Avalanche forecast

Togwotee Pass

Bridger-Teton Avalanche Center
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Avalanche danger

Fri
Alpine
1 · Low
Treeline
1 · Low
Below
No rating
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Out of date — this forecast expired 3 years ago. You’re viewing past conditions, not the current bulletin.

Highlights

Avalanches are unlikely today and the danger is Low. Triggering an avalanche 1-3 feet deep in steep upper elevation terrain cannot be ruled out. Low avalanche danger does not mean that there is no avalanche danger.

Avalanche problems

  • Persistent Slabs

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

    Last Saturday, a snowmobile triggered avalanche was reported on a north aspect at 9,800 feet near Gunsight Pass in the Greys River forecast zone.  This avalanche failed on weak snow buried 3 feet beneath the surface.  The incident is a good reminder that despite a generally Low avalanche danger, there still exists the remote possibility of triggering an avalanche in steep, upper elevation terrain, especially where wind has transported snow. The avalanche highlights the need to remain vigilant, even in times of Low danger.  Remember to only expose one person at a time, use islands of safety and watch your partners when entering into avalanche terrain.  

    (12/30/2023)

    Snowmobile triggered avalanche on a north aspect at 9800'. Triggered by rider topping out on the slope. No one was caught or carried in this avalanche.

    Photo: Shane Copeland

Avalanche Discussion

The snowpack structure is poor in many locations. Weak snow near the bottom of the snowpack lingers as a potential problem.  While unlikely, the remote possibility exists for triggering an avalanche on this layer. Snowpit tests continue to show this potential, despite the absence of avalanche activity and other red flags such as collapsing or cracking of the snowpack. This lack of activity fits the danger rating of Low but don't be misled and lower your guard. The lingering potential to trigger an avalanche is highlighted by the avalanche near Gunsight Pass five days ago.

Weak snow surfaces will soon be covered by long overdue snowfall. These surface conditions and weak layers buried beneath will, no doubt, produce avalanches when new snow arrives in any significant amount.  A variety of challenges will emerge due to the very poor snowpack stucture, as well as the more recently formed, weak, recrystallized snow at or near the surface.  Knowing exactly when and how large avalanches will occur is a subject of much speculation, without clear and obvious answers. One thing that is certain is the poor snowpack structure will produce avalanches and make for dangerous conditions in the mountains. More on that topic later following this final day of relatively benign condtions.

The number of quality observations this season has been very helpful for the forecast team and the community at large. Many thanks to those of you who have generously shared your time and this invaluable information!

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