Winter beckons with snow-covered landscapes, and there is hardly a more beautiful way to explore them than on snowshoes. Snowshoeing combines the experience of nature with sporting activity and is also easily accessible for beginners. But what equipment do you need and where can you find the most beautiful routes? In this article, you can find out everything about snowshoeing - from the basics to the best tour tips.
Table of contents
What is snowshoeing anyway?
Where can you go snowshoe hiking?
Snowshoe hiking equipment: What do you need?
Which snowshoe is the right one?
The most beautiful snowshoe tours
The right equipment for your next snowshoe hike
What is snowshoeing anyway?
Snowshoeing is a way of getting around in the snow that has its origins in the indigenous peoples of North America, Mongolia and the Arctic. In order to avoid sinking in deep snow, they developed snowshoes that distribute the weight better thanks to their large contact surface.
Today, snowshoeing is a popular winter sport that does not require any special technical skills. The only requirement is a good level of fitness, as the tours can be quite strenuous depending on the route.
Where can you go snowshoeing?
Snowshoeing is possible almost anywhere where there is snow. Particularly popular are
- Mountain regions such as the Alps or the Black Forest
- Forests and hills away from the ski slopes
- Nature reserves (taking into account the rules for the protection of flora and fauna)
Many areas offer special, well-signposted snowshoe trails with nature-friendly routes to avoid scaring off animals. Find out in advance about any avalanche danger and observe the regional regulations.
Snowshoeing equipment: what do you need?
The right equipment is the be-all and end-all for a successful snowshoe hike. Here is a checklist of the essentials:
Snowshoes
The basis of your hike. They are designed to keep you on the snow and provide stability.
Winter boots
Waterproof winter boots or robust mountain boots are ideal. They keep your feet warm and dry.
Hiking poles/telescopic poles
They help you keep your balance and make the ascent easier.
Winter clothing
The onion principle is ideal: several layers keep you warm and regulate your body temperature. https://petromax.de/collections/outdoor-kleidung
Emergency equipment
A first aid kit, a rescue blanket, a shovel and a bivouac sack should not be missing in your rucksack.
Additional equipment
- Suitable rucksack
- Provisions and hot drinks in an insulated flask
- Sun protection (sun cream and sunglasses)
Which snowshoe is the right one?
Not every snowshoe is suitable for all conditions. Here is an overview:
Synthetic snowshoes
- Ideal for hard snow and wind-pressed snow
- Features:
- Narrow frame for high maneuverability
- Movable plastic top for good grip
- Serrated side rails for more safety
Aluminum snow shoes
- Perfect for new or deep snow
- Features:
- Flexible binding suspension for best cushioning
- Tear-resistant top
- Wider frame shape for more buoyancy
The most beautiful snowshoe tours
Here are some of the best tours for beginners and advanced snowshoers:
Snowshoe tour on Lake Tegernsee
To the Schwarzentenn-Alm and Buchsteinhütte
- Region: Bavaria
- Length: Round tour
- Special features: Accessible by public transport
- Further information: Schwarzentennalm and Buchsteinhütte
Klausenbergrunde snowshoe tour
Klausenbergrunde snowshoe tour
- Region: Bavaria
- Suitable for: Beginners
- Further information: Klausenbergrunde snowshoe tour
Snowshoe tour Giesbacher Kopf and snowshoe trail
Gießbacher Kopf - snowshoe trail
- Region: Black Forest
- Highlights: Beautiful view of St. Blasien
- Further information: Giesbacher Kopf snowshoe trail
Snowshoe hike to Wimbach Castle
Snowshoe hike to Wimbach Castle
- Region: Bavaria
- Further information: Snowshoe hike to Wimbach Castle
Snowshoe hike on the Kandel
Snowshoe hike on the Kandel - Snowshoe " outdooractive.com
- Region: Black Forest
- Suitable for: Families
- Further information: Snowshoe hike Kandel
With the right equipment for your next snowshoe hike
Equip yourself for your next tour with the right products from Petromax:
- Transport bags: Petromax Transport bags
- Insulated flasks: Petromax insulated flasks
So you are perfectly prepared and can enjoy your snowshoe adventure to the fullest!
