Snowshoeing
← Back to January — Snow, Ice & Avalanche
Snowshoeing gets you into snow country with almost none of the avalanche-terrain exposure of backcountry skiing — groomed and marked trails make it a forgiving way to spend a winter day.
REC Safe Snowshoeing
Our R.E.C. Tenets, applied on the snow:
- R — Ready
- E — Equipped
- C — Cautious
marked trails, but still avalanche-adjacent
Top 10 Snowshoeing Safety Tips
- Check the avalanche forecast if you'll be near open slopes — snowshoeing off marked trails can still cross avalanche paths.
- Size snowshoes for your weight plus gear. Undersized snowshoes cause post-holing and fast fatigue.
- Use poles for balance, especially on slopes and uneven, wind-crusted snowpack.
- Layer up and skip the cotton. You'll overheat on climbs and chill fast on breaks.
- Carry more water than you think you need — cold, dry air dehydrates you faster than you notice.
- Respect the short winter daylight. Start early and know your turnaround time.
- Carry a map/compass or offline GPS. Snow cover erases trail markers and familiar landmarks.
- Tell someone your route and expected return time.
- Watch your group for frostbite and hypothermia, not just your own symptoms.
- Stay on packed or marked trails near avalanche terrain unless you have the training and gear for backcountry travel.
Recommended Items to Bring
- Snowshoes sized correctly for your weight
- Trekking poles with snow baskets
- Insulated, waterproof boots
- Non-cotton base and mid layers
- Waterproof outer shell
- Gaiters
- Map/compass or GPS with offline maps
- Extra water and high-energy snacks
- Headlamp with spare batteries
- First aid kit
New to snowshoeing? A local outfitter or guide service can get you set up on the right gear and terrain for your first few outings.
See also: Snow terrain and Top 10 Snow, Ice & Avalanche Safety Tips.