Recognizing and Avoiding Avalanche Areas

An avalanche may occur on a snow-covered slope when the strength of the snowpack cannot support the extra weight from a snowmobile, skier, rain, or heavy snowfall.

• Learn to recognize and avoid avalanche terrain such as:
  • Areas where a slope is steeper than 30 degrees
  • Overhanging masses of snow or ice, often found on a ridge
• Observe good safety procedures, especially relating to avalanches.
  • Make a riding plan based on the current avalanche and weather forecast.
  • Choose a route that is close to dense timber, if possible.
  • Travel with a partner or in a group.
    • Ride on the slope one at a time while the rest of the group watches from a safe spot.
    • Make sure each person has appropriate rescue gear, including a shovel, a probe, and a transceiver or beeper.
  • Before crossing an unstable slope, look for possible escape routes should an avalanche occur.
  • Do not park your snowmobile at the bottom of a slope.
  • Do not assist a rider whose sled is stuck on a steep slope. This can add weight to the snow pack and trigger an avalanche.
  • Do not participate in highmarking, which is riding up a steep slope to reach or go over the highest point (mark).