Avalanche forecast

Vail & Summit County

Colorado Avalanche Information Center
View on map

Avalanche danger

Wed
Thu
Alpine
3 · Considerable
Treeline
3 · Considerable
Below
2 · Moderate
Open full map
Out of date — this forecast expired 6 months ago. You’re viewing past conditions, not the current bulletin.

Avalanche problems

  • Persistent Slabs

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

  • Loose Wet

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

Avalanche Summary

You can trigger an avalanche on slopes with a buried weak layer. The avalanche you trigger is likely to be 2 to 3 feet deep on either drifted or non-drifted slopes. You may get no warning signs, like cracking or collapsing, before you trigger a deadly avalanche, potentially from below. On slopes that face northwest through east to southeast, avoid being on or connected to slopes steeper than 30 degrees.

Warm temperatures mean snow can shed off steep sunny aspects. Gullies with lots of exposed rocks to heat up will be the first to slide. If you are in steep terrain and see roller balls, or you are sinking into wet snow past your ankles, head to cooler slopes.

On March 7th, a backcountry skier was caught and killed in an avalanche near Vail Pass. The avalanche released on a northeast-facing slope near treeline, about 2 feet deep. Our deepest condolences to the deceased skier's family, friends, and community. You can read the preliminary accident report here.

Regions covered