Togwotee Pass

Riders have the potential to trigger an avalanche that fails on weak layers near the ground in very steep terrain today. Rocky and wind affected slopes on the north half of the compass are most suspect. Carefully evaluate the snowpack for buried weak layers and avoid consequential slopes that end in a gully or other terrain trap.

Clear skies prevail across the Togwotee zone after a Snowy December and early January. Snowfall tapered off on January 9th and since then the upper snowpack has largely stabilized. Moderate to strong westerly winds with varying direction have continued to erode and stiffen snow surfaces above 10,000’. There is little to no loose snow available for transport in the upper elevations leaving only isolated pockets of potentially unstable wind slabs in the highest reaches of the zone.

Weak, faceted snow that formed in November still poses a threat in certain pieces of very steep terrain despite numerous tracks suggesting otherwise. While the likelihood of triggering an avalanche on this layer continues to decrease with time, it cannot be ruled out completely. The last reported human triggered avalanche involving facets near the ground occurred on December 31st in Maverick Creek. This avalanche caught and partially buried the rider in a tight gully feature. Stability tests continue to show the potential for reactivity on this layer where the snowpack is shallow and weak. Terrain traps including tight gullies and rocky, unsupported slopes should be avoided. The recent fatality in the southern Salt River range is a sobering reminder that an isolated and relatively small avalanche in consequential terrain can have a tragic outcome. Practice safe travel habits and remain vigilant as you travel today.