Front Range

Avoiding rounded pillows of newly drifted snow is the best way to reduce your chances of triggering an avalanche. Cracking is a good indication of dangerous snow. Close to ridgelines and gullies in the alpine are where you are most likely to trigger a slide. Pay attention to drifting into unusual locations also. Slopes sheltered from the wind offer safer and better riding. Below the treeline, pay attention to steep slopes where you find a cohesionless snowpack above terrain traps.