Persistent Slabs
N
NE
E
SE
S
SW
W
NW
- Alpine
- Treeline
- Below treeline
- Likelihood
- Possible
- Size
- 1–2
Use caution on high-elevation, northerly to east-facing slopes. You can find older, dense slabs of snow or softer, recently drifted snow resting on collapsible weak layers near the ground on these slopes. The most likely place to trigger an avalanche is just below ridgelines and in gully features. These spots will look filled-in, rounded, or like a pillow. Unfortunately, these are the same slopes with enough snow to look like enticing riding. The easiest way to avoid avalanches is to stick to slopes less than about 30 degrees without overhead hazards.