Advanced Wilderness Life Support (AWLS)

Meltdown: Surviving Spring Snow Travel

AWLS

In this podcast we explore the hidden hazards of hiking through spring and summer snow. As the mountains begin to thaw, trails once buried in winter snow reveal a new set of challenges—soft snowfields, collapsing crusts, and the dreaded posthole. In this episode, we dive into what really happens beneath your boots during shoulder season hikes, why postholing can be more than just annoying, and how to stay safe when snow lingers long after winter is gone. Whether you’re a seasoned mountaineer or a casual day hiker, this is your guide to navigating the slush, avoiding injury, and making smart decisions in melting terrain.