Snow Water Equivalent is a measurement used to determine the total amount of water mass contained within the snowpack of a specific geographical area, usually expressed in inches of water (if the entire snowpack were to melt, this would in turn = X inches of water). SWE is a particularly useful way to measure potential spring and early summer runoff as well as a good way to predict year to year when trails will start to become free of snow.

Since snow and snowpack contains a substantial and varying amount of air, snow depth alone is not always an accurate gauge for the previously stated purposes.

Using Snow Water Equivalent / Depth Information

However, snow depth is a good way to determine what to reach for on the way out the door for your next winter or early spring hike, whether that be your snowshoes, skis, winter traction devices, or just your hiking shoes. If you’re interested in the current SWE of your favorite hiking destination or just want to check the estimated snow depth, the NOHRSC Interactive Snow Information Website is a great resource to evaluate prior to your next trip.

Editor's Note: This Jargon installment originally appeared in Issue 21 of TrailGroove Magazine. You can read the original article here.