A Beginner’s Guide To Snowshoeing
Snowshoeing is a winter activity that is becoming increasingly popular every year. It is an easy way to get out and enjoy the snow and allows you to explore the winter landscape like never before. If you’ve been thinking of snowshoeing, you’ve come to the right place! In this post, we’ll review all the basics to get you started on your snowshoeing journey.
We’ll cover tips on what type of snowshoes to buy, how to choose the right clothes for your snowshoeing adventure, safety guidelines and tips, and more. So, if you’re ready to get out and enjoy the winter season, all you need are some snowshoes and some knowledge. Read on to learn all you need to know before you start your snowshoeing journey!
What Is Snowshoeing?
The history of snowshoeing dates back thousands of years to Aboriginal cultures that likely invented them for survival in cold weather climates. In more modern times, snowshoeing has become popular as a recreational activity. Many commercial brands now offer various snowshoes to suit all budgets and skill sets, allowing anyone to become an avid snowshoer.
Snowshoeing is an excellent activity for getting outdoors during winter. Unlike most seasonal activities due to weather conditions, you can use snowshoes year-round in many areas. In addition, it’s a great exercise that builds strength and endurance without impacting your joints. And finally, it offers a peaceful escape from the noise and bustle of everyday life in nature’s tranquility.
Getting Started
Anytime you head out into the outdoors during winter, you must have all necessary safety equipment, such as an avalanche beacon and probe, before starting your snowshoe adventure. Beyond that, there are some more basic items you will need to get started:
Snowshoes: These are essential for any good snowshoer! You will want to make sure you pick up the right size and type for your skill level and the terrain you plan on exploring
Boots: You need boots with waterproof insulation that will keep your feet warm and dry while snowshoeing
Poles: Poles provide extra stability while snowshoeing so they are a worthwhile purchase
Gaiters: Gaiters keep snow and debris from getting inside your boots
Clothing: The right clothing layers will help keep you warm during your outing.
It is important to find shoes that fit snugly but are still comfortable enough for long walking or hiking with snowshoes attached. The key features of good-fitting shoes include good ankle support with high tops or lace-up boots. This grip helps prevent slipping on icy surfaces, waterproof insulation, and proper ventilation to prevent sweat buildup inside your shoes.
When dressing for snowshoeing, it’s important to dress in layers so you can adjust depending on the temperature outside. A good base layer should be made of wicking material that pulls sweat away from your skin so it doesn’t freeze up against your body while you’re outdoors. Following this first layer should be an insulating mid-layer of fleece or wool to stay warm during colder days. Finally, choose an outer layer that is windproof and waterproof since these materials will protect you from wet conditions outdoors. It is also wise to choose bright colors so you can be seen if lost on the trails or in bad weather conditions.
Where to Go Snowshoeing
North America is blessed with numerous protected areas that offer stunning trails for snowshoers. Yellowstone National Park and Rocky Mountain National Park are just a few examples of vast stretches of pristine natural beauty awaiting snowshoe exploration. Remember to responsibly adhere to local regulations and eco-friendly guidelines while enjoying these areas.
Beyond national parks and refuges, public trails provide excellent options for beginner snowshoers seeking scenic walks or hikes near home or while on vacation. Ski resorts and mountain towns like Durango, Colorado, or Anchorage, Alaska, offer picturesque choices amidst panoramic views of mountains and forests during the Winter season in the Northern Hemisphere.
North America boasts numerous veterans’ trails for those seeking more challenging options. These trails often entail longer distances up mountainsides or sprawling terrains, providing a more rigorous workout than average hikes, accompanied by breathtaking vistas.
Safety Tips
When embarking on a snowy excursion, it is crucial to check weather reports in advance. This allows you to dress appropriately, ensuring plenty of extra layers if necessary. Additionally, be prepared for adverse driving conditions if venturing beyond walking distance from your base camp, especially in National Parks and other protected areas.
Maintain proper technique on the trail by following simple tips. Ensure feet do not overlap when walking and distribute your weight evenly across both feet. Avoid pushing yourself too hard, regardless of experience. Stay hydrated during walks by conveniently carrying water or energy drinks in your backpack pockets.
While avalanches are rarer than other hiking dangers, it is important to familiarize yourself with avalanche awareness when traversing snowy trails. Even experienced individuals can find themselves in treacherous conditions given the wrong circumstances. Check forecasts in advance, know warning signs, and prioritize safety when exploring the great outdoors.
Training To Improve
Snowshoeing offers an excellent cardiovascular workout. It engages the body and builds strength as muscles adapt to the required movement patterns in sub-zero temperatures during the winter season in the northern hemisphere. The progressive training program gradually increases fitness levels with each outing.
Developing techniques while on the trails enhances mastery of movement patterns. This includes turning corners accurately, learning to accelerate and decelerate quickly, and effectively transitioning from flat terrains to steep hillsides. Timing strides based on the terrain beneath your feet helps prevent slips and accidents commonly associated with icy surfaces, ultimately improving the overall snowshoeing experience.
Taking multiple short breaks during longer walks can make them more feasible. Breaking down longer treks into manageable sections ensures that stamina levels remain sufficient throughout the excursion. This approach provides a better opportunity to fully appreciate the beautiful surroundings, often overlooked when simply pushing through from start to finish. It marks the difference between a casual hiker and a hardcore enthusiast who seeks to explore the grandest regions of the outdoors and achieve challenging accomplishments.
Conclusion
Snowshoeing is an incredible outdoor activity that offers an escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Snowshoeing has something to offer everybody, from its ancient history to its modern resurgence as a recreational activity. And with the right knowledge and preparation, anybody can start their journey into the winter wonderland of snowshoeing. With the right shoes, clothing, and knowledge of safety guidelines, anybody can participate in this thrilling outdoor activity. So, this winter, get out and enjoy the snow with snowshoeing!