Sawtooth Avalanche Center

Public Field Report

Observation Details

Observation Date:
December 5, 2022
Submitted:
December 5, 2022
Zone or Region:
Sawtooth and Western Smoky Mtns
Activity:
Walking/Hiking
Location:
McDonald Peak, Sawtooths

Observed Avalanches

Did you observe any avalanches? 
Yes
Avalanche Type:
Size:
Size 2: Could bury, injure, or kill a person
Elevation:
9800'
Aspect:
E
Comments:
Avalanche observed from valley floor. It was hard to see the size and depth from far away but the crown looks over 500' wide.

Signs of Unstable Snow

None reported

Observations

This avalanche was observed from walking along valley road at sunrise.

Media

A large natural avalanche on McDonald Peak that likely occurred between Dec 1-3. It appears to be a heavily wind loaded slope that failed on a persistent weak layer. Photo: Amy David
Public Field Report: McDonald Peak, Sawtooths