Steamboat Springs, CO – Backcountry travelers in northern Colorado are being urged to stay out of avalanche terrain after a new Avalanche Watch was issued for the Park Range north of Steamboat Springs beginning overnight Tuesday and continuing through Wednesday.
According to the Colorado Avalanche Information Center (CAIC), heavy snowfall combined with strong winds is expected to significantly elevate avalanche danger across the region. Forecasters warn that the incoming storm system may create widespread unstable slabs, increasing the likelihood of both natural and human-triggered avalanches.
CAIC officials said the heaviest snow is expected late Tuesday into early Wednesday, with wind loading on leeward slopes posing additional hazards. Travel in steep, open terrain—or anywhere below large avalanche paths—may become especially dangerous during the watch period.
An Avalanche Watch is issued when conditions are likely to become dangerous within 24 hours. While not yet an Avalanche Warning, officials emphasized that risk levels may escalate quickly as the storm intensifies.
Backcountry skiers, snowboarders and snowmobilers are encouraged to avoid avalanche terrain entirely until conditions improve. “People should rethink plans that take them into exposed or steep terrain during this storm cycle,” CAIC noted in its update.
Residents and visitors in Routt County, the Park Range and nearby areas should monitor the latest forecasts and advisories at Colorado.gov/avalanche. Additional updates will be issued as conditions evolve through Wednesday.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
Follow us on Instagram & Facebook for more relevant news stories and SUPPORT LOCAL INDEPENDENT NEWS! Have a tip? Message us!
