What Is Powder Snow?
Powder snow is the fluffy, light snow that many people think of when they think of snow. It’s often very light, easy to lift, and very loose (the small ice crystals break up easily). It is relatively dry and often found in the Rockies.
What Is Packing Snow?
Packing snow is very dense and heavy. It is densely packed, moist, and very stiff. This makes it heavier to shovel. It is commonly used to create snow structures.
What Are The Differences Between The Two?
| Factor | Powder Snow | Packing Snow |
| Moisture | 4-7% Water | 10% + Water |
| Temperature | Usually below -2C (28 F) | Usually around freezing |
| Structure | Snow crystals fall apart, keeping them brittle | Snow crystals are packed together keeping them stable |
| Weight | Light | Heavy |
| Uses | Skiing | Creating snow structures |
What Is Powder Snow Good For?
Powder snow is often loved by skiers, due to how easily it can be navigated.
What Is Packing Snow Good For?
Packing snow is often used to build structures, such as snowmen and snow forts.
