Turnagain Pass and Girdwood
Danger d’avalanche
Points saillants
The avalanche danger is Low at all elevations. It has been a while since we have received snow or heard reports of avalanche activity. Keep in mind that Low danger does not mean no danger, especially on steep wind-loaded slopes in the alpine and in wind exposed places at mid elevations. The snowpack is thinner in Girdwood Valley and warrants a more careful approach into the backcountry. Safe travel practices are always recommended in avalanche terrain regardless of danger rating.
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We are excited to roll out some changes to our Chugach State Park forecast product beginning this weekend. We will begin issuing a full avalanche forecast with a danger rating, avalanche problems, and a 24-hour outlook on Saturday mornings at 7 am. We'll continue issuing a forecast one day per week (Saturday mornings) through the end of the season. We will test this for the remainder of the season and reassess in the spring. Thanks for bearing with us as we take this next step to continue to grow the program!
Avalanche Discussion
Recent Avalanches: It has been eight days since there were two reported avalanches in the Girdwood Valley (here and here). Otherwise it has been 13 days since avalanches falling on a deeper weak layer were reported.
We are dropping the avalanche danger to Low in Turnagain Pass due to lack of snowfall and avalanche activity. It will be unlikely to trigger a small wind slab avalanche around 1’ deep in steep alpine terrain and on wind exposed slopes at mid elevations. There is also a small chance of triggering a large avalanche on a layer of weak faceted snow buried 2 to 6’ deep. That being said, the snowpack in Girdwood Valley is thinner and weaker than in Turnagain Pass, so even on Low avalanche danger days, it makes sense to be more careful if you get out around Girdwood. Keep in mind that Low danger does not mean no danger. Safe travel practices are always recommended regardless of danger rating. This includes spacing out, using safe zones, and exposing one person at a time in avalanche terrain.