Bridgeport Avalanche Center

Variable snow conditions exist throughout the forecast area, especially above treeline.  Normal caution is advised, as avalanches remain unlikely

Normal Caution:

• Green on the danger scale doesn't mean it's a green light, continue to use smart travel techniques when in avalanche terrain.  Small pockets of unstable terrain may still exist in the alpine, continue to asses slopes for instability as you move through the day. Remind yourself of those best practice travel techniques with this blog post from Wild Snow.com detailing the 10 commandments of low-risk travel in  Bruce Tremper's book " Avalanche Essentials".

• After days of strong winds, the surface conditions have become an assortment of bare slopes, sastrugi,  firm wind board, and a even few pockets of softer snow. Melt-freeze crusts have been noted on southerly aspects as well. The wind has also created many cornice features, especially in the Leavitt Lake area. Give them a large berth from above and below, often the size and the extent of the cornice is hidden by the ridgeline.  Currently, sheltered terrain is providing the best riding conditions, as there is less wind affect or sun affected snow.

• The Mountain Warfare Training Center is in the midst of winter training, be mindful of their presence in the Bridgeport Winter Rec Area. Watch for Marine Corps personnel, Tucker cats, and any informational signs posted in the field.