Snowshoeing Techniques:
|
| Climbing- To ascend a slope, kick the front of your snowshoe into the snow and press
down to compact it into a step. To avoid collapse, always make sure that
each new step is sufficiently above the last one. |
| Descending- Heel cleats are the key to an easy descent. Try to keep your knees bent
slightly, lean back, and keep your weight on your heel cleats in order to
maintain control. |
| Edging- An important technique for traversing a slope is to simply kick the side of
the shoe into the hillside engaging the cleats. Swing the boot heel hard
towards the uphill slope, then stomp down securing the snowshoe edge in the
slope. Poles are very helpful while edging. |
| Breaking Trail- Walk in a single line behind the leaders trail. When its your turn to lead
take consistent even steps that are easy for everyone who is following. |
| Setting up Camp- Use your snowshoes to pack the snow surrounding your campsite. If you need
to dig you can use your snowshoes as a shovel. |
| Tools of the Trade |
| You'll enjoy snowshoeing even more with the addition of a few simple tools. |
| Snowshoe Poles- An easy, affordable, tool that will help your snowshoes work
for you. Poles not only help lend stability in any kind of condition, but
they can also be used to help propel you forward. |
| Ice Axe- For the serious adventurer or mountaineer, the ice axe is a
necessity when crossing steep and icy terrain. |
Whether you head out alone, or with your own snowshoe club, remember these
rules of the trail.
|
| - Before you start out the door check the local weather service.Conditions can
sometimes change abruptly.
-Know your limits. If you're unsure consult an expert. |
| - Even if you're not going alone, make sure someone knows where you will be
snowshoeing, and the time of your expected return. |
| -When snowshoeing with a group, make sure that everyone is comfortable with
the pace and demands of the trail. When its your turn to break trail, make
sure that everyone can follow. |
| - Pay attention to your environment. Respect your surroundings and they will
respect you. |
| - And remember, always pack out what you pack in. |
What To Wear
|
| On Your Body- Snowshoeing is an aerobic activity, not unlike cross country skiing.
Be prepared to get quite warm
while you are trekking, but you'll cool offquickly when you stop.
A system of layers is the best way to address the
temperature fluctuations. A simple wool hat is also an effective way to
conserve body heat and prevent a chill. |
| On Your Feet- Snowshoes are made to accommodate any kind of footwear. Choose
something that is warm and comfortable, and will keep your feet dry. Socks
made from wool or silk are best, as they wick away wetness and allow your
feet to stay comfortably dry. |
| What To Bring |
| A first aid kit. |
| -Ample food and water. Plan one quart of water per person per hour. If you
plan on sourcing your own water make sure you have the proper sterilization
tools. |
| -A compass and a trail map, if available. |
| -A pair of binoculars.
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