Bridger Range

Avalanches are possible where 4-6” of new snow is drifted into stiffer slabs up to one foot deep. Today’s snow fell on top of weak snow that formed during recent cold, dry weather. This makes avalanches possible even where the new snow is not drifted, or only slightly stiffened by the wind. If you’ve been taking advantage of recent good stability to ski or ride bigger, steeper terrain, today is the day to take a step back and find smaller, less consequential, or lower angle slopes.

In the Bridger Range wind slab avalanches are possible where the new snow is drifted into stiffer slabs up to one foot deep. Today’s snow fell on top of weak, faceted snow that formed throughout the forecast area during recent cold, dry weather (observation, observation, observation). This persistent weak layer makes avalanches possible even where the new snow is not drifted, or only slightly stiffened by the wind. Wind slabs might break easier if they formed over weak snow, and softer slabs might break wider than usual. Dry loose slides should also be expected with the low density snow resting on weak or firm snow surfaces. 

There is a MODERATE avalanche danger in the Bridger Range. Watch for signs of instability and evaluate the consequences of an avalanche before crossing steep slopes. If you’ve been taking advantage of the recent good stability to ski or ride bigger, steeper terrain, today is the day to take a step back and find smaller, less consequential, or lower angle slopes.

Avalanche danger is MODERATE at upper elevations near Cooke City and in the Northern Gallatin Range where 2-4” of snow from last night and earlier in the week is drifted into thicker slabs. These wind slabs will be small and mostly exist at upper elevations along ridgelines and below cornices. Be on the lookout for fresh drifts and avoid them on steep slopes, especially if the consequences of a slide would be large due to being carried into rocks, trees, gullies, or over cliffs.

In the Madison Range, Southern Gallatin Range, Lionhead area near West Yellowstone, and Island Park only 1-2” of snow fell over the last week, the avalanche danger is LOW, and avalanches are unlikely. Be on the lookout for isolated wind drifts that could knock you off your feet, especially if you find more recent snow than reported. Follow normal safe travel protocols of only exposing one person at a time to steep slopes, having a partner watch from a safe spot, and carrying proper rescue gear.