Southern San Juan

You can trigger a dangerous avalanche from the bottom of slopes or a distance. Avalanches may release naturally and run for long distances. Any avalanche you trigger will likely break on weak layers buried 3-5 feet deep and be very dangerous. Upper elevation slopes facing northwest through east to southeast are where you are also more likely to trigger an avalanche in recently wind-drifted snow, which could step down to weaker layers buried more deeply. Look for smooth, lens-shaped pillows, sculpted features, or fresh cornice growth to indicate wind-drifted areas. Safer options exist on lower-elevation southerly slopes. Travel in or under these highlighted slopes is not recommended near and above treeline.