Both Mirror Lake Highway and Wolf Creek Pass are currently drivable, though regular winter maintenance has come to an end. Don't let this easy access to the western Uintas lull you into a false sense of security just because you can see your car from a nearby ridge or mountain top. The Uinta snowpack is notoriously sketchy and quite a bit weaker than you might find in the central Wasatch. If you're getting into steep terrain, be prepared for your own self rescue- that means wear and know how to use an avalanche beacon, shovel and probe.

Also, I will be giving a free avalanche awareness presentation geared specifically for snowmobilers today at 2:00 at Tri-City Performance in Centerville.

In upper elevation terrain facing the north half of the compass a MODERATE avalanche danger exists and human triggered avalanches will be possible, especially on steep, wind drifted slopes. In wind sheltered terrain the avalanche danger is generally LOW.

A cool and somewhat moist northerly flow over the region is producing a few clouds and a stray snow flurry or two. Currently, west and northwesterly winds are blowing 15-25 mph along the high ridgelines and temperatures are in the upper teens at 10,000’ and mid 20’s at the trailheads. Riding and turning conditions are limited to upper elevation terrain, but soft settled powder on a mostly supportable base will be found on northerly facing slopes.

A few shallow wind slabs ran naturally is steep terrain the past few days. Click here for recent observations.

Today we can expect a mix of clouds and sun with a passing snow shower or two, though accumulations will be negligible. Winds could be an issue along the high ridges throughout the day, blowing 15-25 mph with a few gusts near 40 mph. Today’s high temperatures are expected to reach into the upper 20’s at 8,000’ and low to mid 20’s at 10,000’. Overnight lows dip into the mid teens. The weather pattern remains the same the next couple of days with no real defined storm systems, though several waves embedded in the northwest flow will bring periods of light snowfall to our region through midweek. Looking into the future, a larger storm system is expected to develop for next weekend.

The information in this advisory expires 24 hours after the date and time posted, but will be updated by 7:00 AM Saturday November 20th.

If you’re getting out and about and trigger an avalanche or see anything interesting please drop me an email at craig@utahavalanchecenter.org or call 801-231-2170

Also, now is a great time to schedule one of our free avalanche awareness presentations for your group or club. Email or call me and we’ll get you booked before things get too crazy.