Grand Mesa

You will find generally safe avalanche conditions. Starting and ending your day early and, if possible, from a high trailhead reduces your risk further.

Look for rounded drifts of firm snow close to ridgelines. These drifts could be problematic in extreme terrain where a small avalanche could be dangerous. Cornices guard many easterly slopes. Avoid being on or under these giant chunks of ice that could break off without warning!

If you travel below 10,500 feet expect punchy conditions and Loose Wet avalanches as the day warms. Be careful where you find wet snow below the treeline in steep terrain with gullies or creeks below. Carefully plan your day to account for returning to the trailhead once the snow has softened. If you find yourself sinking into wet snow past your ankles, head to lower-angle or shady slopes.