Moab

April 2, 2026

9 inches of new snow, and strong southwesterly winds have increased the avalanche danger on mid to upper elevation, leeward slopes. Look for fresh, unstable slabs of wind drifted snow, primarily on slopes facing the north half of the compass. Human triggered avalanches up to 18 inches deep are possible to likely in these areas. Recent deposits of wind drifted snow are often recognized by their smooth, rounded appearance, and cracking is a sign of instability. Avoid steep slopes with recent deposits of wind drifted snow.

Well below freezing temperatures have finally put our wet slab concerns to bed but as the sun hits the new snow and temperatures warm, we will again need to be alert to signs of loose wet instability such as rollerballs, pinwheels, and sloppy wet snow. Stay off of and out from under steep slopes when these signs are present.

We'd like to give a huge shout out to all who supported operations this season. This includes everyone who regularly used the forecast to stay safe; our local business sponsor Talking Mountain Yurts; Mammut, Voile, and Arva for setting us up with the gear we need to do our job; Canyonlands Natural History Association (CNHA); the Manti-La Sal National Forest for their tremendous support of the program; and last but not least, our great local community and crew of dedicated observers who provide vital information and assistance throughout the season. Thanks everyone, see you next winter!

Click here to see the La Sal avalanche database.

General Conditions

A record low snow year followed by record warm temperatures in March has decimated the snowpack making conditions feel like the first of June. Prior to the storm on April 1, south facing slopes were bare of snow, the road above the Geyser Pass winter trailhead has melting out, and access was becoming increasingly more difficult. Continuous snow cover only existed on mid and upper elevation, northerly aspects and these are the same areas where you are most likely to find trouble if you have a hankering to sample the most recent snow. Rein in your objectives for a few days and let the recent snow settle out a bit.

Snowpack and Weather Data

Gold Basin Storm Stake (10,000')

Gold Basin SNOTEL site (10,000')

SNOTEL site near Geyser Pass Winter Trailhead (9600')

Wind Station on Pre-Laurel Peak (11,400')

NWS forecast for the La Sal Mountains.

This forecast is from the U.S.D.A. Forest Service, which is solely responsible for its content. This forecast describes general avalanche conditions and local variations always occur.