Avalanche forecast

Salt River and Wyoming Ranges

Bridger-Teton Avalanche Center
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Avalanche danger

Thu
Alpine
2 · Moderate
Treeline
2 · Moderate
Below
1 · Low
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Out of date — this forecast expired 7 months ago. You’re viewing past conditions, not the current bulletin.

Highlights

Triggering an avalanche is possible today on very steep, isolated terrain where weak layers are buried in the middle and upper elevations. Knowing exactly where these weak layers exist is difficult without thorough snowpack assessment. Look for isolated areas of small wind slabs in the upper elevations due to an increase in wind yesterday.

Avalanche problems

  • Persistent Slabs

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

    Weak layers buried Jan 2nd exist across a scattered distribution around 2 feet deep. These weak layers are not widespread, but have been found in isolated terrain features (see the LaBarge avalanche fatality and Strawberry Creek as examples). For this reason, some slopes may appear stable while other slopes are not. Avoid very steep terrain over 35° above terrain traps such as trees, cliffs, and gullies. No signs of instability will be present before triggering an avalanche. Terrain sheltered from the wind where surface hoar can develop remains the most suspect. 

    Deeper in the snowpack, weak layers formed in December have become unreactive and difficult to trigger by a single rider. Large triggers, such as cornices or groups gathering in close proximity, could increase the potential to impact weak layers 3-5 feet deep.

    (1/12/2026)

    Snowmobile triggered Avalanche in La Barge Creek just east of Commissary Ridge that resulted in a fatality on 1/11/2026. 

    Photo: Bridger-Teton Avalanche Center

Avalanche Discussion

Uncertainty means a lack of confidence, or something that is variable and unpredictable. There is a high level of uncertainty related to the current persistent slab problem. What we do know is that several avalanches have been triggered in the southern portion of the forecast area. These avalanches have most likely failed on a weak layer of surface hoar above a melt freeze crust buried January 2nd. Surface hoar can develop on some slopes, but not on others during specific weather conditions. Small gullies or large drainages can both create ripe conditions for surface hoar.

Use your best judgment to manage this level of uncertainty in your backcountry travel plans. Dig down and start tracking if and where these weak layers exist. Performing a stability test can significantly increase your understanding of a specific slope, but should not be relied upon solely for decision making. Keep eyes on your partners and travel one at a time through avalanche terrain. 

West to northwest wind increased yesterday forming small, shallow slabs in isolated, wind loaded pockets in the upper elevations. These will likely not be large enough to bury a person, but could knock you off your feet or machine. Look for shooting cracks, hollow sounding snow, and fresh drifts as an indication of recent wind loading.

Here is a preliminary look at the accident site and the snowpack in LaBarge Creek made yesterday.

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