Salmon River Mountains

Sustained warm temperatures and sunny skies today will impact the snow. Loose snow avalanches can also occur on steep, solar slopes as the day warms. Be cautious near cornices and on the lookout for small wind slabs on upper-elevation slopes, particularly on terrain facing N-NE-E. Both can knock a rider off their feet & into consequential spots. Generally stable conditions exist —continue to practice safe travel habits in the backcountry.

Upper elevations above 7,000 feet have seen Southern wind that has affected the surface even down on most North aspects, only the most protected nooks have soft snow that wasn't impacted...While the snowpack is generally stable, low hazard is not a "turn your brain off" environment—there are a few potential concerns to keep in mind. They're not widespread or likely to produce a large avalanche, but they could be dangerous in higher-consequence terrain.

• WIND SLABS: For the most part have aged and are stable and the snow for transport has dwindled through the last few days. You may not find sensitive wind slabs at upper elevations. However, think about the consequences and stay alert as even small slabs can pose a threat if encountered unexpectedly or in the wrong spot. Pay close attention to signs of surface wind texture, like waves or ripples—or snow that feels thicker, denser, or more cohesive than what you're finding on wind-sheltered slopes. Additionally, it is the time of season when cornices have grown large, and these hunks of snow can break in unexpected ways, or farther back on ridgelines.
• Loose snow avalanches can also occur on steep, solar slopes as the day warms...you can reduce your exposure by switching to cooler aspects not under direct sun.

Our habits follow us. Avalanche hazard ratings will always fluctuate up and down throughout a winter, but our travel habits should remain the same. Have fun but keep it tight! If you're getting out and about in the mountains, drop us an observation HERE.