How to Assess Snowpack for Avalanche Conditions

Learning to properly evaluate snowpack stability can be one of the more challenging aspects of backcountry travel. Slab avalanches most often occur when strong, solid layers cover weak, loose layers in the snowpack. By using a variety of techniques, you can learn to detect these conditions in the snow, and therefore make an educated decision about what terrain to safely travel on.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

1. Dig several snow pits in the course of traveling through the backcountry - see the eHow "Dig a Snowpit for Avalanche Danger".
2. View the horizonal layers in the snowpack. Do any layers snow types?
3. Use your

Tips & Warnings

• Keep in mind that the snowpack of any given area is incredibly variable. For this reason it is important to check the snowpack as often as possible for a "big picture" of stability analysis.
• The risks of avalanches are extremely high in many backcountry situations across the country. The eHows on avalanche assessment are designed to increase your awareness and help you make safe decisions. However, a class on the subject or traveling with a guide is recommended for those new to the backcountry experience.