Every snow often, we all enjoy a little snow adventure! Snowshoeing is an excellent way to stay active outdoors during our coldest months. In addition to the snowshoes themselves, the sport requires little specialized gear and if you can walk or hike, you’ll be able to snowshoe. Here’s our guide to getting started and some recommendations for where to snowshoe this winter.

Clothing:

  • Be bold, start cold! Remember to dress in layers so you can regulate your temperature effectively during periods of activity and rest. For tips on appropriate clothing for winter activities please refer to this previous post about dressing for colder weather.

Gear:

  • Snowshoes (if you don’t have your own, consider renting a pair before committing to purchasing a set).
  • Poles (they can provide added balance on shifting snow and necessary flotation in deep powder).
  • Avalanche Gear (beacon, shovel, and probe if your chosen route passes through avalanche terrain).
  • Warm, comfortable, and waterproof winter boots.
  • Gaiters can provide additional protection from snow getting into your boots.
  • Hand and/or toe warmers are a nice bonus on extra chilly days.
  • The ten essentials for outdoor adventures.

Education:

  • If you’re brand new to the sport you might consider taking a guided tour or lesson before heading out on your own. Professional guides can help with proper technique and will keep you out of harm’s way.
  • If you’re looking to explore even further, you should consider getting avalanche certified by taking an Avalanche Skills Training (AST) course. A number of companies offer courses and you can find a detailed list on the Avalanche Canada website.
  • If you’re already certified and your chosen route will be passing through avalanche terrain, always check the forecast before leaving.
  • In the winter it’s always good practice to check both the weather forecast and the highway report before venturing out.
  • Please note that if you stick to designated trails within the West Bragg Creek area you will be outside of avalanche terrain.

Etiquette:

  • Recreational users on foot, skis, or snowshoes are required to yield to equestrians, while cyclists must yield to all other trail users.
  • A general rule for trail users is the uphill party has the right of way over the downhill party, however this rule changes when it comes to skiers. Uphill users should yield to downhill skiers so they can descend safely.
  • Once grooming has commenced, groomed ski trails are reserved for skiers only.
  • More winter trail etiquette can be found right here.

Trail Suggestions:

 Winter Hike/Snowshoe Trails:

  • Snowshoe Hare East
  • Old Hostel Road

  Winter Multi-User Trails:

  • West Crystal Line
  • Snowy Owl
  • Telephone

  Other Suggestions:

  • Braggin Rights
  • Merlin View
  • Long Distance
  • Ranger Summit
  • Strange Brew

Trail Maps: