The following provides basic information on avalanches and local Aspen area mountains
An avalanche is a mass of snow sliding down a mountainside. Avalanches
are also called snowslides; there is no difference in these terms. An
avalanche occurs when the stress (from gravity) trying to pull the snow
downhill exceeds the strength (from bonds between snow grains) of the
snow cover. The avalanche danger increases with major snowstorms and
periods of thaw. The most avalanche-prone months are, in order,
February, March, and January. Avalanches caused by thaw occur most
often in April.
About 90% of all avalanches start on slopes of 30-45 degrees; about 98%
of all avalanches occur on slopes of 25-50 degrees. Avalanches release
most often on slopes above timberline that face away from prevailing
winds (leeward slopes collect snow blowing from the windward sides of
ridges.) However, avalanches can occur on small slopes well below
timberline, such as gullies, road cuts, and small openings in the
trees. Very dense trees can anchor the snow to steep slopes and prevent
avalanches from starting; however, avalanches can release and travel
through a moderately dense forest.
Most avalanches occur in the backcountry, outside of developed ski
areas. The Aspen Skiing Company does an excellent job of avalanche
control inside the boundaries of the local ski areas. But if you are
going to ski in the backcountry you can reliably avoid avalanches by
recognizing and avoiding avalanche terrain. You cannot entirely
eliminate risk, but you can minimize risk by using appropriate skiing
technique, carrying and knowing how to use avalanche rescue gear; and
turning back or altering your route if you detect signs of unstable
snow.
The danger of avalanches on Castle Creek Road between miles 3 and 4 is HIGH most of the winter.Preparedness Information ||
Avalanche Updates ||
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