Adapted from Snowshoeing by Larry Olmsted

Falling snow has widely varying characteristics based on moisture content. In addition, many changes occur—once snow lands on the ground savvy skiers rise at daybreak to hit the slopes after a new"dump" of powder, not only to beat other skiers, but time and Mother Nature, as well. They know that gravity pulls the snow toward the earth, compacting it and making it denser. Even in the untouched wilderness, powder becomes denser over time.

Warmer temperatures generally make for firmer snow: the snow melts during the day and refreezes at night, becoming denser. On the other hand, snow in very cold, windless regions—like the forests of Minnesota, where the temperatures remain well below zero for weeks on end—will remain light.

Denser snow is better for snowshoeing, so welcome the sun, the wind, and time. If you are out West and get a big powder storm and find yourself unable to effectively move around on your snowshoes, just wait until it firms up a bit. This may take a few hours or a few days, depending on the conditions.

Move on to Other Considerations

Return to Top

---

Snowshoeing by Larry Olsted Click here to order!