Northern San Juan

The most dangerous slopes for triggering avalanches are steeper than about 30 degrees, with around 10 inches of new or drifted snow. You can trigger large avalanches in the new snow, and some slides could step down to old buried weak layer, triggering a larger and more dangerous slide, especially below treeline. Avalanches can grow larger on easterly slopes where wind stiffened slabs of snow are thicker and broader across the terrain. Look for and avoid areas that look smooth and rounded. Avoid steep, rocky, southerly slopes as the snow heats up during the day. Make conservative terrain choices and place extra room between you and steeper slopes.