Snowpack and Avalanche Discussion
<p><span><span><span><span><span><span>Any avalanche problems will involve the new snow. Otherwise, the snowpack is generally stable and larger avalanches are unlikely. Skiers or riders can trigger </span></span></span></span></span></span><span><span><span><strong><span><span>wind slab avalanches</span></span></strong></span></span></span><span><span><span><span><span><span>, around 4-8” deep, on steep slopes where the 4-5" of new snow has been drifted into thicker or stiffer slabs. Additionally, </span></span></span></span></span></span><span><span><span><strong><span><span>dry loose</span></span></strong></span></span></span><span><span><span><span><span><span> and </span></span></span></span></span></span><span><span><span><strong><span><span>wet loose</span></span></strong></span></span></span><span><span><span><span><span><span> </span></span></span></span></span></span><span><span><span><strong><span><span>avalanches</span></span></strong></span></span></span><span><span><span><span><span><span> are possible to trigger and could run long distances on firm crusts below the new snow. When the sun comes out, the new snow will quickly get wet and easily slide on steep, sunny slopes.</span></span></span></span></span></span></p>
<p><span><span><span><span><span><span>On Saturday skiers triggered small wind slab avalanches, 3-6” deep and 10-20’ wide, in the northern Bridgers (</span></span></span></span></span></span><a href="https://www.mtavalanche.com/node/34932"><span><span><span><strong><span… and photos</span></span></u></span></strong></span></span></span></a><span><span><span><span><span><span>) and near Cooke City (</span></span></span></span></span></span><a href="https://www.mtavalanche.com/images/25/small-wind-slab-and-dry-loose-sli…;). Today you might encounter similar drifts, or some slightly larger drifts in areas with more new snow.</span></span></span></span></span></span></p>
<p><span><span><span><span><span><span>Slides will be generally small, but any type of avalanche can be hazardous in terrain where they could push you into rocks, trees, over a cliff, or carry you a long way down a steep slope. Before riding steep slopes, assess the terrain for consequences of being knocked over by a small slide. </span></span></span></span></span></span></p>
<p><span><span><span><span><span><span>Be on the lookout for fresh drifts and avoid them, especially in consequential terrain. Monitor the snow surface for wet snow avalanche potential, and if it is becoming moist find lower angle terrain or shadier slopes with drier snow. </span></span></span></span></span></span></p>
<p><span><span><span><span><span><span>Daily forecasts are done for the season, but avalanches will continue. Remain diligent with your snowpack and terrain assessments, and be ready to adapt your plans to changing conditions. See below for more general spring snowpack and travel advice.</span></span></span></span></span></span></p>
Announcements
The Hyalite Canyon Road is closed to ALL MOTORIZED VEHICLES until May 16. This is a regular annual road closure to reduce road damage during the spring thaw. Bicycle and foot traffic are allowed.
