How To Get Rid Of Snow On The Mountain

If you own a mountain cabin or manage a slope-side property, dealing with heavy snowfall is a major seasonal task. Knowing how to get rid of snow on the mountain efficiently is crucial for safety, access, and protecting your landscape. This guide offers practical, effective methods tailored for rugged, high-altitude environments.

Mountain snow removal is different from clearing a suburban driveway. The scale, slope, and often remote location demand smart planning and the right tools. We’ll cover everything from manual techniques to mechanical solutions, always with an eye on protecting the delicate mountain ecosystem.

This core section outlines the primary strategies. Your choice depends on your budget, the area size, and how quickly you need results. A combination of methods often works best.

Manual Removal Methods

For smaller areas, paths, or decks, manual tools are your first line of defense. They’re cost-effective, quiet, and give you precise control.

Aluminum Snow Shovels: Lightweight and strong, ideal for lifting heavy, wet mountain snow. A ergonomic handle can save your back.
Steel Shovels or Pushers: Better for breaking up ice or crusty snow layers. They are more durable but heavier.
Roof Rakes: Essential for preventing dangerous roof avalanches. Use them regularly to clear buildup before it gets to heavy.

When shoveling on a slope, always work across the incline, not up and down. This gives you better stability. Clear snow in layers rather than trying to dig to the ground in one pass.

Mechanical Power Solutions

For long driveways or large flat areas, powered equipment becomes necessary. Mountain snow is often deeper and denser, requiring robust machines.

Two-Stage Snow Blowers: The gold standard for heavy snow. They use an auger to chew up the snow and an impeller to throw it far away. Look for models with tracks instead of wheels for better traction on slopes.
ATV/UTV Plows: A versatile option if you already have an all-terrain vehicle. You can quickly attach a plow blade and clear wide paths. Make sure your ATV has enough weight and power for the job.
Compact Tractors: For serious, large-scale removal, a tractor with a front-mounted blade or snow blower attachment is incredibly effective. It’s a big investment but can handle almost any snowfall.

Always check your equipment before the storm hits. Test start it, and make sure you have fresh fuel and all the necessary maintenance is done.

Natural and Passive Techniques

Smart landscaping and preparation can significantly reduce your snow removal workload. These methods work with the environment.

Windbreaks: Planting rows of dense, evergreen trees uphill from your property can intercept blowing snow, causing it to deposit before it reaches your buildings or roads.
Sun-Absorbing Surfaces: Using dark-colored paving materials on driveways or patios can help melt snow faster on sunny days, even in cold weather.
Heated Driveway Systems: Installing radiant heat cables or pipes under paved surfaces is a highly effective, though expensive, solution. It melts snow as it falls, providing a clear surface with no manual effort.

Step-by-Step: Clearing a Steep Mountain Driveway

This is a common and challenging task. Safety is the top priority here.

Assess Conditions: Before starting, look for ice patches, fallen branches, or other hazards hidden under the snow. Check the forecast to ensure more snow isn’t imminent.
Choose Your Tool: For steep driveways, a tracked snow blower or a plow vehicle with chains is usually safest. Manual shoveling on a steep grade is risky.
Clear from the Top Down: Always begin clearing at the highest point of your driveway and work downward. This prevents you from getting trapped by snow falling from above you as you work.
Create Windrows Strategically: Pile snow on the downhill side of the driveway. This uses gravity to your advantage and prevents the piles from collapsing back onto the cleared area.
Apply Traction Aid: After clearing, spread sand or non-clumping clay cat litter (never rock salt, which harms mountain vegetation and waterways) on any remaining icy spots.

Environmental and Safety Considerations

Mountain ecosystems are sensitive. Your removal methods should minimize impact.

Avoid Chemical Melts: Traditional rock salt runs off into soil and streams, harming plants and wildlife. Use alternatives like calcium magnesium acetate (CMA) or the sand/litter mentioned above.
Mind Your Snow Dumps: Pile snow where its meltwater will drain into vegetated areas, not directly into streams or storm drains. Don’t pile on fragile plants or saplings.
Protect Wildlife: Be aware that deep snow piles can create barriers for small animals. Try to keep some areas with natural snow cover for their movement.

Personal safety is just as important. Dress in layers, stay hydrated, and take frequent brakes to avoid overexertion at high altitude. Let someone know your plans if you’re working alone.

When to Call in Professionals

Sometimes, the job is to big or dangerous for a DIY approach. Consider hiring a mountain snow removal service if:

The snowfall is extreme or has created avalanche risk near your structures.
You lack the proper equipment for the scale or slope of your property.
You are not physically able to perform the work safely.
You need 24/7 clearing for a business or frequent access.

Professional services have heavy equipment like rotary plows and extensive experience with mountain conditions. They can be a worthwhile investment for peace of mind.

Preventative Planning for Next Season

The best time to think about snow removal is in the fall. A little preparation makes a huge difference.

Service all equipment (oil changes, spark plugs, belt checks) in autumn.
Stockpile your eco-friendly traction aid in a dry, accessible place.
Mark the edges of your driveway with tall, reflective stakes so you know where to plow even after a deep fall.
Trim tree branches that overhang roofs or pathways to reduce snow load and falling limbs.

FAQ: Mountain Snow Removal

What is the fastest way to remove deep snow from a mountain property?
For large areas, a powerful tracked snow blower or a tractor with a plow is the fastest mechanical method. For immediate melting on critical paths, an installed heated system is fastest but requires installation.

How do you remove snow from a steep hill safely?
Always work from the top down using equipment with excellent traction (tracks or chains). Never shovel a steep slope manually if you can avoid it; the risk of falling is to high. Consider installing permanent snow fences above the area to reduce accumulation.

Are there eco-friendly ways to melt mountain snow?
Yes. Avoid sodium chloride (rock salt). Opt for biodegradable deicers like calcium magnesium acetate or potassium acetate. Better yet, use physical removal combined with sun-absorbing surfaces and strategic windbreaks to let nature help.

What should I do with all the piled snow?
Create designated “snow dump” areas away from buildings, septic fields, and waterways. Spread it out to melt slowly, allowing the water to infiltrate the soil naturally. Avoid creating piles that could cause flooding when they melt quickly.

Mastering how to get rid of snow on the mountain is about blending the right tools with smart techniques and respect for the environment. By planning ahead, choosing your methods wisely, and prioritizing safety, you can maintain clear access and protect your property all winter long. Remember, efficiency here means working smarter, not just harder.