Sawatch

You can trigger a dangerous avalanche on northwest through north to east-facing slopes near and above treeline. Wind-sheltered slopes below treeline offer safer travel options. South-facing slopes will also offer safer travel options, but only in the morning. By the afternoon, the snow will start melting, and you can trigger wet avalanches on south-facing slopes steeper than about 35 degrees. If you are planning on traveling on alpine, south-facing terrain, start and end your day early and watch for rollerballs, natural loose avalanches, and your feet or skis sinking deep into wet snow. These are signs you should avoid very steep terrain.