Sangre de Cristo

You can trigger an avalanche where recent wind-drifted snow formed stiff slabs on a variety of weak layers. The most dangerous slopes face northerly or easterly, including open areas below the treeline which are not typically subject to drifting. Avalanches in the upper snowpack can break into weak layers close to the ground taking out the entire season's snowpack.

Fresh cornices, rounded pillows of snow, or a sculpted snow surface are signs of suspect slopes. Sheltered slopes less than thirty degrees without steep slopes above provide safer options.

On Saturday, two backcountry skiers triggered and were killed in an avalanche near Vallecito Reservoir, while a snowmobiler triggered and was killed in an avalanche near La Manga Pass. You can read the preliminary reports here and here. Our deepest condolences go out to the family and friends of the people involved in this tragic accident.