Avalanche forecast

Turnagain Pass and Girdwood

Chugach National Forest Avalanche Center
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Avalanche danger

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Out of date — this forecast expired 2 years ago.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

Highlights

Glide cracks which release into avalanches are still our main concern in Turnagain Pass. These cracks and avalanches are littering the popular slopes in this zone. Look for a "brown frown" on the slope and avoid spending any time underneath if possible. It is unlikely we could trigger an old wind slab on a steep slope.

Avalanche problems

  • Glide Cracks

    • Alpine
    • Treeline
    • Below treeline
    Likelihood
    Possible
    Size
    2–3

    New glide cracks and avalanches are still appearing in Turnagain Pass. Avoidance of these large and destructive avalanches that release spontaneously is a safe strategy. If traveling underneath one of these "brown frowns" can't be avoided, we recommend coming up with a plan that includes having a spotter and traveling quickly and one at a time.

    It is becoming increasingly difficult to avoid traveling underneath glide cracks this season. New cracks are opening where skin tracks and ski tracks have been laid. It can be helpful to take a good look at our routes from the road and as we climb, to determine whether the skin track we are used to taking is safe, or if it is in harm's way. A new route might be a fun adventure for the day.

    Besides these pesky glides the snowpack is generally stable. There's a small chance a person could trigger an old small windslab in steep terrain.

    (11/25/2024)

    As of Monday, November 25 the south face of Sunburst is almost continuous glide cracks and avalanches.

    Photo: Mik Dalpes

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