There are several ways to gauge snow-pack stability. Keep any eye out for any cracks shooting across the surface, or small slabs shearing off. These are signs of weakened snow-pack. Also, listen for "hollow" or "whumping" noises as you walk or ski. This indicates that there is a weaker layer underneath, leaving the surface layer more prone to collapse.

Sometimes the snow shows clear and present danger signs of avalanche. The best clue is fresh avalanches, which tells you that some slopes have already stressed out and that others may be near the breaking point.

Keep observing and evaluating all day long. Keep asking yourself these four questions: Is the terrain capable of producing an avalanche? Could the snow slide? Is the weather contributing to instability? Is there a safer route?

With your shovel, dig a hole several feet wide and four to five feet deep (or to the ground.) Smooth the pit wall and then look at and feel the snow for changes in layering, texture, and strength. Next, perform several "shovel shear" tests, followed by a "rutschblock" test. These tests will answer many of your questions about the local snow strength.