Avalanche forecast

Stevens Pass

Northwest Avalanche Center
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Avalanche danger

Mon
Alpine
3 · Considerable
Treeline
2 · Moderate
Below
2 · Moderate
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Out of date — this forecast expired 8 months ago. You’re viewing past conditions, not the current bulletin.

Highlights

You may be able to trigger avalanches in new snow on slopes over 35 degrees and especially at upper elevations and near the Cascade Crest, where the wind forms drifts. Use test slopes to check how easily the recent snow slides, and choose wind-sheltered terrain or low-angle slopes in areas with deep wind drifts. Due to limited information, access, and resources, keep your travel and terrain selection conservative.

Avalanche problems

  • Storm Slabs

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

    Avalanches are most likely at upper elevations and on leeward slopes where you find recent wind-loading. However, wind-stiffened slabs may be hidden under more recent snow. Use a pole or probe to feel for stiffer snow in suspect terrain. You may also be able to trigger avalanches in the recent snow on wind-sheltered slopes above 4,500ft.

    Watch for "red-flag" signs of instability, such as recent avalanches, blowing snow, and cracks shooting through the snow. Use quick tests to check how easily the upper 2 feet of snow slides. If you see it slide easily,  especially on a crust, consider this another "red flag."  If you see these signs of instability,  reduce the risk of an avalanche by sticking to low-angle areas, under 35 degrees. Additionally, avoid steep slopes beneath corniced ridgelines and wind-exposed terrain. 

    (12/20/2025) An example of a simple "switchback test." This cut corner produced a long crack that "popped with energy." Snoqualmie Pass, Alpental Valley

Avalanche Discussion

On Saturday, highway and ski area workers reported 1.5-2 feet of recent snow over a crust from the 18th. Observers on McCue Ridge and in the Little Wenatchee drainage reported 1 foot of recent snow. At upper elevations, we expect more storm totals and recent wind drifts. Ongoing snow could deliver another 5-6" by Sunday.

Access to the Stevens Pass zone is closed via both sides of Highway 2. Information is very limited. When you add recent power outages and bare bones observations, we have very limited information about the snowpack. To mitigate this increased uncertainty, make frequent observations using quick hand-pit tests and take extra time before entering larger terrain.

Flooding, washouts, downed trees, and damage to major roads have been more imminent concerns than avalanches. A recent pattern shift toward colder, snowier weather will begin to fill in our low and mid-elevation terrain, and move our concerns to usual winter hazards. We'll still need to be patient as WSDOT crews work tirelessly to reopen the highway.

The weather over the past few weeks has been extraordinary, with torrential rains, extreme winds, flooding, and landslides. Many communities are dealing with damage to homes, infrastructure, and businesses, stretching resources thin. These events have limited access to the mountains for all of us. State and local resources are working diligently to reduce the worst of these impacts. We can help by being respectful of local communities, obeying road closures, and heeding ski area uphill travel policies.

Regions covered