Sawatch

The most dangerous slopes are at upper elevations and face north to east through southeast. These slopes have a weak layer buried several feet deep with a cohesive slab overlaying it. You may see cracking in recently wind-drifted snow, but it is not likely you will see it before a deeper slide breaks. Small slides in the drifted snow can be strong enough to knock you over or push you into hazards you'd rather avoid.

In the afternoon, snow surfaces will become wet on steep southerly-facing terrain. Stick to slopes with dry surfaces to avoid triggering small wet loose avalanches.