Some of the Following Information provided by the

Do I need a permit to ski the San Francisco Peaks?
Possibly. Backcountry permits are required if your backcountry tour originates from Snowbowl Ski Area or Snowbowl Road. However, if access originates form another origin (ie Inner Basin), than no backcountry permit is required.

How much are these backcountry permits? Where do I get them?
The backcountry permits are FREE of charge and are available at two locations. These locations include the Peaks Ranger District on winter weekdays from 8:00 a.m to 4:30 p.m. and on Saturday and Sunday at Agassiz Lodge at the Arizona Snowbowl from 9 to 11 a.m. (when ski area is open).

How long is the permit valid?
The permit is valid for ONE ski season and must be renewed annually to be a valid permit holder.

What do I do with the permit?
The permit must always be carried on the permit issuee while traveling in the backcountry. If two permits were issued one must be carried on the issuee and the other left on the dash of the vehicle along Snowbowl Road.

How can I find out more information on these permits?
The Forest Service has a great resource webpage on this topic. You can visit this page by following this LINK.

what is the kachina peaks avalanche center?
KPAC (Kachina Peaks Avalanche Center) is a 501(c)3 incorporated company. KPAC was incorporated in the summer of 2005 for the purpose of supporting and engaging in avalanche education, safety training, and information exchange on the San Francisco Peaks in Northern Arizona. Through education and awareness, winter outdoor enthusiasts can better prepare themselves for safer backcountry recreation.

what causes an avalanche?
An avalanche occurs when the stress (from gravity) trying to pull the snow downhill exceeds the strength (from bonds between snow grains) of the snow cover. There are four ingredients of an avalanche:
1. A steep slope
2. A snow cover
3. A weak layer in the snow cover
4. A trigger

when are avalanches most likely to occur?
The avalanche danger increases with major snowstorms and periods of thaw. About 2,300 avalanches are reported to the Avalanche Center in an average winter. More than 80% of these fall during or just after large snowstorms. The most avalanche-prone months are, in order, February, March, and January. Avalanches caused by thaw occur most often in April.

where do avalanches occur?
About 90% of all avalanches start on slopes of 30-45 degrees; about 98% of all avalanches occur on slopes of 25-50 degrees. Avalanches release most often on slopes above timberline that face away from prevailing winds (leeward slopes collect snow blowing from the windward sides of ridges.) Avalanches can run, however, on small slopes well below timberline, such as gullies, road cuts, and small openings in the trees. Very dense trees can anchor the snow to steep slopes and prevent avalanches from starting; however, avalanches can release and travel through a moderately dense forest. Most avalanches occur in the backcountry, outside of developed ski areas.

how can backcountry users recognize avalanche terrain?
Most large avalanche paths are obvious: an open slope, bowl, or gully above timberline that leads to a swath through the trees. But small avalanche paths in the trees can be just as dangerous. Slope angle is the most important factor, so you should carry a slope meter. You also need to observe snow deposition patterns and the effects of anchors such as rocks or trees that might prevent avalanches on some slopes. Finally, bent or damaged trees are good clues that show where avalanches have run in the past.

how can you keep from getting caught in an avalanche?
You can reliably avoid avalanches by recognizing and avoiding avalanche terrain. Travel at the valley floor away from large avalanche runouts, along ridgetops above avalanche paths, in dense timber, or on slopes of 25 degrees or less that do not have steeper slopes above them. Avoid cornices on ridgetops.
You cannot entirely eliminate risk if you travel in avalanche terrain, but you can minimize risk by using good technique, such as: climb, descend, or cross avalanche areas one at a time; cross a slope at the very top or bottom if possible; climb or descend the edge of a slope rather than the center; carry and know how to use avalanche rescue gear; and turn back or alter your route if you detect signs of unstable snow.

how can you recognize unstable snow?
When the snow cover is very unstable, nature often broadcasts clear danger signals. Fresh avalanches are the best clue. Snow that cracks, collapses, or makes hollow sounds is also unstable. Weak layers that are found by digging snow pits are signs of unstable snow. Snow that has become wet from thaw or rain can be dangerous. Even if you find no signs of unstable snow, you should always travel using the techniques listed above for minimizing risk.

what rescue gear should you carry?
You should always have an avalanche transceiver (or beacon), shovel, and a collapsible or ski-pole probe. You should practice frequently to be proficient in using your beacon. You should not take extra risk just because you have rescue equipment.

what can you do if you are caught in an avalanche?
Surviving avalanches can depend on luck; therefore, it is always better to avoid them in the first place. Remember that only 1 of 3 victims buried without a beacon survives. If you are caught, first try to escape to the side, or grab a tree or rock. If you are knocked down, get rid of your poles, skis, and a heavy pack. Swim with the avalanche to try to stay on top and avoid trees. When the avalanche slows down, reach the surface or make an airpocket.

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