Grand Mesa

You can trigger an avalanche where recent wind and new snow built a cohesive slab on top of a layer of weak snow. The most dangerous slopes face north through east just below ridgelines and along the sides of gullies. This is where the wind-blown snow will continue to stack up and become more dangerous. If you notice snow being blown onto a slope, see cracking in the snow, or experience a collapse as you travel across a slope, these are signs you should stick to low-angle terrain or find a more wind-sheltered slope. Safer options exist lower in the terrain below treeline and on slopes sheltered from the wind.