Northern San Juan

Strong westerly winds with plenty of snow to transport will increase your chances of triggering an avalanche at upper elevations. You can trigger an avalanche 1 to 3 feet deep where drifted snow forms cohesive slabs on slopes steeper than around 35 degrees. The most dangerous slopes are where drifted snow stacks above shallow, buried weak layers. On these slopes, avalanches in the news snow may break deeper and broader. Shooting cracks and hard-feeling snow underfoot or machine indicate you have found a slab of drifted snow.

Avoid overhanging cornices as they can break further back than expected.