Avalanche forecast

Soldier & Wood River Valley Mtns

Sawtooth Avalanche Center
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Avalanche danger

Wed
Alpine
1 · Low
Treeline
1 · Low
Below
1 · Low
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Out of date — this forecast expired last year. You’re viewing past conditions, not the current bulletin.

Highlights

Conditions are generally safe and large avalanches are unlikely. You're most likely to get into trouble on northerly slopes with variable snowpack depths. Small wet slides may become possible as the day warms up on slopes sheltered from the wind.

Avalanche problems

  • Persistent Slabs

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

    It's been three weeks since the last large slab avalanche occurred in this zone. Triggering a big slide on weak snow buried in February is unlikely but can't be completely ruled out. You probably won't experience obvious signs of instability, like snowpack cracking and collapsing, before triggering one of these avalanches. Terrain where you are most likely to find this problem is on steep, open slopes facing the northern half of the compass with variable snow depths, especially in the thinner snowpacks around the Wood River Valley.

    Large cornices dropping onto slopes are another possible way to awaken a deeper slab avalanche, so give them a wide berth.

     

    (2/18/2025) A skier on Patterson Pk near Hailey triggered this large avalanche. After several turns on the slope, the slide broke above and around them. Thankfully, the skier was able to ski ahead and to the side of the slab. NW @ 8,050'. Photo: Sawtooth Avalanche Center

Avalanche Discussion

The snowpack is generally stable and avalanches are unlikely. Continue to use normal backcountry caution—make a plan before heading out, carry the appropriate avalanche safety equipment, and remain alert for unexpected conditions. Put in plain words—keep your wits about you and don't get lazy!

You may find cold, dry snow in upper elevation, due N-facing terrain, but be on the lookout for small pockets of old wind drifted snow that could be consequential in extreme terrain. Overnight temperatures in the mid to low 20s F, combined with clear skies, mean the snowpack will be starting the day with a hard, frozen surface. Highs are forecast to be in the warm-but-not-hot range, with consistent light to moderate winds. These factors will limit the possibility—and potential size—of wet loose slides. Still, pay attention to how much the snow surface is melting and if you're starting to sink into wet mush, it's time to head for colder slopes or lower-angled terrain. There are also some behemoths of cornices out there, and many are sagging due to the recent warm temperatures. Be careful while traveling near large cornices, and limit the time you spend in consequential terrain directly below them.

We're expecting a bump in avalanche danger tomorrow through Thursday with the arrival of a much anticipated spring storm. This system will impact all zones with 6-12" of new snow and strong winds. Tune in tomorrow morning for more details on what to expect. 

Regions covered