Front Range

You are most likely to trigger an avalanche on wind-drifted northerly and easterly-facing slopes at upper elevations where drifted snow rests above near-surface weak layers. If you trigger an avalanche in the recently drifted snow, it can easily step down to these buried weak layers, resulting in a dangerous slide. These near-surface weak layers can be found on many slopes and can be dangerous because they are gaining strength. Previous tracks on a slope do not mean it is safe. Parties report the second, third, and even fourth person on a slope triggering a slide. You may not see any signs of instability, such as cracking or collapsing before you trigger an avalanche. You can find safer travel options on wind-sheltered and lower-angle slopes.