Start Snowshoeing in Washington State, all you need to know.

If you’re searching for a winter adventure that combines dreamy winter landscapes with exercise, look no further and start snowshoeing in Washington State. But what do you need to get started? To ensure a safe and enjoyable experience, you’ll need a few essential items and some preparation. Read on for all you need to know to get you out into the winter wonderland!

What is Snowshoeing?

Snowshoeing is a winter sport that involves walking on snow with the aid of specially designed footwear called snowshoes. These snowshoes are broad and flat, distributing your weight more evenly over the snow to prevent you from sinking in. You need at least 6 inches of snow for them to be effective.

Why Start Snowshoeing?

Snowshoeing offers an accessible and enjoyable winter adventure for all skill levels, requiring no specialized skills or extensive training—if you can walk, you can snowshoe. Haha. As a great cardiovascular workout, it builds strength, endurance, and balance while being low-impact. Snowshoeing often leads you to less crowded areas, providing a peaceful escape and gets you out in the winter. It’s family-friendly, my kids love it. It gives a special something to a winter walk or hike and is a great gateway to building a fort or just making snow angels. It is also quite cost-effective, way less expensive than other snow sports and can be enjoyed by almost anyone. Additionally, the combination of physical exercise, fresh air, and nature helps boost your mood and reduce stress, and it’s easy to learn with minimal equipment and straightforward techniques.

So why not!

How to Start Snowshoeing

Begin by choosing the right snowshoes for your weight and the terrain you’ll be exploring. Wear insulated, waterproof boots and dress in layers to stay comfortable. Start on a flat, packed trail to get the hang of walking with snowshoes, and practice lifting your feet slightly higher to avoid dragging. Use trekking poles if desired for added stability. Always check weather and trail conditions before heading out, and carry essential safety gear. With minimal equipment and straightforward techniques, snowshoeing is a fun and accessible way to enjoy winter. Read on for more detail about all of these steps!

Choose the Right Snowshoes

I absolutely love the MSR snowshoes for our whole family. We use the Evo Trail Snowshoes, which are perfect for both my husband and me. For the kids, the MSR Shift snowshoes have been fantastic—they’re incredibly durable! Just be sure to choose the right size based on your weight and the terrain you’ll be exploring —wider, more aggressive designs for deep snow and narrower ones for packed trails.

Get Proper Footwear

Wear insulated, waterproof boots that fit well and are compatible with your snowshoes. They should provide good ankle support and warmth. Always be sure to allow for adequate space in the front of your boots, typically no less than 1/2″ of wiggle room.

Dress Appropriately for Snowshoeing

Like any winter activity, it is all about layering. This way you can adjust your body’s temperature depending on how hard you are working. Its never good to sweat, you can end up very cold. In fact, I always start my hikes on the colder side and then adjust as I heat up.

So what type of layers do you need to start snowshoeing?

Base Layers

Base layers are essential for staying comfortable and dry during outdoor activities. Worn directly against your skin, they manage moisture by wicking sweat away from your body and provide insulation to retain heat. Made from materials like merino wool, synthetic fabrics, or a blend, base layers come in various weights to suit different conditions. For optimal performance, choose a base layer that fits snugly but comfortably. A good base layer is crucial for maintaining comfort and regulating your body temperature while you are snowshoeing. See below for my favorites!

Winter Leggings

Winter leggings are a crucial part of your snowshoeing gear, as they keep you warm, dry, and comfortable in cold conditions. Firstly, they are designed from materials such as thermal fleece, merino wool, or moisture-wicking synthetics, which provide excellent insulation while managing sweat and moisture. Additionally, leggings that offer a snug yet flexible fit, allowing for freedom of movement and ensuring they comfortably fit under snow pants or overboots. Lastly, features like a high waistband contribute to added warmth, while flat seams help prevent chafing.

By selecting the right winter leggings, you’ll stay cozy and agile throughout your snowshoeing adventures. I am obsessed with Title Nine’s Crash 2.0 Polartec Leggings for my winter outings. Definitely always my top pick for what to wear hiking in the winter.

Mid Layer

A mid-layer fleece plays an important role in your layering system by providing essential insulation and warmth. Positioned between your base layer and outer shell, it traps heat close to your body while allowing moisture from sweat to escape. This balance of insulation and breathability helps regulate your body temperature, keeping you warm without overheating. Additionally, a mid-layer fleece offers flexibility and can be adjusted based on activity level and weather conditions. Its lightweight, often breathable material ensures comfort and ease of movement, making it an indispensable component for staying warm and dry while snowshoeing.

Outer Layer

An outer layer puffy jacket is essential for protecting against harsh weather conditions by providing superior insulation and wind resistance. Made from materials like down or synthetic fill, it traps body heat to keep you warm even in cold temperatures. If there is one item I will never leave at home it is this one! I feel the puffy is a a personal purchase, try several on and see which one speaks to you!

Wind Layer/ Rain Layer

Typically made from waterproof, windproof, or water-resistant materials, this layer acts as a protective barrier that keeps you dry and insulated while allowing excess heat and moisture to escape. Its primary function is to safeguard the layers beneath it and ensure that you stay comfortable in variable weather conditions. Additionally, many outer layers feature adjustable hoods, cuffs, and hems to enhance protection and fit. By wearing a well-designed outer layer, you maintain a stable and comfortable microclimate, making it easier to stay active and enjoy outdoor adventures regardless of the weather.

Hats + Gloves + Socks

Finally, lets not forget about your extremeties. A hat, neck warmer, and the right gloves and the right socks are important for setting you up for success. I tend to like a more lightweight glove or a mitten so I can keep my fingers together for warmth. For socks never use cotton, always choose a wool, synthetic or synthetic blend. And we all know, wearing a hat is a simple yet effective way to retain body heat, protect against the elements, and ensure overall warmth and comfort in cold weather.

Gaiters

While gaitors arent always necessary, I almost always put them on when heading out into the snow. These help keep snow out of your boots and pants but also add some extra warmth to your legs. And this also allows you to skip the snow pants and wear a synthetic legging if you want!

What to Pack When you Snowshoe?

When preparing for a snowshoeing adventure, packing the right gear is essential for safety, comfort, and of course, enjoyment. Essential items include a map and compass or GPS, a headlamp with extra batteries, a first aid kit, and a whistle. For hydration and energy, bring a water bottle or hydration pack and high-energy snacks like granola bars or nuts. Additional necessities are sunscreen, lip balm, and a camera or smartphone for capturing the scenery. Don’t forget a multi-tool or knife for emergencies and an emergency blanket or bivvy sack for warmth. Optional but useful items include a portable charger, which I highly recommend!

How to Walk in Snowshoes

To start, try to walk normally: Walk with a natural stride. Try to keep your steps relaxed and fluid. Snowshoes are designed to distribute your weight and prevent you from sinking too deeply into the snow. Use a natural gait, don’t try to adjust to much initially. Because snowshoes are larger than your regular footwear, lift your feet slightly higher than usual to prevent the snowshoes from dragging or catching on the snow.

Climbing Uphill: When going uphill, use a zigzag pattern if the incline is steep. This technique helps to manage the gradient and makes climbing easier.

Descending Downhill: When going downhill, take smaller, controlled steps. Lean slightly back and use your poles for additional support and stability.

Basic Tips for a Safe and Enjoyable Snowshoeing Experience

• Check Weather and Trail Conditions: Always check the weather forecast and trail conditions before heading out. Conditions can change rapidly in winter.
• Know Your Limits: Choose trails that match your fitness level and experience. Don’t push beyond your limits, especially in challenging conditions.
• Inform Someone of Your Plans: Let a friend or family member know your planned route and expected return time. You might even leave a note on your dashboard as to your destination and return time estimate.
• Check avalanche conditions if you are headed out into the backcountry. For Washington check NWAC. They also offer free 1 hour online webinar to help you understand their tools.
• Respect Nature: Follow Leave No Trace principles to preserve the beauty of the trails and protect wildlife.

Where to Snowshoe in Washington?

Washington State offers a wide range of fantastic snowshoeing locations, catering to various skill levels and preferences. Here are some of my top spots where you can enjoy snowshoeing.

For more in-depth info on each spot, check out:

Mount Rainier National Park

• Nisqually Vista Trail: 1.1 mile loop, 180 ft of elevation gain
• Glacier Vista Trail: 2.8 miles, 912 ft of elevation gain
• Narada Falls: 0.3 miles, 59 feet elevation gain
• Mazama Ridge, via Skyline: 5.5 miles, 1328 ft of elevation gain
• High Hut Snowshoe (technically not in MRNP but part of the Tahoma Trails Association)

Snoqualmie Pass

• Franklin Falls Snowshoe Trail : 6.9 mile out and back, 819 ft of elevation gain
• Gold Creek Pond Loop : 4.5 mile lollipop, 167 ft of elevation gain

Leavenworth

• Lake Wenatchee Snow Park – Washington State Info
• Icicle Ridge – WTA INFO

Stevens Pass

• Skyline Lake – 2.8 mile out and back, 1,059 ft of elevation gain

Mount Baker

• Artist Point – 4.4 miles, 918 ft of elevation gain

Mountain Loop Highway

• Heather Lake – 4.4 miles out and back, 1204 ft of elevation gain.
• Big 4 Ice Caves – 2.4 miles, 305 ft of elevation gain.
• Lake 22 – *please make sure you check avalanche conditions as it crosses multiple shoots
• Lake Serene – *please make sure you check avalanche conditions as it crosses multiple shoots

It might seem daunting but once you get out a few times, you will surely get the hang of it. Let me know in the comments below how it went once you get out. And of course, if you have any questions or I can help in anyway!

Happy Snowshoeing!