Denver, Colorado – Backcountry travel across western Colorado’s mountains could turn life-threatening by 9 a.m. Wednesday as heavy snow and powerful winds rapidly raise avalanche danger to HIGH (4 of 5) through 5 p.m. Friday.
According to the Colorado Avalanche Information Center, an Avalanche Watch is in effect for the Flat Tops, Grand Mesa, Elkhead Mountains, and Elk Mountains beginning Wednesday morning. Forecasters warn that large, dangerous avalanches will be easy to trigger, and some slides could release naturally as snow piles up and wind loads steep slopes.
The watch covers popular recreation zones near Steamboat Springs, Glenwood Springs, Crested Butte, and areas surrounding Grand Mesa. Fresh snowfall combined with strong winds will build unstable slabs, especially on slopes steeper than 30 degrees. Snowmobilers, skiers, and snowboarders venturing into backcountry terrain face the highest risk.
Travel in avalanche terrain is not recommended from Wednesday through Friday. Experts urge outdoor enthusiasts to avoid travel on and beneath steep slopes and to reconsider any backcountry plans during this window. Even experienced recreationists could trigger large slides.
Dangerous conditions are expected to persist through late Friday afternoon, and additional advisories could follow if snowfall continues. The latest zone-specific updates are available at colorado.gov/avalanche.
