Walking In A Winter Wonderland

Algoma Country place where winter adds an elegant touch to the magnificent wilderness, creating new adventures with so many different ways to explore it. And one of our favourite fun ways to experience the region in winter is by snowshoeing.

Over the past few years, snowshoeing has resurged to become a recreational hit that lets hikers continue their hobby into the winter months. I don't exactly remember how old I was I learned how to snowshoe but I remember how much fun it was! I remember bundling up in layers of warm winter clothes and setting out into the crisp winter air to explore the woods and fields around me. Nothing else compares to the sound of soft crunchy new-fallen snow under your boot while you explore the silent, peaceful landscape. It's like the entire land has gone to sleep and you're tiptoeing through it.

What To Expect From A Snowshoe Walk In Algoma

If you're a snowshoe newbie, or an experienced one looking for a new winter destination to explore, Algoma Country is the perfect place to snowshoe because you're going to experience the most breathtaking winter scenes. Imagine white, snow-capped mountains with pine trees thickly glazed in snow and ice. Imagine looking up at sheer rock faces caked in glistening frozen icicles. Picture frozen waterfalls and winter wildlife in the rugged, rocky Canadian Shield. Visualize yourself snowshoeing through a landscape after a snowfall where literally no one has walked before you have. This is a real snowshoe adventure that you can have in Algoma.

Some Tips About Snowshoe Gear

The list of what you need to snowshoe is pretty simple:

• Snowshoes
• Ski poles to help your balance (optional)
• Warm winter clothing

If you're looking to buy snowshoes, you should consider the following:

There are three types of snowshoes:

•  Recreational Hiking - great for newbies and work best on simple flat terrain
•  Aerobic / Fitness - best for active snowshoers
•  Hiking / Backpacking - great for powder conditions and experienced snowshoers

Cost:
Snowshoes can be priced from $100 and up depending on the manufacturer.

Size:
Generally, you measure in inches and the length depends on your weight. The most common adult sizes are 25", 30" and 36".

This website gives you the key elements for buying snowshoes: https://www.backcountry.com/explore/how-to-choose-snowshoes

Shop Local

• Great Lakes Outfitters in Sault Ste. Marie carries a variety of snowshoes and accessories.
• SSM Outfitters in the Canal District carries a variety of winter clothing and accessories.

Where To Snowshoe In Algoma

• Hiawatha Highlands
• Stokely Creek Lodge
• Community-based Trail Systems
• Cottages and Cabins offering winter getaways
• For backcountry snow hikes try Lake Superior Provincial Park or other parks that allow winter activities beyond their gates.
• Thrive Tours - Guided Snowshoe Hikes with Indigenous interceptive teachings
• Forest the Canoe - Guided Snowshoe Hikes

*Depending on what trail system you choose to snowshoe, you may need to purchase a day pass.

Five Important Things To Remember When Snowshoeing

1. It's a great low-impact sport and burns about twice as many calories as walking. And it's fun!

2. Dress in layers - if you get warm, you can always remove a layer. Remember to wear waterproof pants, jackets and boots, and wear a woollen hat, mitts, socks and bring sunglasses. A strong glare comes off of snow when sunlight hits it.

3. Get the gear - snowshoeing is inexpensive and you don't even have to own a pair if you don't want to. You can either rent or buy hand-me-downs.

4. Bring your camera - a must because you'll want to capture your winter adventure to share with friends and family.

5. Find Trails - if you're a newbie, it's a good idea to start on groomed trails to get the hang of snowshoeing. Many accommodations in Algoma can offer you trail maps.

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