Avalanche forecast

Togwotee Pass

Bridger-Teton Avalanche Center
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Avalanche danger

Mon
Alpine
3 · Considerable
Treeline
3 · Considerable
Below
No rating
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Out of date — this forecast expired 2 years ago. You’re viewing past conditions, not the current bulletin.

Highlights

Dangerous avalanche conditions exist. Human triggered avalanches are likely in steep terrain above 8,000’ today. Natural avalanches are also possible. Travel in avalanche terrain requires careful route finding, keeping slope angles below 30 degrees, and an awareness of terrain above.

An avalanche warning is in effect until 6pm tonight. This warning will likely extend into tomorrow.

Avalanche problems

  • Wind Slabs

    • Alpine
    • Treeline
    • Below treeline
    Likelihood
    Likely
    Size
    1–2

    New snow and moderate winds over the past 72 hours have created unstable conditions. Human triggered avalanches are likely in terrain steeper than 30 degrees. Slabs will be up to 1 foot deep in sheltered areas, and up to 2 feet deep in wind-loaded terrain at the upper elevations. Temperatures warming to near freezing will increase the sensitivity of these slabs today. Natural avalanches are possible. Carefully evaluate the recent snow for signs of instability. Cracking, collapsing, and recent avalanches are all obvious signs of instability. Give steep terrain a wide berth as you travel and avoid crossing, or lingering under avalanche paths. Groomed snowmobile trails that travel under steep terrain should be approached with caution given the potential for natural avalanches initiating above and impacting the trails.

    (12/27/2024)

    Winds had transported snow from southern aspects onto northern aspects at 9400'.

    Photo: Cameron Galt

  • Persistent Slabs

    • Alpine
    • Treeline
    • Below treeline
    Likelihood
    Possible
    Size
    1–2

    Weak snow that formed in early December is now buried 1-2 feet deep and is weakest in shaded terrain on the north half of the compass. Avalanches involving the new snow have the potential to step down to these layers, producing large avalanches. Snowmobiles and groups can also act as large triggers and have a greater chance of impacting these layers. While avalanches involving weak snow near the base of the ground are not likely to be widespread yet, recent events are a good reminder to be vigilant today.

    An avalanche failing on weak snow in the Togwotee area. Terrain traps like this gully should be avoided today.

Avalanche Discussion

A prolonged winter storm is impacting the Togwotee Pass area. Three day storm totals are sitting around a foot with more expected today and tonight. The snowpack in this region was particularly shallow and weak before this storm and the new snow is adding considerable weight to it. Expect to find instability in the new snow, but also remember that weak snow lurks below and could easily create a large avalanche. Practice safe travel habits today, and avoid steep slopes that roll over into gullies and creek beds. It’s best to dial back terrain choices as the storm continues today.

If you see avalanche activity today, please consider submitting an observation HERE. Observations allow everyone to gain a better and more complete understanding of conditions. Thanks!

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