Sawtooth & Western Smoky Mtns

Conditions are generally stable, and large avalanches are unlikely. It’s been over two weeks since the last storm and at least 12 days since the last observed, fresh avalanche. Watch for hard wind drifts and slabs in extreme terrain.

You are most likely to find trouble on slopes around 40 degrees or steeper. As always, "extreme" alpine terrain deserves our respect; think about where even a small avalanche could carry you before committing to consequential, wind-loaded slopes. Some specific things to consider when planning your day in the mountains:

Wind Slabs: Most wind slabs have stabilized and are not sensitive to the weight of a skier or snowmobiler. That said, pay attention in very steep terrain where hard wind slabs overlie weak, sugary faceted snow. The "hard slabs over facets" can sound or feel hollow or "drummy". They are most widespread in alpine terrain. You'll commonly find them in chutes and couloirs or on big exposed alpine faces. Old, weathered hard slabs are typically triggered near rocks (buried or exposed) or on the edges where the slab thins to less than 2 feet thick. 

Cornices: Some cornices are very large, and many are sagging or overhanging. It can be difficult to tell where solid ground stops and the cornice starts; give them space when traveling on ridgelines. Falling cornices can be great triggers for wind slabs below them.

If the exteded period of high-and-dry weather has you wondering what to do, consider honing your companion rescue skills with your partners. Competing in beacon drills or shovelling exercises is fun and keeps you sharp. Both the Baker Creek and Baldy North Face beacon parks are up and running.