Damage or scarring to trees caused by an avalanche

Credit: Crested Butte Avalanche Center

Flagging is visible damage to trees or other vegetation on their uphill side caused by a flowing avalanche. Scars on tree trunks and broken limbs indicate that avalanches are capable of reaching the surrounding terrain. Use flagging to help assess the potential avalanche exposure of your routes.

Credit: Crested Butte Avalanche Center