Northern San Juan

Heavy snow and strong winds forming dense slabs onto a weak, early-season snowpack is the perfect recipe to trigger a large avalanche. Northerly-facing slopes near and above treeline harbor a thick layer of old, faceted snow below the new snow, and where you will find the most dangerous conditions. Look for and avoid smooth-rounded pillows of drifted snow adjacent to ridgelines and in steep gullies. Steer clear of slopes where you observe cracking in the snow surface or hear audible collapses.

The rise in avalanche danger works its way down in elevation as the storm plays out. Lower-angled or southerly-facing slopes offer safer travel options.