Industry News
Colorado has seen an uptick in snow totals this season, but more snow totals can often mean unsafe backcountry conditions. In the current month alone, more than 500 avalanches have been reported across the state, according to the Colorado Avalanche Information Center (CAIC). The surge in avalanche activity is largely due to a series of large storms depositing snow on an already weak underlying layer, increasing the likelihood of slides. With this persistent instability, backcountry travelers must remain especially cautious throughout February and leading into early March.
February is often the most dangerous month for avalanche activity in Colorado. This year this number has increased notably with multiple fatal accidents. Accidents like the avalanche on Mines Peak located on Berthoud Pass where one backcountry rider was buried and killed in a large persistent slab slide. Other fatal accidents have been reported in Colorado with an accident in Middle Fork of Mineral Creek, Colorado a town near Silverton Colorado where 2 backcountry tourers were caught and one was killed.
- Related: Avalanche in Colorado’s Backcountry Tragically Kills Snowboarder as Friend Manages to Escape
Colorado’s avalanche conditions are expected to remain hazardous in the coming weeks, with much of the state facing moderate to considerable avalanche danger. The combination of recent heavy snowfall and persistent weak layers in the snowpack has created unstable conditions, increasing the risk for backcountry travelers.
Proper safety practices and preparation are critical for minimizing risks. Skiers, snowboarders, and snowmobilers should always check the latest avalanche forecasts from the Colorado Avalanche Information Center before heading into the backcountry. Carrying essential safety gear—such as a beacon, probe, and shovel—and traveling with experienced partners can also improve survival chances in the event of an avalanche. Additionally, taking an avalanche safety course and understanding terrain features that contribute to instability can help mitigate risks.
While Colorado’s deep snowpack offers prime conditions for backcountry recreation, those venturing beyond resort boundaries must remain vigilant and make informed decisions to stay safe.
