Be Avalanche Aware

Natural avalanche slide on a slope

NPS Photo/D.Turk

What is an Avalanche?

An avalanche is a mass of snow, often mixed with ice and debris, that moves down an inclined slope of a mountain. An avalanche can be triggered by changes in precipitation or temperature, skiers, snowshoers, or even wildlife.

Avalanches can occur on any slope and hazards may not be clearly visible.

Many winter trails are located near and/or within avalanche terrain. Avalanches can be triggered by snowshoers, winter hikers, skiers and wildlife.

Before heading out into the backcountry, make sure that everyone in your group is avalanche aware. All members of your party are advised to have the rescue equipment, education, and experience to make informed decisions about traveling in avalanche terrain.

Avalanche Forecasts and Information

For avalanche forecast information, visit the Colorado Avalanche Information Center (CAIC) webpage at https://avalanche.state.co.us/ and follow them on social media.