Southern San Juan

Avalanche conditions are generally safe. If you were to trigger an avalanche, it would be in previously wind-drifted snow on steep slopes at upper elevations. You will find deeper drifts on northerly and east-facing slopes. Wind-drifted snow often feels stiff and sounds hollow. Cracking in drifted snow is a sign of an unstable slope. Slopes protected from the wind offer safer and more enjoyable backcountry travel.

Your chances of triggering loose avalanches increase on slopes where the snowpack continues to deteriorate. To avoid this issue, steer clear of steep near and below treeline slopes that are fully cohesionless.