Avalanche forecast

Togwotee Pass

Bridger-Teton Avalanche Center
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Avalanche danger

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Out of date — this forecast expired 2 years ago.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

Highlights

Triggering a slab avalanche remains possible, and the resulting slide could involve most of the winter’s snowpack. As the likelihood of triggering an avalanche gradually decreases, continue to make your terrain selections accordingly and be alert to the consequences of being caught in a slide where you are traveling.  Avalanches are unlikely below 9,000, where the avalanche danger is low.

Avalanche problems

  • Persistent Slabs

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

    Hard slabs 1-3 feet thick that sit over weak snow remain a lingering issue today. It has been just over 2 weeks since the last human-triggered avalanche was reported on Togwotee, which resulted in a fatality.  Though time is decreasing the likelihood of triggering a large avalanche, take a minute to look at the snow structure of what you are riding and where that problem snow can be found on the problem diagram above. If you're finding weak snow at the base of the snowpack under your skis or sled, it's best to steer clear of any steep slopes--even if these may appear unsuspectingly small, like the steep creeksides and gullies that are common around Togwotee. This is a low probability but very high consequence setup. 

    (1/16/2025)

    An example of terrain where persistent slab avalanches are most likely.

    Photo: Bridger-Teton Avalanche Center

Avalanche Discussion

Snowpit tests continue to show propagation potential in these deeper weak layers. Developing and practicing good travel habits is important during these quiet periods, as those habits will become more crucial during periods of heightened avalanche activity. Use simple tools, like taking more time to assess slopes, when dealing with this avalanche problem. We can use time to create more options, reduce uncertainty, and optimize timing. Right now, we've got nothing but time and much of winter still ahead--so dialing in how communication flows in your group, taking time to look at the snow beneath your skis or sled, and looking through the season's observations or Togwotee. Take time to understand the character and pattern of avalanche activity here. This will be a tool to enable your riding and help you manage risk as the season progresses.

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