Gunnison County, CO – The Colorado Avalanche Information Center (CAIC) has confirmed the state’s first skier-triggered avalanche of the season, reported Friday, October 24, near Treasury Mountain in the Elk Mountains. Roughly eight inches of new snow fell overnight, creating conditions ripe for small but dangerous slides.
According to CAIC, the incident highlights how even early-season snow accumulation—around 10 inches or more—can create unstable layers on steep mountain slopes. The slide occurred following a fresh snowfall event that brought 8.26 inches of new powder atop weaker layers, a combination that often leads to instability.
Officials urge skiers, snowboarders, and backcountry travelers to take extra precautions as the snow season begins. Daily avalanche forecasts will resume November 1, but early-season conditions still demand vigilance.
CAIC encourages outdoor enthusiasts to check local avalanche forecasts before every trip and to carry proper safety equipment, including beacons, shovels, and probes.
More information on avalanche conditions and safety can be found at Colorado.gov/avalanche.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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