Snow bridges, commonly associated with glaciers, can form anywhere, including low-elevation hiking trails, often created by layers of ice sheets filling unseen gaps
These bridges can be found over water bodies like creeks, rivers, and alpine lakes, as well as rock piles or dirt
Visible signs of a snow bridge include narrow bands of snow or depressions in the snow, indicating potential hidden gaps or elevation differences
Snow bridges may not always be visible, requiring careful attention to auditory cues like running water or depressions in the snow indicating potential gaps
When navigating snowy terrain, the use of maps or GPS devices is recommended to avoid unexpected encounters with snow bridges
It is advised not to cross a snow bridge directly; instead, find a safer route around it. If crossing is unavoidable, use caution, test the bridge's stability, and consider potential hazards
Testing the snow bridge with a hiking pole is recommended to assess its potential to support weight, especially considering features like rock gaps or flowing water underneath
If crossing a snow bridge is necessary, do it one person at a time, move swiftly, and ensure everyone has safely passed the danger zone before the next person crosses