I used to live in Utah.

Road-blocking avalanches are a frequent occurrence in Little Cottonwood Canyon
which leads to the unbelievably fantastic ski resorts Alta and Snowbird.

These are located in the Wasatch Range just outside of Salt Lake City.
The mountains are situated just right, blocking weather systems which dump
tremendous amounts of moisture in the form of snow as they move east.

The Utah Dept of Transportation and Ski Patrol use World War II M101 Howitzers
to intentionally trigger avalanches, after which they will clear the roads
with massive front loaders.



if you have never been in this area, it is well worth the trip any time of year.

For those who enjoy the outdoors, it is an absolute gem.