Sangre de Cristo

Strong winds have drifted layers of hard snow over weak snow near the ground on easterly-facing slopes near and above treeline. These are the most dangerous spots. Avoid areas where you see signs of recent wind-loading such as fresh cornices, smooth rounded drifts of snow, or a hard, hollow-sounding snow surface. If you trigger an avalanche in the wind-drifted snow it can step down to deeper buried weak layers. Be especially careful in steep areas below ridgelines. Seek out wind-sheltered slopes at lower elevations for safer conditions.