Snowshoe Revelry
Mountain Matters
Photography: Dan Campbell
Were you ever out in the Great Alone, when the moon was awful clear,
And the icy mountains hemmed you in with a silence you most could hear . . . – Robert Service
This stirring wilderness image by poet Robert Service, describing the winter’s journey of two Alaskan explorers, captures for me the feelings I had as a youth trying out my dad’s old snowshoes in the back yard. What fascination, what fun, what an adventure! It wasn’t until my late teens that my snowshoeing exploits accelerated in earnest with day-long trips and week-long camping forays in the Adirondack Mountains of New York. Now some 40 years later, modern materials and upgrades of technology have transported recreational snowshoeing to the forefront of winter sport, even surpassing the popularity of Nordic skiing. Quite simply, if you can walk, you can snowshoe.
The modern day snowshoe is versatile and reliable. There’s a style for every specialized use and even men’s and women’s models. When I first experimented with my dad’s snowshoes, they were the old ash wood frame and rawhide constructions, attached to my galoshes by stiff moose hide bindings. Not so anymore. With just one tug on an automatic strap locking system, you can step into a pair and quickly be on your way.
A knowledgeable retail or rental store person can help you assess your snowshoe needs and direct you to a proper pair. Snowshoes are chosen not only for various snow conditions, but also by your travel weight. There is the Native American Cree style, with a pointed front and beaver tail back; the more familiar Michigan style, resembling a large tennis racket; and the oval-shaped style Bear Paw, which makes you waddle from side to side as you walk. Each was originally designed for specific snow conditions and terrain. My favorite style is the Green Mountain Bear Paw, with a rounded head and tail section, designed by Tubbs Co. of Stowe, Vermont.
Living in the dry powder snow conditions of northern Utah, I usually trek in a slightly large snowshoe (9” x 30”). Sizes range from extra large (10” x 36”) all the way down to fitting a child’s size 1 snow boot. A few companies still make the beaver tail design, (i.e. Atlas, Co. and Redfeather Co.), although the Green Mountain Bear Paw design seems to be the norm. In addition, nowadays, added underneath the boot plate are toe and heel grips for better climbing, descending and lateral movement.
Although traveling along a packed trail makes it easier to get in and out of the forest quickly, it’s a lot more fun to make your own path, especially in fresh snow where the intent of the snowshoe design is put to better use.
Due to snowshoeing’s aerobic nature, you’ll be most com-fortable in light, layered clothing. A good quality under-layer next to your skin to wick away moisture, and a shirt, vest or lightweight sweater with a wind breaker should do the trick. Additionally, take another fleece-type layer in your daypack to stay warm when you’re taking a break. Normal ski pants are acceptable and socks work best worn in two layers: a thin synthetic pair with a heavier pair of a wool/synthetic blend over it. Good quality and sturdy snow boots rated down to at least zero degrees are also a must.
Take and drink plenty of water and use sunscreen and moisturizer throughout the day or you’ll dry up. Take easy, ready-to-eat snacks while trekking that will keep your inner fire burning. Don’t assume breakfast will last you until lunchtime. Depending on your pace, you may find yourself hungry before then. Also, a telescopic ski pole can be a true aid in ascending and descending steeper hills, because you can adjust it quickly to your trail requirements, or even pack it away when not needed. I use mine plenty to knock snow off heavily-laden tree branches and to help cross icy streams. And don’t forget your camera!
You can find all sorts of snowshoeing possibilities in the Summit and Wasatch County areas and not far from Park City. As for where to go, consult a knowledgeable friend or hire a guide from one of several outdoor adventure programs in town. Get trail maps and review them before heading out and observe basic landmarks along the way. Always be sure to make your route known to someone else. In short order, this incredibly fun and adventurous activity could become a favorite winter sport. It’ll clear your head, maybe help you shed a few pounds, and strengthen your body and mind. What more could you ask from an activity where you can simply float atop the snow with no lift lines and the sound of silence? Hope to see you out there.
Chas Rauch is a long-time mountain man who has lived in Utah for 22 years.
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