WHAT TO PACK WHEN BACKCOUNTRY SNOWSHOEING

June 25, 2022

When planning your backcountry snowshoe adventure be sure to make that list and check it twice! Creating a list of items to bring is a great way to ensure you don't leave anything behind because forgetting one important item on your list can ruin your day in the snow. Here is a list I use before I venture deep into the backcountry on my snowshoes. These items will allow you to explore the wilderness with the confidence of a safe and unforgettable trip.

Backcountry Snowshoe Checklist

-The best snowshoes

-Trekking Poles

-Large powder baskets for trekking poles

-Warm winter boots

-Warm Gloves

-Toque

-Sunglasses or Ski goggles

-Warm clothing layers (see our blog on what to wear)

-Extra shirt (in case you get sweaty)

-First Aid Kit

-Cell Phone (for calling out for emergency is cell service available)

-Camera (if you don’t bring your phone)

-Garmin InReach (for communication if no cell service is available)

-GPS and compass

-Map

-Water

-Bear spray (if snowshoeing in fall or spring)

-Energy bars and snacks

-Multitool (Leatherman)

-Lighter or waterproof matches

-A few large zip ties (in case you need to make an emergency repair)

-Leave information as to where you are going and how long you will be away with a friend or family member

When in avalanche terrain having avalanche specific gear is also crucial.

Avalanche transceiver: A type of emergency beacon that emits a signal that rescuers can pick up with their transceivers. The receiving transceivers interprets the signal into a visual and audible display that assists the search and rescuers.

Avalanche Shovel: A lightweight aluminum shovel that breaks down, specifically designed for testing snow conditions and digging out victims.

Avalanche Probe: A collapsible probe used to try and locate a buried victim near the final phase of the search.

Avalanche Airbag Packs: These are not essential; however, they are gaining lots of popularity. Airbags are incorporated into the pack and are deployed by pulling a ripcord that instantly inflates the airbags causing you to float near the top of the avalanche.

Don’t make the mistake of putting on too many layers at the beginning of the trail. It's easy to make the mistake of putting on all your layers at the start of your snowshoe adventure and by the time you are 15 minutes down the trail you are already damp from excess perspiration. It is always better to start off a little cold and as you venture down the trail, your core temperature begins to rise and with less layers your clothes will stay drier. Another great tip is to pack more water and food then you think you will need. Snowshoeing can be a high intensity workout and calorie burn; you will want to rehydrate and have enough food to give you that much needed energy to complete your desired trail.

Remember that a little planning can go a long way. Your best snowshoe trips will be the ones that are properly planned. Backcountry snowshoeing is a rewarding sport that offers the solitude that many of us yearn for. By properly planning your trip, knowing what to bring, checking that list twice and keeping snowshoe safety in mind by following these snowshoeing safety tips, it will ensure you have that amazing backcountry experience you are looking for.

WHAT TO PACK WHEN BACKCOUNTRY SNOWSHOEING

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