Avalanche forecast

Mount Shasta

Mount Shasta Avalanche Center
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Avalanche danger

Tue
Alpine
1 · Low
Treeline
1 · Low
Below
1 · Low
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Out of date — this forecast expired 5 months ago. You’re viewing past conditions, not the current bulletin.

Highlights

The likelihood of encountering wet, unstable snow is low. Nevertheless, isolated pockets may develop on steep slopes where solar input and radiative heating from rocks have softened surfaces. Calculated travel time and terrain selection are key to avoiding mishaps. If you observe rollerballs or punchy, wet snow, reduce your slope angles or seek more supportable surfaces. If climbing, come prepared to arrest a fall and be mindful of overhead hazards. 

Avalanche problems

  • Loose Wet

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

    While signs of unstable snow have been minimal, that doesn’t mean they don’t exist or can’t occur—it may simply be a matter of being in the wrong place at the wrong time. Mitigate this hazard by being off and out of extreme terrain before surfaces become wet and mushy.

    Very steep, sun-exposed slopes near rock outcrops hold the highest potential for small, wet snow instabilities to develop. Use boot penetration on representative aspects to gauge the surface stability of your intended objective.

    If you observe signs that the upper snowpack is losing strength—such as rollerballs, greasy snow over a firm crust, or sinking past your ankles into mushy snow—seek mellower or shadier terrain. Give cornices a wide berth when traveling both above and below them.

    (4/5/2026)

    This photo of Mud Creek is a representative area of “extreme terrain near rock outcrops" that could harbor wet snow instabilites. 

    Photo: Eric Falconer

Avalanche Discussion

A solid overnight refreeze and today's ample sunshine will set the stage for some quality corn snow development in select areas. However, same as with the wet loose problem, stay ahead of the curve with your timing so you can maximize your chances at finding superb riding and sliding conditions.   

Flowering dogwoods and chirping chickadees can only mean one thing. Spring has arrived! While spring is a great time to get out and enjoy the backcountry, don't forget it can hold rapidly changing snow conditions and erratic weather. Bear in mind, “When snow is the problem, terrain is always the solution.” 

If you get out skiing, climbing, or hiking, our observation page is a great place to share your findings and is always a huge value. We'd love to hear from you! 

Climbing: Current hazards include icefall, rockfall, and firm, icy surfaces with slide-for-life potential.  A full mountaineering kit is non‑negotiable: 12‑point crampons (not microspikes), an ice axe, a helmet, and the skills to use them well. We can't stress it enough -- please be prepared and know how to use your equipment. Have the courage to turn around if the weather, your skills, or anything else just doesn't feel right. The mountain will be there next time. Managing risk means recognizing and correcting small issues early, before they compound into a situation with serious consequences. Check the Climbing Advisory page for more details, including updated trailhead access information. As always, feel free to give us a call if you have questions about your trip - 530-926-9614. 

Survey: Researchers Ian McCammon and Sara Boilen are developing new tools for backcountry skiers and boarders to manage human factors. This survey asks about personal experiences with human factors and will take 7-8 minutes to complete. Click HERE to participate. We appreciate your help!

The snowpack may be low, but my gratitude remains high. It's been an honor and a pleasure to forecast for the Mount Shasta Avalanche Center. Wishing everyone a happy spring. Until next year gang! - Falconer 

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