Random Thoughts

Snowshoeing - Affordable Fun for All

Snowshoeing is reported to be the fastest growing winter out-of-doors activity of the decade. It is an activity the whole family can do together. There are no lift tickets and lots of equipment necessary to go snowshoeing. If you are a hiker, all the additional equipment you need to go snowshoeing are the snowshoes and some poles.

Snowshoes do came in a variety of styles and sizes to meet a variety of body sizes and activity objectives. What this means is if you go snowshoeing in fluffy powder snow, a larger snowshoe is recommend than if you go trekking through the icier snow common to the New England national forests. Likewise, if you tip the scales at 200 pounds you'll need a larger snowshoe than a 50 pounder. A word about selecting snowshoes: for the best results work with a knowledgeable salesperson who knows about snowshoeing and the condition you are likely to encounter.

Now your got your snowshoes, where to you go? Here's a really cool thing about snowshoeing - they say the best snowshoeing is off those groomed cross-country and snowmobile trails. The old logging roads that crisscross most national forests are suggested most often but you don't have to limit your exploration to these closed avenues with pristine snow and unblemished surface. (A super activity for children is identifying the animal tracks in the snow.) Most national forests have an area designated "Sno Park" where a variety of winter recreation activity are enjoyed. Often these "Sno Park" require a permit to use but not always. Check with the national forest if a permit is necessary.

While snowshoeing is liking hiking and you should observe the same guidelines of carrying plenty of water, dress in layers, and bring a map and compass (GPS is okay but in cold temperatures batteries can fail) there are some additional cautions:

- Don't overdo. If you are tired, rest and stay hydrated;

- leave an itinerary with someone - a friend, someone where you are staying, or better yet, with the someone at a national forest's district office;

- if you are new to snowshoeing, check with your doctor to make sure there aren't any potential problems, and;

- if exploring mountainous areas, check on weather and avalanche conditions.

Snowshoeing has been a mode of transportation in the winter month for centuries. (The snowshoes in these photo are a pair used by Fred's stepfather probably half a century ago. Note the delicate weaving.) It is a great cardiovascular workout, affordable, and family friendly. However, it is also a great date activity. Today's snowshoes aren't like those old one style made from ash or hickory wood and fits all. With the new designs, specific to activity categories, and materials, it is little wonder snowshoeing is growing in popularity. Read more about snowshoeing at REI

Fred's stepfather's snowshoes - vintage early to mid-20th century

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