Avalanche Safety

Avalanche Safety Tips

What Causes Avalanches? Avalanches are usually caused by a weak layer of snow within the snowpack. This is often the result of a fresh snowfall that has not bonded well with the pre-existing layer of snow beneath of it.

This means that the new snow slab can easily slide off of the layer underneath of it and when this happens; you will see an avalanche.

Weak layers can be caused by many different events. Weak layers can form in December and last throughout the season, so don’t assume that a lack of snowfall will always mean low avalanche conditions

This section contains basic avalanche safety information. This is not a sufficient substitute for an avalanche safety course. You can find a list of avalanche safety course providers by using the links to the right.

Backcountry Guide

Avalanche Safety Guide