Looking for an affordable, fun, and accessible cold-weather activity to stave off the winter blues? Try snowshoeing! Unlike cross-country skiing and snowboarding, which require expensive gear just to get started (not to mention the cost of a ski hill pass!), you can use most of your cold-weather hiking gear for snowshoeing. You’ll need a pair of snowshoes, ample warm clothing, waterproof hiking boots, some simple safety gear and high spirits.
History of snowshoeing
Snowshoeing has a long history in Canada. Indigenous peoples crafted snowshoes from flexible ash or birchwood, animal hides, and babiche (rawhide string). Different Indigenous groups used a variety of snowshoe styles to travel across different types of snow and terrain. Modern snowshoe models are still based on these perfected Indigenous designs. Read more about the Indigenous history of snowshoes.
What to pack for snowshoeing
1. Snowshoes
Of course, you can’t go snowshoeing without snowshoes! Your first pair of snowshoes will probably fall into the “flat terrain” category (there’s also “rolling terrain” and “mountain terrain” for more advanced trails). They need to be appropriately sized for your weight, which includes you and your pack weight. A heavier load requires more snowshoe surface area, so you float over the snow- not sink!
2. Poles
Poles will save your knees while hiking in the summer and make your snowshoeing adventures much easier in the winter. They increase your stability and efficiency, helping you conserve energy. You can use your regular hiking poles; just add the snow baskets. Alternatively, pick up a pair of snowshoeing poles for your trek.
3. Weather-appropriate clothing
Dressing for the cold is a safety issue—it’s not just about comfort! You’ll want to wear layers of wool, down, and synthetic (usually polypropylene or fleece) materials. These materials are moisture-wicking, breathable, and warm. You should have a base, middle insulating, and outer shell layer to keep out moisture and wind.
Some outdoorsy folks might use the expression “cotton kills,” and winter hiking and snowshoeing prove this harsh but accurate truth. Cotton is great for hot weather but dangerous in the cold. It absorbs moisture (aka sweat) and takes a long time to dry, leaving the wearer damp, cold, and miserable. Steer clear of cotton, as it’s a fast ticket to hypothermia.
Make sure you wear waterproof hiking boots and cozy wool socks, too! You can also opt for gaiters to keep snow out of your boots.
4. Snacks and water
It’s surprisingly easy to forget to eat and hydrate during winter activities. But it’s nonetheless crucial for fueling your body and staying safe. Snacks also help keep your body warm—just make sure they don’t freeze! The same goes for your water. You should still try to consume half a litre of water per hour of exercise. Since hydration bladder hoses tend to freeze while snowshoeing, we recommend you carry water bottles instead. Placing them inside your backpack can help keep them from freezing.
5. Navigation
Navigation is one of the ten safety essentials you should bring with you on every outdoor excursion, especially if you’re travelling far distances. This could include a waterproof map, compass, GPS, or satellite messenger/personal locator beacon. The cold can drain phone batteries, so you should not rely on your phone’s offline maps for snowshoeing outings. You should also let someone know your plans and where you’re going.
6. Safety gear
In addition to your navigation tool, you should also carry other essential safety equipment. For example, a first aid kit, waterproof matches or lighters, an emergency blanket, extra snacks, and extra layers.
You should only attempt snowshoeing in or near avalanche zones if you have avalanche safety training. If you have avalanche safety education, be mindful of the warnings and pack avalanche gear (transceiver, snow shovel, probe, etc). Regardless of your experience and skill level, it’s best to stay away from these zones whenever possible. Learn more about avalanche safety and avalanche safety training from Avalanche Canada.
Quick Snowshoeing Gear Checklist
Here’s a straightforward checklist to remember what to pack for snowshoeing.
- Snowshoes
- Hiking poles with snow baskets
- Warm clothing (dress in layers – no cotton!)
- Snacks and water
- Navigation (waterproof map, compass, GPS, etc.)
- Safety gear (First aid kit, waterproof matches/lighter, emergency blanket, etc.)
- Camera! Don’t forget your camera so you can snap a few photos of your adventure.
Snowshoeing with Kids
Taking kids on a snowshoe adventure is a great way to get outside, foster connections to nature and create memories as a family. Kids can get tired, cold and even bored (quickly), so it’s essential to set them up for success and set your expectations.
Choose snowshoes that are the right size for your child’s age and weight. Some brands make snowshoes specifically for kids. Ensure they’re dressed warmly and in layers, including warm mittens and a toque. Make sure you have extra space in your backpack for their gear if they get warm and need to remove a layer.
Getting used to walking in snowshoes can be tricky, especially with little legs. Be patient and give them time to get used to it. For their first trek, choose a short and easy trail. You can make it fun by playing games like follow-the-leader or eye-spy. Pack yummy snacks and take lots of breaks. Don’t try to push them further when they show signs of tiredness or boredom. Head back. If you can end it on a high note, they’ll be more keen to go out again!
Find more outdoor activities or ideas for family adventures.
About Aislin Fall
Aislin Fall is a writer, photographer, traveler, and an avid outdoorsperson. She grew up in BC’s coastal mountains and interior Cariboo region, camping in the forests and road tripping along the Pacific coast. As an adult, she fell in love with hiking, backpacking, and vanlife in the Canadian Rocky Mountains.
Her passion for mountains and the outdoors has taken her all over the world, including the Dolomites, Julian Alps, and the Southern Alps. Ever the storyteller, Aislin documents her globetrotting and summit chasing adventures (and, sometimes, misadventures).
