Loose Wet
N
NE
E
SE
S
SW
W
NW
- Alpine
- Treeline
- Below treeline
- Likelihood
- Likely
- Size
- 1–2
These avalanche will be largest on slopes with the most new snow.
Avalanche forecast
View on mapBridger Range
Gallatin NF Avalanche Center
Avalanche danger
Alpine
3 · Considerable
Treeline
3 · Considerable
Below
2 · Moderate
Out of date — this forecast expired 5 months ago. You’re viewing past conditions, not the current bulletin.
Highlights
Don’t be fooled by the blue skies and mild temperatures - avalanche conditions are dangerous today. Plan to get off steep slopes as the new snow gets wet and sticky, because that means large Wet Loose avalanches are imminent. Dig down and check how well the new snow is bonded before riding a steep slope where the new snow is still dry.
Avalanche problems
Wind Slabs
NNEESESSWWNW- Alpine
- Treeline
- Below treeline
- Likelihood
- Likely
- Size
- 1–2
Avalanche Discussion
Today, wet snow is the main story. The 1-2 ft of fresh powder we got over the last week is going to go through an abrupt transition today as it gets hit by direct sun for the first time (Cooke City video).
This morning, you might still be able to trigger an avalanche in this week’s new and wind drifted snow (example of avalanches yesterday near Cooke City and in the Bridgers). On most slopes the new snow will be well bonded, but it’s still worth digging down to double check before riding a steep slope where the new snow remains dry.
Definitely by this afternoon (and likely even by mid-morning) the new snow is going to be getting wet, sticky, and start releasing as Wet Loose avalanches, particularly on the slopes getting the most direct sun. With so much soft new snow and firm ice crusts beneath it, these slides will grow large and run long distances. Slides you trigger will likely start at your feet and run below you, but they will also be releasing naturally, especially below exposed rocks or trees, so they could come down on you from above as well. Do not discount the power of these slides. They could easily push you into trees or rocks or bury you, especially in a gully or other terrain trap.
Riding conditions will deteriorate as avalanche conditions become more dangerous. Enjoy the last of the powder before things heat up this morning and get off steep slopes as soon as the new snow gets wet, sticky, and you start to see roller balls because that means big, wet loose avalanches are imminent.
The avalanche danger is CONSIDERABLE across the whole forecast area.
NOTE about Bridger Bowl - The ski area is now closed and open for uphill travel with backcountry conditions. There is no ski patrol performing avalanche mitigation or ready to help if you get hurt. Our terrain selection has to be different than when the ski area is operating. Even a small avalanche can sweep you off your feet and over cliffs and rocks causing major trauma.