Southern San Juan

The most problematic areas are wind-loaded slopes near and above treeline where you find drifted slabs of snow around 10 inches thick. You may find deeper drifts spanning multiple terrain features on northerly and easterly-facing slopes capable of producing a wider breaking avalanche. Most slides will break in the new snow, but in large alpine features, some may break deeper and in surprising ways, and travel farther than usual. If you see evidence of drifting like lens-shaped pillows of snow, avoid traveling beneath ridgelines and cornices, or above terrain traps where a smaller avalanche could magnify the consequences of getting caught. Wind-sheltered slopes around 30 degrees, without steeper terrain overhead, offer safer travel options.

With fresh snow, ample sunshine, and warming temperatures, watch for wet snow avalanches from steep, sunny slopes. The snow surface will warm first on east-facing slopes, then to south and west-facing slopes during the day. Retreat to shady slopes if you see rollerballs or find about 6 inches of wet, sticky snow.

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