Best Conditions for Snowshoeing

Conditions to Consider for the Best Snowshoeing Experience

When you consider the best conditions for any outdoor activity or sport, you usually think about the weather. And while climate is a factor you can’t ignore, another essential consideration for snowshoeing is the type of snow you’ll be walking on. We talk about these two main factors further below.

Weather

Like with any outdoor exercise or recreation, it is always best to have fair weather. When the sun is out and the skies are clear, you are provided a clear view of your surroundings. With snowshoeing, having excellent vision makes it easier to look for trails and spot possible hazards such as tree wells and post-holes (holes punched into the snow). Also, not having gusty winds makes it much easier for you to move around in your snowshoes.

You should always check the weather forecasts for the area you plan to go snowshoeing. You don’t want to arrive at your location only to find out that a snowstorm is coming, forcing you to cancel your hiking plans. Or, there might have been heavy snowing the night before, causing your snowshoe trail to be more challenging to use. Be constantly updated, especially if you’re up in the mountains because the weather there can change in a matter of minutes.

You should also be updated on the temperature forecasts so that you can prepare the proper gear and clothing. For example, the sun might be out, but temperatures can still be very low, so you’ll want to bring extra layers for warmth.

Something to note is that steep slopes can be avalanche-prone in warmer weather because of snow melting. Try to avoid hills or mountains in such instances and instead go for flatter areas.

Type of Snow

There are several types of snow prevalent during the winter season, and you might even encounter more than one of these when you go out hiking. Fortunately, most of these powder types are suitable for snowshoeing. You might also need different snowshoes for other kinds of snow, but bringing along another pair can be a big help in creating a seamless hiking experience.

Best Snow Conditions

Fresh Powder

Fresh powder is snow that has recently fallen and is untouched, usually resulting from a snowstorm. This type of snow is very soft such that you can sink in it quite readily. This property of fresh powder is what makes it one of the best kinds for snowshoeing.

When you’re walking with your snowshoes on new snow, the softness of it makes you feel like you’re floating. And because the fresh powder is relatively light, it is also easier to move around in it. Having this kind of enjoyable experience is what makes fresh powder one of the best types for snowshoeing.

Dense Snow

This type of snow is the heavier version of fresh powder and is more packed as well. It might not be as fluffy, but you can still sink in it. Because of its nature, dense snow also requires more effort to move around in, making it best suited to those looking for a workout.

The deeper the snow, the more difficult it can be to move your feet forward and can cause you to tire out faster. This kind of situation might not be desirable for people who only want a relatively light workout. The good news is that having the correct type of snowshoes can help you with this predicament.

You’ll want to get backcountry snowshoes, which are longer and broader than trail or recreational snowshoes. The larger the footwear, the more flotation it provides, so you don’t sink as much in deep powder. Backcountry snowshoes are also excellent for technical terrains and usually come with heel lifts for when you’re going uphill.

Another helpful piece of equipment you can have is a pair of snowshoeing gaiters. Gaiters help keep out the snow from your snowshoeing boots that would otherwise feel cold on your feet.

Hard-Packed Powder

The hard-packed powder is snow that has either been compacted naturally or by vehicles, machinery, or other winter hikers. Compared to previously mentioned types, hard-pack doesn’t let you sink in it. And although it doesn’t give you that floaty feeling, the packed powder is excellent for those who are snowshoeing for the first time.

Hard-packed powder lets snowshoeing beginners practice moving around without having to face much resistance. Also, this kind of snow is excellent for running, so you might want to get racing snowshoes if you’re more experienced.

Your only main worry is traction, which is essential, especially on more slippery surfaces. You might want to look into snowshoe features such as toe and heel crampons, as these provide you with enhanced grip on such surfaces.

Some Snow Conditions to Avoid

Slush Snow

Slush is soggy snow that results from warmer spring temperatures that cause melting. Snowshoeing in slush can be unpleasant because every step you take causes a splash of water. And if you don’t have gaiters or your snow boots are not tall enough, the splashed water can get to your feet, making you feel cold and uncomfortable.

Ice

Ice is packed snow that melted for a while before freezing again because of a decrease in temperature. As the term implies, snowshoes are made for snow and not the recommended gear for icy surfaces. Walking on ice makes you more prone to slipping and falling and can result in injury. And even if your snowshoes have traction features, moving over ice can feel uncomfortable because of its solidness.

FAQs

Do I need trekking poles?

Trekking poles can be beneficial for snowshoeing. They can help you move around in different types of snow, especially in deep powder. They can also be used to probe for potential hazards, provide balance, and can act as shock absorbers for your joints.

What gear should I bring when snowshoeing?

The most common pieces of equipment used in snowshoeing include the following:

• Snowshoes
• Snowshoeing Boots
• Layered Clothing – includes a base, middle, and outer layer
• Snowshoeing Socks
• The Ten Essentials
• Others – include hats, gloves, trekking poles, gaiters

Do I need gaiters?

Snowshoeing gaiters can be very useful, especially when trekking in deeper snow. Gaiters help prevent snow and water from entering your boots, protecting your feet from getting wet, cold, and feeling uncomfortable.

Conclusion

When you know what weather to expect or what kind of snow you might encounter in your planned hiking location, you can equip yourself properly.

And as a result, you can set yourself up for a successful and enjoyable snowshoeing experience.

Simply researching the conditions of your snowshoeing area beforehand truly goes a long way.