Avalanche forecast

Togwotee Pass

Bridger-Teton Avalanche Center
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Avalanche danger

Wed
Alpine
2 · Moderate
Treeline
2 · Moderate
Below
No rating
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Highlights

Triggering an avalanche on steep wind-affected slopes at upper elevations is possible today. Riders could also trigger a large avalanche that fails on weak snow buried near the ground.  The danger is highest in steep, rocky, and exposed terrain. Evaluate this terrain carefully, watch for cracking in recent snow, and steer clear of terrain traps.

Avalanche problems

  • Wind Slabs

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

    Wind slabs exist in exposed terrain at upper elevations. Expect to find this problem on multiple aspects due to shifting winds over the last several days combined with several inches of recent snow. These slabs could be up to 16 inches deep. Watch for pillows and stiff drifts below ridges and in cross-loaded terrain. Avoid steep terrain with signs of instability including cracking at your ski tips.

    (3/14/2024)

    Cracking snow surfaces, a sign of instability and wind loaded terrain. 

    Photo: Alex Drinkard

  • Persistent Slabs

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

    The persistent slab problem exists at all elevations and on all aspects on Togwotee pass. Weak, sugary snow is buried 2-4 feet below hard slabs. Digging and probing will show you exactly where the problem is. Steep, rocky, and wind-affected slopes on west through north through east aspects should be evaluated carefully.  The underlying weak layers are more easily impacted on slopes with thin areas of snowpack.

    Keep an eye out for cornices above you. Cornices can break unexpectedly and act as very large triggers, impacting deep weak layers and causing large avalanches.

    (3/17/2024)

    A snowmobile triggered persistent slab avalanche.

Avalanche Discussion

A return to more winter-like temperatures has decreased the avalanche danger. Wet avalanche activity is unlikely as colder temperatures, mostly cloudy skies, and a chance of snow dominate the short-term forecast.  Even with the unsettled weather this week, remember that if the sun pops out this time of year, it will only take a few hours to change surface conditions and moisten snow on southerly aspects.

As you ride, continue to identify terrain that warrants concern including steep wind-affected slopes and thin areas of the snowpack on northerly aspects where your chances of triggering an avalanche are elevated. If you find yourself in avalanche terrain where concerning slopes are in play, consider the consequence of getting caught and carried. Watch out for terrain traps.

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