Avalanche danger was high this weekend after all of the snow that fell in the mountains!
Before you head into the backcountry, check with the Avalanche Information Center.
Travel in backcountry avalanche terrain is not recommended in areas with high or considerable danger. Stick to low-angle slopes (under 30 degrees) and areas that are not wind-loaded. Always check the specific, up-to-date forecast on the CAIC website before any backcountry travel
The Colorado Avalanche Information Center (CAIC) provides daily forecasts for specific mountain zones. Conditions can change rapidly, but recent reports highlight the following:
- Northern Mountains (including the Park Range, Flat Tops, and Northern Front Range): These areas have experienced the most significant snow and wind, leading to dangerous conditions, especially in the alpine (above tree line). High danger (Level 4 of 5) was expected in some alpine areas, with widespread Considerable (Level 3 of 5) danger elsewhere due to rapidly formed wind slabs on weak snow layers.
- Central Mountains (including the Elk Mountains, West Elk Mountains, and
- Summit County
- ): Similar to the Northern Mountains, these areas have seen high danger in specific areas like the Ruby and Ragged Ranges, with many other zones at Considerable danger near and above treeline. New snow on weak early-season layers makes human-triggered avalanches likely.
- Southern Mountains (including the San Juan Mountains): Danger is generally Considerable in the alpine of the northwest San Juans and Moderate (Level 2 of 5) elsewhere, as they generally received less snow than the northern areas. However, wind-loaded slopes remain a concern, and avalanches can still be triggered.
