Steamboat & Flat Tops

You can trigger an avalanche where strong winds drifted snow into leeward terrain features. The most dangerous slopes are at upper elevations, but you may find drifts further down the slope than expected. Bulbous, lens-shaped pillows of snow and recent cornice formation are signs of wind-loading. Look for and avoid recently wind-loaded slopes below ridgelines or convex rollovers and inside gully features. Seek wind-sheltered slopes for safer options, especially if you see recent avalanche activity or cracking within the new snow.