East Slopes Central

Conditions remain largely unchanged with high pressure firmly in place. Repeated melt–freeze cycles have kept avalanche concerns low, while creating firm, slick surfaces. With snow coverage thinning, exposed rocks, creeks, and other natural obstacles now pose the greatest hazard for mountain travel.

Clear nights and sunny days continue to stack up as this stagnant weather pattern shows no signs of breaking. An ongoing melt–freeze cycle has helped stabilize the upper snowpack, leading to generally safe avalanche conditions. Still, a low danger rating isn’t a free pass. Isolated hazards remain possible: a cornice could give way, snow may shed from steep rocky features, or you may be able to push a small wet loose slide during the warmest part of the afternoon. These scenarios are unlikely, but they’re not impossible. Don't turn your brain off - if conditions don’t match what you expected, pause and reassess.

Each night, the snow surface continues to refreeze, even in places where air temperatures hover above freezing. Expect firm, icy conditions first thing in the morning, where a slip could quickly turn into a long, uncontrolled slide. Temperature inversions, valley fog, and light easterly winds may keep some slopes locked up longer than anticipated. While sun-exposed terrain should eventually soften, shaded aspects often remain hard all day.

Don’t be misled by cold temperatures at trailheads. Many mid and upper-elevation sites haven’t dropped below freezing in days. Last weekend’s rain, combined with sustained warmth and sunshine, has significantly thinned the snowpack. Travel is especially challenging at lower elevations and on south-facing slopes, where bare ground, open creeks, holes, and downed timber are widespread. With icy surfaces and numerous obstacles, movement through the mountains may pose a greater risk than avalanches themselves. Until winter returns, take advantage of the clear weather, choose terrain carefully, and enjoy the views.