SNOWSHOEING It’s true. “If you can walk, you can snowshoe.” Most people do well without any formal training, and it doesn’t require a lot of special skills. Snowshoes are highly maneuverable, allowing one to go places where cross-country skiers and snowmobilers cannot go. There’s no comparing hiking in spring, summer and fall to hiking in the winter snow on snowshoes amidst the quiet serenity of the snow-covered landscape.
Snowshoeing can accommodate a wide variety of activities–a casual hike in the woods, trekking into your favorite fishing spot in the BWCAW, or an overnight winter camping trip.
COLD W E A THER HIKING TIPS
Photo: Duluth Pack
• Check the forecast. Dress and make decisions accordingly. • Pre-plan your route and take a map that you’ve studied in advance. • Wear warm, waterproof, broken-in footwear. • Tell someone where you/your hiking party are going and when you expect to return. Remind them that weather and other factors can cause delays and you may return later than expected. • Allow more time than you think you need to complete the hike before dark, especially with kids and/or inexperienced hikers. Know what time the sun starts to set.
WHAT TO PACK IN YOUR WINTER DAY PACK:
First aid kit Additional layers Sunglasses Hat and gloves/mittens Maps Charged cell phone* Compass Flashlight/headlamp
Food Water in a reusable water bottle Any critical medication Lighter/matches Optional: Binoculars Field guides
*Be aware that you may not have cell phone service on your hike and you should not rely on your cell phone. Get familiar with your route before you go and prepare to be self reliant.
WINTER GUIDE
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