Sangre de Cristo

Most slopes are generally safe from avalanches. If you were to trigger an avalanche, it would be steep slopes at upper elevations where drifted snow sits on a firm sliding surface. The most problematic slopes are northerly facing, steeper than about 35 degrees. A small avalanche can be dangerous if taken off-guard in steep, complex terrain. Adjust your travels if you see cracking in drifted snow.

General warming over the next few days will slowly increase wet avalanche hazard. Avoid traveling on or under slopes that show signs of warming in the form of rollerballs, pinwheels, and wet, gloppy snow. It's that time of year when, if you plan to venture into the backcountry, it's a good idea to start early and end early.