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Winter wilderness travel is inherently risky, and even if snowshoeing is the closest
thing to going for a walk down the street, it requires preparedness, knowledge of
backcountry travel, and some basic outdoor skills in order to do it safely.
If you snowshoe at a ski area or on a maintained trail system, routes are marked or
groomed, help is nearby, and your risks are substantially reduced. But the versatile
nature of snowshoeing often leads adventurous spirits off the trail and into the
backcountry where they’re subject to the same risks of cold weather exposure, route
finding, and avalanches as any other winter outdoor athlete. Even the simplest
excursion can quickly turn into a life or death situation. Here’s how to keep that
from happening.
- Dress appropriately.
Winter weather can be unpredictable and extreme. Sunny warmth can turn to chilling
precipitation in a matter of minutes, and when you’re exercising aerobically your own
body temperature can change just as rapidly. To account for all scenarios, layer your
clothing. It’s as important to stay cool (and thus dry) in the hot sun, or while
climbing a steep slope, as it is to be warm should the clouds turn against you. When
you rest after periods of sweaty exertion, throw on a jacket before your body cools
down. Carry a small pack, or keep supplies in a locker. Use goggles or sunglasses to
protect against UV radiation and blowing snow, and don’t be shy with the sunscreen.
- Drink, drink, drink.
Staying hydrated and well energized are key to safety in winter outdoor exercise. The
fatigue that comes with dehydration or a skipped meal can leave you cold or stranded.
Dehydration can even affect your decision making in life-threatening situations.
Drink regularly, aiming for one quart each hour, even in cold conditions. And stock
up on carbohydrates whenever you get the chance. In the mountains, lots of fluid
helps your body adjust to changing altitudes and prevents associated sicknesses,
headaches, and pulmonary edema.
- Follow the buddy system.
No regression to grade school days here; snowshoeing with a friend can save your life.
It’s always good to have the company of a friend should something go wrong, but if
you choose to travel the backcountry on avalanche-prone terrain, a partner is
essential. Traverse risky slopes one at a time, and equip yourselves with the
knowledge and gear to perform an avalanche rescue. Leave a trip itinerary with
friends at home, and register with the park service or local ranger before heading
out.
- Know your limits.
So you want to hike the Pacific Crest trail in one day? Be realistic. Like every
sport, snowshoeing is technique-oriented and requires stamina and fitness.
Overestimating your abilities can lead to disaster. Don’t plan a trip that will leave
you exhausted with muscles cramping 10 miles from the car, and hone your skills
before heading onto variable terrain. Hard-packed, steep surfaces, for example, can
be especially treacherous on snowshoes, where the frame can prevent your foot from
touching the ground and getting any traction.
- Survive.
The best way to ensure safe cross-country snowshoe travel is to know how to take care
of yourself. For wilderness travel, you’ll need a good map, navigation skills, and
avalanche awareness in order to stay on easy terrain and not get lost. Should you
plan a trip on more varied or mountainous terrain, be prepared with advanced
knowledge of avalanche condition analysis, appropriate safety gear like shovels and
transceivers, and a first aid kit.
Always make sure food and water are plentiful. Carry a cell phone if you have one
and basic medical supplies, including a compass and an emergency blanket. Even if you
never plan to leave the foot-packed trail at your community park, take a backcountry
safety course at your local ski area or your local park ranger station.
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