Avalanche forecast

Snake River Range

Bridger-Teton Avalanche Center
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Avalanche danger

Sat
Alpine
2 · Moderate
Treeline
2 · Moderate
Below
1 · Low
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Out of date — this forecast expired 5 months ago. You’re viewing past conditions, not the current bulletin.

Highlights

Triggering a large avalanche 2-3 feet deep is possible today on very steep slopes. The danger is greatest in shady terrain above 8000 feet where weak snow remains preserved and buried.  Small avalanches on steep, upper elevation terrain exposed to the wind are also possible. Evaluate steep slopes carefully and use caution around wind-affected terrain. Identify terrain traps where even small avalanches could bury you.

Avalanche problems

  • Persistent Slabs

    • Alpine
    • Treeline
    • Below treeline
    Likelihood
    Possible
    Size
    1.5–2.5

    Weak snow formed in January is buried 2 to 3 feet deep below a hard slab. It is becoming less likely that you will impact these weak layers, but it is still possible on very steep northerly slopes. Pockets of buried surface hoar near the top of the drought facet layer are most concerning. The distribution of this buried surface hoar is spotty, but mostly between 8,000 and 9,500 feet on very steep (35°+), shady, and sheltered terrain. Identify terrain with these characteristics and evaluate carefully. Keep an eye out for very steep terrain traps around creek gullies that often harbor surface hoar.

    (3/8/2026) Prater Canyon - North 8300’ (X=Snowmobile)

    This avalanche was triggered yesterday from the bottom of this sheltered, convex slope which had a skin and ski tracks on it. The avalanche partially buried three riders, one to the chest. A thick ice crust was on the snow surface. 

  • Wind Slabs

    • Alpine
    • Treeline
    • Below treeline
    Likelihood
    Possible
    Size
    1–1.5

    Several inches of snow fell in the last few days. Strong southwest and westerly winds have built shallow slabs on leeward aspects above 9,000 feet and will continue moving snow today. Slabs will most likely be small and less than a foot thick, but could be reactive to the weight of a single rider. Small wind slab avalanches could easily knock you over above consequential terrain. Look for drifting snow and shooting cracks around ridgelines and rocky outcrops.

    (2/26/2026)

    Watch for small wind slab develpment below ridges and cliffs.

    Photo: Bridger-Teton Avalanche Center

Avalanche Discussion

The freezing level was around 8000 feet overnight. We have not had much new snow below this elevation to cause major concern for wet-snow avalanche problems. Crusts at middle elevations will break down as temperatures climb today. If you travel in steep terrain below 8,500 feet and find wet surface conditions or see rollerballs coming from your skis, move to lower-angle terrain. 

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