Steamboat & Flat Tops

Have extra caution on any steep slope where you find more than about 8-10 inches of new or wind-drifted snow. Easterly-facing slopes will be more dangerous as this is where winds have deposited snow. Observers have reported avalanches running very easily and large in size on slopes close to 30 degrees. Look for and avoid rounded pillows of snow that crack or collapse. The avalanche you trigger in the surface could step down to deeper weak layers, especially on slopes with a shallower snowpack. You can find safer riding on slopes less than about 30 degrees.