Grand Mesa

You can trigger an avalanche where you find more than about 10 inches of drifted snow resting over old weak snow. The most dangerous slopes face north to northeast through east near and above treeline. Avalanches may break deeper and wider than you anticipate. Shooting cracks and audible collapses are warning signs and you should move to lower-angle or wind-sheltered terrain. Getting caught in even a small avalanche at this time of year could end badly if it carries you into rocks or other shallowly buried hazards.