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Reading avalanche terrain is a critical skill for anyone venturing into snow-covered backcountry areas. Understanding the terrain can help individuals make informed decisions about where it’s safe to travel and where the risk of avalanches is higher.
6 Key Aspects for Reading Avalanche Terrain
Slope Angle
Avalanches are most likely to occur on slopes with angles between 30 and 45 degrees. Steeper slopes are more prone to avalanches, while shallower slopes may not provide enough snow cover for a slide.
Aspect (Direction the Slope Faces)
Different aspects receive varying amounts of sunlight, affecting the stability of the snowpack. North-facing slopes may preserve colder, drier snow, potentially leading to deeper instabilities. South-facing slopes are more prone to solar radiation, which can weaken the snowpack.
Elevation
Consider the elevation of the terrain, as snow conditions can vary with altitude. Higher elevations may accumulate more snow, while lower elevations may have less stable snow.
Terrain Traps
Identify terrain features that could increase the consequences of an avalanche. Valleys, gullies, cliffs, or dense tree areas can trap and bury individuals in the event of an avalanche.
Cornices
Be cautious around cornices, which are overhanging snow along ridgelines. They can break off and trigger avalanches on slopes below.
Avalanche Paths
Identify and avoid areas that are natural paths for avalanches, including narrow valleys and chutes.
Avalanche Education & Reading Avalanche Terrain
It’s important to note that assessing avalanche terrain requires a combination of education, experience, and ongoing observation. Avalanche safety courses, mentorship by experienced individuals, and staying updated on current conditions from local avalanche forecasting centers are essential for making informed decisions in the backcountry. Always prioritize safety, carry the necessary equipment, and be prepared to turn back or choose alternative routes if conditions are uncertain or hazardous.
Our Avalanche Education
Savage Sledderz offers avalanche education courses with top rated avalanche instructor Mike Duffy from Avalanche1. You can find out more about our avalanche course offerings here on our website. One of the skills you will learn through those courses is how to ready avalanche terrain.
