In the Summit County backcountry, the avalanche forecast is part of the plan

Colorado has a real asset for winter explorers: a state avalanche center, the CAIC, that posts a free daily forecast for the backcountry during the snow season. It rates the danger and explains the day’s main problems in plain terms, so you can plan a great day on the snow with good information in hand.

Inside the ski-area boundaries, avalanche work is handled for you. Step outside them — into backcountry near the passes, ridges, and bowls around Summit County — and that planning becomes yours to do. For skiers, riders, snowshoers, and snowmobilers, reading the forecast before heading out is a normal first step, like checking the weather.

It’s worth knowing about even if you never leave the resort: avalanche terrain sits close to roads, trailheads, and cabins in the high country. Knowing the forecast exists, and how to read it, is part of settling into a Colorado winter and enjoying it with confidence.

Before a backcountry day near Summit County, check the CAIC forecast for that zone.