain dramatically changed the snowpack. The slab that formed last week is overlying weak, faceted snow from November on slopes above 8,000’. Human-triggered avalanches and reports of collapses in the last three days point to continued unstable conditions. The snowpack has undergone rapid change this week, and weak layers need time to adjust to the recent load. Colder temperatures on Togwotee will make this process slower compared to the surrounding forecast zones. The avalanche hazard will slowly decrease during the next few days without snow, but the adjustment process takes time. Conservative terrain choices are recommended for the time being.

If you get out riding today, please consider submitting an observation here. A simple picture or snow depth can make a big difference. Thank you!

Regions covered