Avalanche forecast

Togwotee Pass

Bridger-Teton Avalanche Center
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Avalanche danger

Mon
Alpine
2 · Moderate
Treeline
1 · Low
Below
No rating
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Highlights

Triggering an avalanche 8-12” deep will be possible today in steep, wind loaded terrain. These soft slabs will be most sensitive in exposed terrain above 9,000 feet where the wind has drifted the most recent snow. Shooting cracks and audible collapses are good indicators that you have found unstable snow. Carefully evaluate wind drifted new snow and avoid terrain steeper than about 30 degrees if you observe these signs of instability.

Avalanche problems

  • Wind Slabs

    • Alpine
    • Treeline
    • Below treeline
    Likelihood
    Possible
    Size
    1–1.5

    2-3” of new snow fell overnight with another 3” expected to fall throughout the day. Moderate winds out of the southwest are increasing this morning and may form sensitive soft slabs 8-12” deep in exposed terrain above 9,000’. These slabs are sitting on top of old, weak snow in terrain that is shaded from the sun and will be most sensitive in these locations. Dig down to see what lies below the newest snow. In addition, watch for signs of wind loading including hollow sounding snow, pillow features, and textured surfaces. Shooting cracks and collapsing indicate instability. Consider sticking to low angle and sheltered terrain if you observe these conditions. Avalanches below 9,000' are not expected today given the shallow conditions except for in isolated areas of very steep terrain such as Maverick Creek. 

    Snow depths are shallow! Many hazards lurk just below the surface and may be obscured by the newest snow. Seek out grassy slopes and meadows for the safest, most enjoyable riding.

    (12/14/2024)

    Cracking observed yesterday in wind loaded terrain. 

    Photo: Bridger-Teton Avalanche Center

Avalanche Discussion

The snowpack around Togwotee Pass is shallow and weak. Depths are hovering around 20” at 9,000’ on sheltered slopes. Faceted snow is widespread on north facing slopes and crusts are present on south facing terrain where it is holding snow. Preserved surface hoar has also been observed in some locations. All of this is to say that the foundation on which this storm’s snow is falling is weak. While new snow totals are low and little additional accumulation is expected today, caution is still advised on any steep slope where a firmer layer of new snow is sitting on top of old, weak snow. Getting caught in even a small avalanche can have serious consequences given the shallow conditions and numerous obstacles present just below the surface.

Regions covered