Hatcher Pass
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The Bottom Line
The avalanche danger is LOW on all aspects and elevations.
With no new snow or significant weather events occurring since the last forecast, the snowpack remains relatively unchanged.
2 inches of low-density snow that fell last week continues to hide the firm snow beneath.
Even in low danger, it’s important to use safe travel protocol.
Special AnnouncementsTickets are on sale now for the Annual HPAC Cabin Fever Reliever Fundraiser highlighting HOPE SOCIAL CLUB! on Feb 4th here. Tickets will sell out! Come celebrate 15 years of avalanche forecasting with us!
Check out the EVENTS page for more information.
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| Travel Advice | Generally safe avalanche conditions. Watch for unstable snow on isolated terrain features. | Heightened avalanche conditions on specific terrain features. Evaluate snow and terrain carefully; identify features of concern. | Dangerous avalanche conditions. Careful snowpack evaluation, cautious route-finding, and conservative decision-making essential. | Very dangerous avalanche conditions. Travel in avalanche terrain not recommended. | Extraordinarily dangerous avalanche conditions. Avoid all avalanche terrain. |
| Likelihood of Avalanches | Natural and human-triggered avalanches unlikely. | Natural avalanches unlikely; human-triggered avalanches possible. | Natural avalanches possible; human-triggered avalanches likely. | Natural avalanches likely; human-triggered avalanches very likely. | Natural and human-triggered avalanches certain. |
| Avalanche Size and Distribution | Small avalanches in isolated areas or extreme terrain. | Small avalanches in specific areas; or large avalanches in isolated areas. | Small avalanches in many areas; or large avalanches in specific areas; or very large avalanches in isolated areas. | Large avalanches in many areas; or very large avalanches in specific areas. | Very large avalanches in many areas. |
No natural or human-triggered avalanches have been observed since Dec 23rd.
Triggering an avalanche of any size is unlikely.
The relatively warm weather has allowed almost every weak layer in the snowpack to gain strength. Even the basal facets found at the ground have gained strength and are continuing to round. The forecast area will need a major weather event to reawaken the basal facets at the ground.
Good riding can be found in Hatcher Pass on lower-angle slopes where soft surface snow hides the firm conditions underneath.
Interesting surface texture can be found throughout the forecast area.
Remember that low danger doesn’t mean no danger. Spread out when ascending steep slopes, descend one at a time, and regroup in safe zones. Everyone in your group should have avalanche rescue equipment and know how to use it.
Please perform a snow dance or make a sacrifice to Ullr to help improve riding conditions.
