Glossary

An avalanche path is the area involved in an avalanche or a location where an avalanche can occur. Avalanche paths are subdivided into three sections: the start zone, the track, and the runout zone: 

• The start zone is where avalanches typically start. Significant characteristics of the starting zone include the slope incline, orientation to wind, orientation to sun, roughness of ground, forest cover, elevation, and trigger points.
• The track is the area covered by an avalanche in motion. It connects the start zone to the runout zone. 
• The runout zone is the part of an avalanche path where an avalanche slows down and stops. 

At treeline and below, large avalanche paths are frequently evident from their impact on forests. They can damage or destroy forests, resulting in treeless paths through the forest where avalanches regularly occur. 

Recognizing avalanche paths and the areas they cover is an important part of managing avalanche terrain.

The full length of an avalanche path. Photo by Jennifer Coulter.