Sawatch

Steep wind-drifted slopes are the most likely places to trigger an avalanche. Problematic slabs of stiffer, drifted snow often form below ridges, cornices, or along the sides of steeper chutes. If you move from soft, cohesionless snow to denser or hollow-sounding snow, you've found the slab and may be entering hazardous terrain. Stick to lower-angle slopes and wind-sheltered terrain to reduce your risk.