Secrets of the Snow: Visual Clues to Avalanche and Ski Conditions

by Edward R. LaChapelle

The surface of fallen snow―its contours and texture―can tell the interested observer much about the forces that shaped it and about its stability and what it is likely to do. Will it be good for skiing or for packing as a snowball? Will it slide? Is it dangerous?

Secrets of the Snow is an overview of the easily visible aspects of snow in the alpine mountain landscape, serving as a companion volume to the author’s Field Guide to Snow Crystals , which examines snow at the microscopic level. Describing visual snow features and textures arising from climate, wind-drift, layering, solar radiation, and melting, Secrets of the Snow explains how snow may be "read" for information on avalanche formation and suitability for winter sports.

Closely linked photographs and text illustrate the shapes, forms, and textures found at the surface of winter snow covers; describe their origins in wind and weather conditions; and guide the reader in interpreting these features to predict snow behavior. Secrets of the Snow is essential for winter sports enthusiasts, mountaineers, and avalanche-safety specialists.

112 pages, Paperback

First published October 1, 2001

Reviews

[Aadesh · Rating 4 out of 5]

I couldn't fully understand the concepts presented in the book. It was hard to read as the pictures and its description were in different pages. But it did gave me new insights about snow condition and when to and not to go out for adventure in mountains.

[Kimberlybrennantyler · Rating 5 out of 5]

Perhaps more important clues to avalanche danger then detailed snow pack information is the information you can glean as soon as you step out of your car and onto the snow. This book is a great compliment to basic avalanche training and is not only a must read for back country users but a must read again and again. One more reason why Ed Lachapelle was "the man."