Sourdough Canyon Avalanche Danger

I went skate skiing up Sourdough Canyon today. The trail intersects a significant amount of south and southwest-facing avalanche terrain that generally does not have much snow coverage due to exposure to the sun. 

However, the snowpack is much deeper than normal in the Gallatin Valley and in the low-elevation mountains around the Valley, and these slopes make me nervous, especially because they would impact a trail that sees heavy use by people who do not intend to expose themselves to avalanches and who are not prepared for avalanche rescue. 

Currently, 2.5 to 4 feet of snow is in the terrain near the trail. 

These slopes WILL probably avalanche when: 

• We get the first sunny, warm day. 

They MIGHT avalanche when: 

• We get another big storm.
• People or animals traverse or choose to ski above the trail and inadvertently trigger a slide.

What you should do: 

• Recognize that ALL steep, snow-covered terrain (30 degrees plus) has avalanche potential.
• If you choose to recreate in abnormal locations, there may be abnormal considerations and consequences--there are families, kids, and dogs below you.
• SO, Be cautious and respectful of other users. One good way to do this is to AVOID traveling in avalanche terrain above unsuspecting travelers.