Northern San Juan

You could trigger an avalanche where the wind drifts the new snow into thicker slabs over weaker snow layers. Northerly and easterly-facing slopes at upper elevations are most concerning. Be suspect of terrain features where you observe cracking or audible collapses. Wind-drifted slabs will feel stiff and have rounded, smooth, and pillow-like features.

You may trigger an avalanche from a distance or below a slope so be aware of steeper terrain overhead. You can find safer travel options at lower elevations, on wind-sheltered slopes less than about 30 degrees, and slopes without overhead hazards.