Winter often has us feeling stuck indoors and lacking in fresh air. Snowshoeing is a great way to get outside, access nature and stay fit in colder months.
Unlike many winter activities, snowshoeing is relatively inexpensive and easy to learn. It doesn’t require lessons or costly gear, and there is often enough snow on nearby trails to avoid a long drive up the I-70 corridor. If you can walk, you can snowshoe!
Keep in mind that you will only need snowshoes if snow depths are more than about 6 inches, or you’re sinking into the snow. If the snow is hard-packed or icy then you should use microspikes instead of snowshoes, according to Colorado.com.
Nathan Otteman is the general manager at Angles Sports in Longmont. Angels is the only area business that offers rental gear for winter sports, including ski and snowboard rentals.
“We increased our inventory of gear this year so we could extend the season. It’s been a busy rental season already,” Otteman said.
When asked for advice on where to snowshoe in and around Longmont, Otteman replied, “Union is a good option if you’re east of town, and of course we always see people Nordic skiing on Sunset Golf Course. You can snowshoe there, too, but just be wary of not walking in the ski tracks. Golden Ponds is another good option.”
Longmont resident Xyla Holden lives near McIntosh Lake and often sees people taking advantage of a snow day to snowshoe on the trail there.
“If we get a lot of snow, I head out my front door with snowshoes and do a walk around the lake. It’s pretty flat so it’s great for beginners and it’s under four miles,” she said.
The Visit Longmont website recommends checking out Heil Valley Ranch or Rabbit Mountain Open Space, both of which have several trail options for winter snowshoeing.
Colorado Wilderness Rides and Guides is based in Gunbarrel and offers guided snowshoe hikes for those who want something a bit more adventurous. Many of their tours take place in nearby Rocky Mountain National Park and the Indian Peaks Wilderness area.
Otteman does advise that people make certain to choose the right snowshoes for their level of activity and the terrain they prefer.
“One benefit of renting is that you can try something before you make a purchase and commit to it, and you have someone there to help you understand how to use it the right way,” he said.
Angels Sports stocks hiking snowshoes, which are designed with a larger deck. “We get a lot of powder in Colorado, and the bigger base helps to keep you from sinking in the snow,” Otteman said. The larger deck is also helpful for individuals who weigh more or are carrying extra weight in a backpack.
Waterproof hiking boots are essential for snowshoeing adventures. They will help keep your feet warm and dry. While shoe preferences are very personal, Otteman said having the right pair can make a big difference.
“You want to be comfortable, and it’s important to keep your feet from getting wet,” he said.
Otteman recommends pairing the right shoes with warm wool socks to insulate the feet and help wick moisture.
