Presidential Range Forecast Area Elevation Bands

VIEW A MAP OF THE ELEVATION BANDS HERE

Important Note: Elevation bands are general guidelines. Local terrain features, mountain weather, and seasonal variations can affect avalanche conditions at any elevation. Always check the current avalanche forecast and weather conditions before traveling in avalanche terrain.

Upper Elevation

Above 5,000 feet (1,524 meters)

Characteristics:

  • Exposed terrain above treeline with no tree cover
  • Includes the summit cone of Mount Washington and the high ridge lines of the Presidential Range
  • Includes the upper sections of many popular gullies/couloirs in Tuckerman Ravine, Huntington Ravine, and Great Gulf

Middle Elevation

3,000 – 5,000 feet (915 – 1,524 meters)

Characteristics:

  • Transition zone between dense forest and alpine terrain
  • Generally encompasses the “ravine level” and the area’s largest avalanche paths
  • Largest distribution of avalanche terrain
  • Scattered or stunted trees (krummholz)
  • Mix of exposed and protected areas

Lower Elevation

Below 3,000 feet (915 meters)

Characteristics:

  • Dense forest coverage
  • Includes Crawford Notch avalanche terrain
  • Generally more shallow snowpack
  • Gullies, streambeds, and open slopes can present avalanche hazards