Quick Answer
To read bearings accurately in snowy weather, use landmarks, observe shadows, and orient your map with natural features like tree direction. Keep your compass close and protected from snow and wind. Use a consistent method for taking bearings.
Understanding Snow Conditions
When navigating in snowy weather, it’s essential to understand how snow affects visibility and your ability to read bearings. Heavy snowfall, blowing snow, and fog can make it difficult to spot landmarks and read the environment. In these conditions, rely on your map and compass for navigation.
Identifying Landmarks
Look for natural features like tree direction, rock outcroppings, and ridges. In snowy weather, these features can be more visible than man-made landmarks. Take note of the direction of tree branches, as they often grow in the prevailing wind direction. Use a consistent method for marking and remembering these landmarks, such as associating them with specific features on your map.
Reading Bearings in Whiteout Conditions
In extreme whiteout conditions, use your compass to take bearings from your map. Make sure your compass is properly aligned with magnetic north and that your map is oriented correctly. Take bearings from your map by aligning the direction-of-travel arrow with your destination, then reading the bearing from the compass. Use a consistent method for keeping track of your bearings, such as writing them down or using a bearing-taking device.
Find more answers
Browse the full Q&A library by topic, or jump back to the topic this question belongs to.