Grand Mesa

The most dangerous areas are slopes that are generally thinner than the surrounding area and face northwest through north to east. This could be a wind-scoured northwest-facing slope, an uneven, rocky slope, or a slope that avalanched earlier this year. Here, it is easier for your skis, feet, or machine to impact an unusual, weak layer of snow that is typically buried two to three feet below the snow surface. If you choose to travel on steep northerly or easterly slopes, stick to smooth, planar slopes without terrain traps such as a creek, a gully, or a cliff below you.