Fall is in full effect and winter is trying to edge its way in ever so slowly. Snow accumulating in the mountains now is likely to stick around and provide the "base" of the snowpack for the season. It's good practice to pay attention to early season weather patterns and think about how that may affect the development of the snowpack on all aspects. As you venture in the mountains this fall remember that avalanches can happen any time of the year. If there is enough snow to ride or ski then there is enough snow to avalanche. 

It's also a good idea to start brushing away the cobwebs in the part of your brain that thinks about avalanches, and attend one of the upcoming classes this fall. Check here for a calendar. We will conduct avalanche awareness classses for both motorized and non-motorized audiences. Many of these classes are hosted by local shops and retailers, and we appreciate their support in helping educate backcountry users.

While you are dreaming about powder-filled slopes you might also check out the online tutorials under the Education tab. There are a number of resources from the National Avalanche Center and the American Avalanche Association. There is also a great tutorial from Avalanche Canada as well as their Throttle Decisions video series. 

Also, the Friends of the Flathead Avalanche Center (FOFAC) host this website and are passionate about supporting FAC and avalanche education in northwest Montana. Learn more about FOFAC and their mission. 

We will update the site with snowpack and avalanche conditions throughout the fall as the snow continues to accumulate as well as add more classes and events as they are scheduled. Also, the guys down at the Gallatin National Forest Avalanche Center put together a great video discussing preparation of avalanche gear for the season. Check it out here.

Have a safe and great fall!