We are experiencing Deep Slab Instability RIGHT NOW!  Avalanche conditions have been at Considerable for some time now and the reason is that we are still suffering from those weak layers of snow that are near ground level.  This video does a good job of pointing out that sometimes stronger thicker slabs trick us and lure us out into dangerous terrain.  As he explains though we have some weak layers at the bottom of the snowpack and there are often trigger points or spots that have thinner slabs on top of them and if disturbed those spots can quickly propagate and cause large and dangerous avalanches.  It takes a long time for this type of snowpack to heal and become stable.  Be sure to keep all of these things in mind when traveling in the backcountry!

This avalanche pit was dug near the top of Avalanche Gulch on Targhee Pass on the 26th of January 2012. There are some definite weak layers and faceted snow that are still haunting our snowpack.

Be sure to check the avalanche forecast before getting out!

The Link for the Tetons and Western WY is
jhavalanche.org

This is a link for Island Park/Yellowstone/Montana area
mtavalanche.com/

And for the Sawtooths/Central Idaho area
sawtoothavalanche.com/

Educate yourself before going out and take necessary precautions while travelling in the backcountry. Be conservative and live to ride another day!

We all need to be safe out in the backcountry!  What I think is important for people to realize is that they really don't wear avalanche safety gear for themselves.  Obviously having the beacon will be your best hope of being found alive if you are buried, the fact is that most of this stuff is to help your friends in the event that THEY are buried, not you. If you are going to travel in the backcountry then it is imperative that you not only be equipped with all the items in the photo above, but that you also be very familiar with how to use them.  In the event of an avalanche you can't wonder what it is you need to do.  You need to already know!  
Also, while talking about knowing how to use this stuff it's even better to know how to avoid needing to use it!  "Know before you go!" as they say.  Keep yourself informed of snowpack conditions all season long.  Sometimes a bad layer of snow can plague the snowpack all year long.  Constantly watch the local avalanche report to know what the conditions are and what the current avalanche hazard is.  We hope everyone stays safe so that everyone can have fun, enjoy the incredible terrain we have in the area, and get stoked!
Check our Rentals page for pricing!

Lani and Wray Landon are hosting the 3rd Annual Avalanche Awareness Class on Wednesday, December 7th from 7pm to 9pm at the Taylorview Jr High in Idaho Falls. The class will be taught by our friends at the American Avalanche Institute. A nice raffle will follow and include prizes from 460 Bread, Mammut, Targhee Ski Resort, Sun Valley Ski Resort, and other generous donations from our supportive community.

This is important in so many ways. Even if you know everything about snow safety please attend  if for nothing other than showing your support for the Landon’s and their effort to bring this class to the Snake River Valley.

Additional information about this class can be found on the Events page in the top menu bar.

We hope to see many of you there to support this worthwhile event! Spread the word…