There’s something irresistible about chasing those first turns of the season. The air is crisp, the mountains glow gold, and the idea of floating through October powder feels too good to pass up. But before you start skinning up a familiar ridge, remember that early-season snow can hide some not-so-friendly surprises beneath its pretty surface.

Image: Aspen Daily News

Tree runs can turn tricky fast. A thin snowpack doesn’t cover much, roots, logs, and stumps all lurk just under the surface. What looks like smooth snow could easily catch a ski edge or twist a knee. Before dropping in, poke around as you climb and take note of how deep the snow really is. If your poles hit something solid every few feet, maybe save that line for later in the season.

Image: Ski Tutor

Above the treeline isn’t any safer. Early storms scatter snow unevenly across the alpine, leaving wind-blown slabs one minute and bare rock the next. One bad turn can mean a core shot, or worse. If you’re venturing into higher terrain, do some homework first. Check satellite tools like Sentinel or Caltopo to spot patches that hold snow year-round. They might be the only safe lines this time of year.

Image: Osprey

And yes, avalanches can still happen. Don’t let a thin base fool you; all it takes is the wrong combination of layers to make a slope slide. Weak snow formed in the fall often sticks around all winter, setting the stage for bigger avalanches later. Always tour with a partner, check your local avalanche forecast, and bring your beacon, probe, and shovel, no exceptions. If you haven’t taken an avalanche course yet, now’s a great time to start learning.

Image: Avalanche.org

The early season is for patience, not bragging rights. Those first tracks might be tempting, but the smartest move is to wait until the snowpack fills in a bit more. Study the weather, make conservative calls, and leave room for the season to build. The mountains will still be there, and so will the powder days that are actually worth the wait.

Image: The New York Times