As with any other physical activity, a few considerations will enhance your snowshoeing experience:
- Consult with an experienced snowshoer concerning equipment (consider renting at first)
- Carry a safety kit prepared for incidents in cold weather and isolated locations
- Wear weather-appropriate clothing (in layers)
- Warm up before starting out
- Be ready to experience the beauties of nature
When snowshoeing, follow the seven principles of the United States Snowshoe Association and Subaru partner Leave No Trace:
- Plan ahead and prepare
- Travel and camp on durable surfaces
- Dispose of waste properly
- Leave what you find
- Minimize campfire impacts
- Respect wildlife
- Be considerate of other visitors
- Find these principles defined in greater detail at the Leave No Trace website: www.lnt.org.
If you're wondering where to snowshoe, all you need is access to approximately six inches or more of snow. Consider these destinations:
- Forest trails (city, county, state, national)
- Golf courses (check for permission)
Find more locations specific to your area at www.snowlink.com
Two resources about snowshoeing:
- Snowshoeing: A Trailside Guide, by Larry Olmsted; W.W. Norton & Company
- Snowshoeing: From Novice to Master, by Gene Prater; The Mountaineers Books
For more information about snowshoeing:
Web search for snowshoeing will lead to a number of manufacturers' websites; many have snowshoeing tips and help to determine the best snowshoes for your particular needs
Try snowshoeing for free at the 16th Annual Winter Trails Day at select locations on January 8 (www.snowlink.com/wintertrailshomepage.aspx)
First-time snowshoers can find more information here: www.snowshoemag.com/first.cfm
Miscellaneous information:
A free snowshoeing opportunity: http://tubbsromptostomp.com/p/about_the_romp
The snowshoe racing National Snowshoe Championships will be held March 11-13, 2011, at Lakewoods Resort in Cable, Wisconsin.