Vail & Summit County

Avoid steep slopes with wind-drifted snow. These rounded pillows of firm, hollow snow may crack and collapse under your weight. Snow drifts are most likely to be found beneath corniced ridges and in the tops and sides of gullies. In steep terrain, sluffs could take you off your feet resulting in a nasty ride in cliffy areas.

Although unlikely, smaller avalanches and cornice falls onto slopes can trigger avalanches that break on deeper layers. Give overhanging cornices and shallow rocky slopes a wide berth. You can find safer riding in areas with soft wind-sheltered snow and on lower-angled terrain.