Avalanche forecast

Togwotee Pass

Bridger-Teton Avalanche Center
View on map

Avalanche danger

Tue
Alpine
3 · Considerable
Treeline
2 · Moderate
Below
No rating
Open full map
Out of date — this forecast expired 8 months ago. You’re viewing past conditions, not the current bulletin.

Highlights

Triggering a large avalanche that fails on weak snow buried 2-4 feet deep is possible in steep terrain today. Wind loaded slopes are most dangerous, but avalanches can also occur in sheltered terrain. Recent avalanches, shooting cracks, and collapses are obvious signs of unstable snow. However, these signs may not be present before triggering. Conservative decision making around avalanche terrain is recommended today. 

Avalanche problems

  • Persistent Slabs

    • Alpine
    • Treeline
    • Below treeline
    Likelihood
    Possible
    Size
    1.5–2.5

    Weak snow that formed in November sits near the base of the snowpack in the majority of terrain above 8,500’. Loading from the last ten days of snowfall and strong wind have stressed these weak layers making them sensitive to human triggers. A snowmobiler triggered a 3-4 foot deep avalanche involving weak snow from November three days ago. Triggering a persistent slab avalanche is most likely in very steep terrain that faces east through north.

    Sidehilling in trees triggered the avalanche. No one was caught or injured. This avalanche occurred 12/26.

    Photo: John Sievers

  • Wind Slabs

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

    Moderate to strong wind and new snow within the last 48 hours has formed soft slabs 1-2 feet deep in wind loaded terrain above 9,000 feet. Wind direction varied from southwest to northwest during slab formation. As a result, wind slabs may be found across a wide variety of aspects. The likelihood of triggering has decreased since yesterday, but will still be possible in very steep terrain today. Numerous human triggered wind slabs were reported in adjacent zones yesterday. Steer clear of steep terrain with evidence of recent wind loading.

Avalanche Discussion

A series of atmospheric rivers over the last ten days brought significant snowfall, very strong winds, and even rain to the region. Weak snow that formed in November is present near the ground across much of the Togwotee area. Recent human triggered avalanches involving these layers are red flags and should be enough of a warning to stay away from steep slopes today. Clear skies and warmer temperatures will make riding in the mountains more inviting, but the chances of triggering a large avalanche is still significant. All the recent snow will greatly improve stability down the road, but we are just too close to the loading event to trust steep slopes. For now, it is important to stay vigilant as the snowpack adjusts and practice safe travel habits despite the friendly weather.

Regions covered