Slope angle should be one of the first things that comes to mind when traveling in the backcountry. It is a primary factor in every avalanche. Avalanches happen when four ingredients are present: a slab, a weak layer, a trigger and a slope angle steep enough to slide, generally between 25-45 degrees. Not all slopes are steep enough to avalanche and some are too steep to regularly form slabs. Recognizing what slopes are safe to ride and what slopes are prone to avalanching is an important part of making safe backcountry decisions.
Publication
MSA
Date of Publication