Salt River and Wyoming Ranges

Avalanche conditions are generally safe and large avalanches are unlikely at all elevations. Small wet avalanches may become possible on very steep and sunny slopes as the day heats up. Move to low angle terrain and limit overhead exposure if you encounter wet, slushy snow later in the day. Continue to give cornices a wide margin while traveling.

Temperatures are starting out around 5 degrees warmer today than yesterday, though still well below freezing. Cold temperatures and clear skies over the past two nights have resulted in solid refreezes of the upper snowpack and the avalanche danger has decreased as a result. Daytime high temperatures today are forecasted to be 5-10 degrees warmer than yesterday,  skies are expected to be clear, and winds will be light. Snow surfaces on sunny slopes will likely soften by afternoon, but any wet avalanche activity should be limited and small considering the good overnight freeze and modest daytime temperatures. Still, it is important to evaluate the condition of the snow surface as you travel today. Sinking deeply into wet, slushy snow indicates that the potential for a wet avalanche exists. Exiting the mountains early and giving cornices a wide berth continues to be a good call in the spring even during periods of Low avalanche danger.

The warming trend will continue over the next two days. Expect an increase in avalanche danger on Tuesday and Wednesday afternoons as warming becomes more significant.

Human Factor 2.0 Backcountry Recreation Survey: For years, the avalanche community has worked to understand and address the human factors that influence decision-making in the backcountry.  A current project involves interviewing backcountry recreationalists traveling in avalanche terrain for at least one season. All participants will be entered to win some great raffle prizes (from Jones Snowboards, BCA, and more!).

Please consider taking 1-2 minutes to fill out our basic initial survey.