Avalanche forecast

Mount Shasta

Mount Shasta Avalanche Center
View on map

Avalanche danger

Tue
Alpine
1 · Low
Treeline
1 · Low
Below
1 · Low
Open full map
Out of date — this forecast expired 6 months ago. You’re viewing past conditions, not the current bulletin.

Highlights

Avalanche danger is low. Watch for isolated wet snow instability on steep solar aspects around rocky outcroppings and assess small pockets of wind slab in the highest terrain on Mount Shasta.  Be prepared to arrest a fall if traveling on steep snow-covered slopes.

Avalanche problems

  • Loose Wet

    • Alpine
    • Treeline
    • Below treeline
    Likelihood
    Unlikely
    Size
    1

    Despite the continued lack of overnight refreeze, cooler temperatures today should inhibit wet snow instabilities. If you were to find the problem, it is most probable on steep, solar aspects over 35 degrees near or below rock outcroppings. Watch these areas for rollerballs or ankle-deep boot penetration or more into wet snow. Recent scabby wind deposits hold a slightly elevated risk of developing the instability compared to more widespread melt freeze surfaces.

    (3/7/2026)

    About 5 inches of wet and mushy snow adjacent to a rock outcrop near treeline on a 40-degree, south-facing aspect at 10:30 am.     

    Photo: Eric Falconer

  • Wind Slabs

    • Alpine
    • Treeline
    • Below treeline
    Likelihood
    Unlikely
    Size
    1

    Isolated pockets of wind slab may linger in extreme terrain beneath prominent ridgelines and around rock outcrops at the highest elevations on Mount Shasta. It may be difficult to assess drifts without committing to the terrain. It may be prudent to steer around these areas when you are not able to evaluate without exposing yourself to the hazard. Even a small slide can have serious consequences.

    (3/7/2026)

    Mount Shasta getting hammered by northerly winds Saturday morning. Blowing and pluming snow was visible from I-5. 

    Photo: Eric Falconer

Avalanche Discussion

Climbing: Despite the spring like weather at lower elevations, it’s still winter high up on Mount Shasta. An ascent this time of year is significantly riskier than that of spring and requires a higher experience level. Extreme winds with frigid wind chills are forecast on the upper mountain today and through the work week. Expect variable snow surfaces, including firm slide-for-life conditions. Remain vigilant for shedding rocks and icefall. A full mountaineering kit is essential: 12-point crampons (NOT microspikes), ice axe, and helmet, and the skills to use them proficiently. Please refer to the Climbing Advisory page for more information about climbing Mount Shasta. 

Regions covered