Salt River and Wyoming Ranges

Conditions are generally safe, and large avalanches are unlikely. Small wet slides may become possible as the day warms up. If the snow surface turns to wet mush or you observe signs of recent wet avalanche activity, limit your time on or under steep slopes and head for colder aspects or gentler terrain. Use normal backcountry caution & limit time near or under cornices. 

As we shift into a spring diurnal cycle, the importance of timing in the mountains comes into play more prominently, but many of the same midwinter rules still apply—make a plan before heading out, carry the appropriate avalanche safety equipment, and remain alert for unexpected conditions. Put in plain words: keep your wits about you out there!

You may find cold, dry snow in upper elevation, due N-facing terrain, but most slopes are in a melt-freeze cycle. Overnight temps in the teens to low 20s F combined with clear skies mean the snowpack will start the day with a hard, frozen surface. Highs are forecast to be in the warm-but-not-hot range, and we may see a few scattered high clouds cover this afternoon. These factors will limit the possibility—and potential size—of wet slides. Still, pay attention to how much the snow surface is melting. If you're beginning to break through the surface crust or sinking into wet mush, it's time to head for colder slopes or lower-angled terrain. 

Expect a bump in avalanche danger for the coming week as winds shift, lighten, and well-above-freezing tropical mountain temperatures return through Wednesday. 

Human Factor 2.0 Backcountry Recreation Survey: For years, the avalanche community has worked to understand and address the human factors that influence decision-making in the backcountry.  A current project involves interviewing backcountry recreationalists traveling in avalanche terrain for at least one season. All participants will be entered to win some great raffle prizes (from Jones Snowboards, BCA, and more!).

Please take 1-2 minutes to fill out our basic initial survey.