Never tried snowshoeing before? It’s easy to start, and you will love it! Here are some tips to make your snowshoeing experiences enjoyable.  

Equipment

These days, snowshoes can be as high-tech as skis. You won’t see many wood-and-rawhide models on the trails anymore. Today’s equipment is light, sturdy and highly mobile. Many models come equipped with stainless steel "teeth" to help you climb up and down hills. If you don’t own your own snowshoes yet, the x-country resorts we go to have good rentals, and you may want to try a couple of styles before you consider buying.

Poles with snow baskets will help you stay balanced on hills and rocks, but are not mandatory. Old downhill ski poles work very well!

Clothing

As with x-country skiing, the clothes you wear snowshoeing should be comprised of many breathable layers. You want to stay warm, but snowshoeing can be strenuous and you can overheat if you don’t peel layers off as needed.

Boots should be warm, flexible and waterproof, with flat heels. Gaiters that cover your boots and lower legs are a good way to help keep the snow out of your boots and clothing.

What to bring on a snowshoeing outing

• lots of water in an accessible bottle holder/fanny pack
• snacks for energy - carbs are good, and a nice thermos of warm stew or soup is great for longer treks where you’ll be having lunch out on the trail
• an extra layer of clothing in case you need it
• sunglasses

 Practising in the city

Snow conditions will vastly alter your experience, so you should seek out various types of snow and practice with your equipment. Hard pack snow in the city is no harder than walking, but knee deep powder in the woods is as strenuous as doing step aerobics. A good place to practice is a golf courses. There is a handy one just north of Yonge and York Mills on the west side. Most city parks are good just after a snow, before the dogs get to them.

Renting equipment

Perhaps you would like to rent your own equipment here in town, and try the sport yourself before heading out with us? Snowshoes may be rented at Mountain Equipment Coop and Europe Bound.

And finally...

Bring a good attitude. Expect a fun afternoon (or day) trekking through the outdoors with your fellow ’shoers and remember: there is usually hot cider and coffee at the lodge afterwards as a reward!

See you out there!