Avalanche forecast

Togwotee Pass

Bridger-Teton Avalanche Center
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Avalanche danger

Thu
Alpine
3 · Considerable
Treeline
2 · Moderate
Below
No rating
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Out of date — this forecast expired 2 years ago. You’re viewing past conditions, not the current bulletin.

Highlights

Dangerous avalanche conditions exist. New snowfall and increasing wind are stressing a weak and shallow snowpack. You are likely to trigger an avalanche today on steep slopes, especially in wind affected areas. Avalanches can be triggered remotely—from below, above, and to the sides of steeper terrain. Steer clear of gulleys and terrain traps. 

Avalanche problems

  • Wind Slabs

    • Alpine
    • Treeline
    • Below treeline
    Likelihood
    Very Likely
    Size
    1–2

    This storm has brought over a foot of snow to Togwotee. Consistent westerly winds overnight have continued to build slabs. Winds will increase throughout the day and could gust up to 40 mph by this afternoon on Togwotee pass.  Expect to find drifts up to 2 feet thick in terrain exposed to the wind. As you ride, avoid thick pillows and watch for cracking. Terrain traps should be given a wide berth and even small slopes above creek beds and roads could bury you and your sled.

    (12/17/2024)

    Recent avalanche in terrain affected by the wind. 8700' E aspect.

    Photo: Alex Drinkard

  • Storm Slabs

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

    Many aspects and elevations hold new snow sitting on a variety of weak snow types. Only the lowest elevation slopes that were bare ground before this storm have escaped this problem on Togwotee. Slabs could be triggered from a distance or wait until you have committed to the slope to release. New snow will continue to settle into a more cohesive slab, aided by warming temperatures. Slabs will be thicker, stiffer, and more dangerous in terrain where increasing wind will continue to move snow. Trench your sled or dig down and identify where the weak snow exists–it will be easy to find.

     

    (12/17/2024)

    9400' N aspect

    Photo: Alex Drinkard

Avalanche Discussion

We are on the tail end of a large storm that has stressed a very weak snowpack. Multiple avalanches have been observed on Togwotee. Avalanches may break wider than you expect and be unpredictable. Be conservative with decisions around steep slopes today - it will take time for the snowpack to adjust to the new load.

Many obstacles remain hidden just below the snow surface. Rocks, stumps, and logs create a serious hazard for riders and can cause significant trauma to you or your sled. Keep this hazard in mind as you travel today and consider the consequences of an injury in the backcountry. Talk with your partners about contingency plans and what emergency equipment you have in your pack.

Please consider reporting avalanches or field observations here. Please consider reporting avalanches or field observations here. Your observations help us handle snow and avalanche conditions better and make more accurate forecasts. Thanks!

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