Treat every forecast as an estimate
Snowpack forecasts are generated from weather data, satellite observations, terrain information, snow models, and historical patterns. Although we work to make these forecasts as accurate and reliable as possible, the available information is always incomplete and the models can be wrong. Never use a model prediction at a location as a sole source of permission for pursuing an objective.
Use multiple sources of information
Snowpack Labs is intended to complement—not replace—professional avalanche forecasts and other local information.
Before entering avalanche terrain, always review the forecast from your local avalanche center, when one is available. Local avalanche centers combine weather data, field observations, public reports, and the expertise of professional forecasters to provide essential regional context, avalanche problems, travel guidance, and information that Snowpack may not capture.
You should also consult relevant weather forecasts, recent trip reports, public observations, land-management notices, and other reliable local resources. If different sources disagree, do not select the forecast that best supports your preferred plan. Investigate the disagreement and adopt a more conservative interpretation.
Let conditions in the field override the map
A forecast is an expectation of what you may encounter. Conditions observed in the mountains are evidence of what is actually occurring.
Pay attention to changing weather, recent avalanche activity, collapsing or cracking snow, unexpected wind loading, rapid warming, and any other indication that conditions differ from the forecast. If your observations conflict with Snowpack, treat the model as incorrect and adjust your plan accordingly.
Be prepared to choose simpler terrain, change objectives, turn around, or end the day. No route or objective is more important than responding appropriately to the conditions in front of you.
Obtain appropriate training
Anyone traveling in or near avalanche terrain should receive formal avalanche education from a qualified provider. In the United States, this may include an AIARE 1 course, an AIARE Avalanche Rescue course, or equivalent training that follows recognized avalanche-education standards.
Training should teach you how to identify avalanche terrain, interpret forecasts, plan appropriate routes, make decisions as a group, recognize changing conditions, and perform companion rescue. Completing a course is only the beginning: these skills require continued practice, experience, and periodic refreshers.
Snowpack Labs cannot teach or replace these skills.
Carry rescue equipment—and know how to use it
When traveling in avalanche terrain, every member of your group should carry an avalanche transceiver, probe, and shovel and know how to use them. Rescue skills should be practiced regularly under realistic conditions.
Appropriate equipment does not make avalanche terrain safe. It is a last line of defense when efforts to avoid an avalanche have failed.
Plan how your group will communicate, travel through consequential terrain, respond to an emergency, and obtain outside assistance. Consider carrying a reliable emergency communication device, and do not depend on cellular service or continued access to Snowpack in the field.
Consider hazards beyond avalanches
Avalanches are only one of many hazards encountered during winter backcountry travel. Other hazards may include falls, cliffs, cornices, tree wells, glaciers and crevasses, stream crossings, severe weather, cold exposure, navigation errors, equipment failure, injury, and delayed rescue.
Snowpack does not identify or evaluate every backcountry hazard. Neither this page nor any information provided through Snowpack should be treated as a complete guide to backcountry safety.
Risk cannot be eliminated
Careful planning, education, appropriate equipment, conservative decision-making, and high-quality information can help manage risk. They cannot remove it.
By entering the backcountry, you accept that serious injury or death remains possible even when reasonable precautions are taken. You remain responsible for evaluating the information available, selecting appropriate terrain, and making decisions for yourself and your group.
Snowpack Labs exists to help people begin with better information—not to tell them that the mountains are safe.