How to Snowshoe
Snowshoeing is a great way to enjoy trails in the winter snow, and it’s actually really easy. You won’t need a class to learn how to snowshoe, but there are a few basic tips that will make your first snowshoeing steps easier and more enjoyable.
What do you need to get started snowshoeing?
First, you’ll need comfortable winter clothes. The same kind of gear that you would use for cold-weather hiking, with layers will work. You’ll also need comfortable hiking boots (ideally waterproof) and of course, the Ten Essentials. You’ll want some decent trekking poles, and this is your chance to finally put on those snow baskets that they came with. A nice extra is a pair of waterproof gaiters to keep the snow out of your boots.
For snowshoes, I recommend renting them initially. This will save money and give you a chance to try the sport before you outfit the entire family. In Southern California you can rent snowshoes at many outdoor retailers including A16 and some REI stores. Areas that cater to winter sports also rent snowshoes, usually for around $20 for the day. It’s a good idea to practice strapping the snowshoes on before you leave the rental store so there’s no confusion when you get to the snow. Speaking of which…
Next, you’ll need snow. Generally, snowshoes come in handy when there is more than 12-15 inches of snow. Check snow conditions before you go. Some places like Long Valley in San Jacinto State Park have webcams that let you check the snow conditions, but call ahead and speak with the local ranger for the latest conditions. Check the weather forecast, too. Snowshoeing in a snowstorm is a lot less fun and can be dangerous.
How to “Walk” in Snowshoes
When people ask, I usually say that snowshoeing is just like walking, but with a slightly wider stance. The wider stance will help you avoid stepping on your snowshoes, getting tangled up and doing a face-plant in the snow. But if you do fall (especially in deep snow) the best way to get back up is to take your pack off and at least one of the snowshoes.
As you snowshoe, take your time and use your trekking poles to counterbalance each step. The tricky part is turning. There is no pivoting in snowshoes, so when someone behind you calls you to look back, you’ll need to stop and take some careful, short steps to turn around. Turns require more caution to avoid tangling your snowshoes.
When going uphill and downhill the crampons on your snowshoes become essential. Step purposefully, giving the points a chance to dig in. If the conditions are icy, snowshoes are not the right gear for the job. In icy conditions you’ll need either micro-spikes (for flat or gently sloping terrain) or crampons, ice axe, helmet and winter mountaineering training for steep terrain.
That’s about it! Snowshoeing really is that easy.
Where to Snowshoe
- Mt San Jacinto State Park via the Palm Springs Tram – This is a great place for first-timers because it makes an easy day trip, and it’s fun to ride up the tram from the desert into the snow.
- Badger Pass to Dewey Point in Yosemite National Park – This is a 7-mile out-and-back trek from the ski area formerly known as Badger Pass out to Dewey Point, where you’re rewarded with epic winter views over the Yosemite Valley.
Snowshoeing is slower than hiking and consumes more energy. Plan to travel about 1/3 to 1/2 as far as you would on a normal hike in dry conditions.
Snowshoeing can open the doors to a whole new world of outdoor adventure during the winter snow season. Have you given snowshoeing a try? Share your tips and feedback in the comments below!
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Title image photo credit: JP Jehan. All other photos: Jeff Hester
I’ve been watching snow levels in Yosemite & Sequoia for a while now. A week ago there was about 8 inches of snow in Sequoia around Wolverton and I had a pleasant snow day. I really want to get into snowshoeing though and am waiting for a good storm to blow through. Thanks for this!
Snowshoeing is a lot of fun and a really different experience. If you can go soon after a snow storm, it’s really beautiful.
I’m planning on taking advantage of all this snow that just got dumped on our local mountains and get out for some snowshoeing this week! A couple more tips: you can’t walk backwards in snowshoes. Snowshoes with a heel lift are great if you’re planning on tackling steep terrain. It helps reduce calf fatigue when going up hill. Also, most trekking poles don’t actually come with snow baskets. They come with trekking baskets which are smaller and not designed for use in snow. Snow baskets are larger and are typically sold separately. Be careful when buying though, as they are usually brand-specific meaning you have to get them to fit your specific brand of poles. Thanks and I hope this helps!
Great tip on not walking backwards! So true! As for the snow baskets, the last two pairs of trekking poles I’ve bought (Black Diamond and Cascade Mountain Tech) both came with snow baskets. Not saying you’re wrong, just saying my experience has been different. 😉
I live in Los Angeles and want to do some snow shoeing. I bought a pair of snow shoes years ago, but there were not much usage due to works. Now, that I retire, I want to go some short trips to get back to the familiar stuff. Do you have any recommendation? Really don’t want to joint Sierra Club just to do that.
Never tried Shoe-shoeing, looks like fun.
My kids loved learning how to snowshoe–super fun seeing them flounder in the snow! 🙂
Thanks for sharing your knowledge and enthusiasm! I love to hike. Snowshoeing seems an obvious follow-on. And now that “winter” has arrived in SoCal, I believe I’ll give it a try.
We are going to Tahoe this weekend, first time snowshoeing. We’re bothering in our 60s, and neither of us are skiers. Any words of wisdom, advise, tips, would be greatly appreciated!
I hope you have a great time! Trekking poles are helpful. Be aware that you can’t spin around quickly, but instead have to methodically step and rotate. Otherwise, the hardest part of snowshoeing is strapping them on!