Snow conditions

The type of snow you experience in the mountains varies enormously. The condition of the snow is affected by a number of factors including air temperature, altitude, direction of the slopes, wind, sunlight, depth….the list goes on.

You should take lessons and learn to adapt your skiing or snowboarding technique to deal with varying snow conditions as different snow presents different challenges.

Generally, better snow conditions are found at higher altitudes because of the higher levels of snowfall.

However, if you do go in search of better snow make sure you stick to the controlled areas - don't go off-piste without a guide and training - and make sure you are able to cope with the difficulty of the runs higher up the mountain.

Powder
Many people find 'powder' conditions the most pleasant for skiing and boarding.

Powder conditions usually occur immediately after moderate or significant snowfall.

Riders get the feeling of floating as their skis or board travel with ease through the light snow.

High altitude resorts tend to experience powder conditions on a more regular basis as they often receive higher levels of snowfall. A good example of this is the inland North American resorts.

This short video gives you an insight into the fun you can have if you are lucky enough to ski or board on a powder day!

Ice
Ice sits at the other end of the snow conditions spectrum.

As snow compacts and freezes it forms a hard layer of ice.

Ice can occur anywhere on the mountain but North facing slopes without sunlight can be particularly prone, especially in the early morning when temperatures can be lower.

You are also more likely to find icy conditions if you take part in the night skiing and snowboarding sessions offered in many resorts as temperatures drop once the sun goes down.

Ice can be less forgiving than most snow conditions and consequently many skiers and boarders try to avoid it. However, with good tuition you will learn to slide across it and deal with it as you would any other type of snow.

Slush
Slush normally occurs when temperatures rise and the snow starts to melt.

Slush can feel heavy to ski through and generally snowboarders find it easier to deal with.

Slush is most likely to occur in warm conditions, so you are more likely to see it towards the end of the season or during any summer skiing and boarding trips. 

Slush also occurs around the bottom runs of lower altitude resorts or South facing runs that receive high levels of sunshine.

Crud
Crud or 'wind blown crud' is uneven snow that has developed a hardened crust on the top surface.

Large snowplough type vehicles turn over and flatten or comb most runs in mountain resorts. This is known as 'grooming' or 'piste-bashing'.

Therefore, as long as beginners stick to 'groomed' runs whenever possible and don't ski or ride right up to the edges of the pistes they are unlikely to experience crud conditions.

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