Getting Started

What To Wear
Activity levels and outside temperatures will dictate what apparel is best while snowshoeing. The key is to dress in layers that provide warmth, wind resistance and a way for perspiration to escape when the snowshoe pace is rigorous. NEVER WEAR COTTON CLOTHING!! It traps moisture against your skin and will chill you very quickly!

• Hat (Gortex, wool, etc.)
• Sunglasses or ski goggles
• Neck Warmer/Neck Gaiter/bandana
• Gloves/Mittens, wool or fleece, 2 pair
• Insulation Layers
• Heavy jacket in colder weather
• Wind & Water Resistant Outerwear (pants & jacket)
• Synthetic Long Underwear
• Synthetic under shirt (add fleece layer for colder days)
• Leg Gaiters
• Wool or synthetic Socks
• Socks - 2 pair: light weight poly under heavier wool or sythetics
• Waterproof Hiking Boots

remember the Scout motto - Be Prepared!
Whether venturing out on a local recreation path or deep in the backcountry, it is important to be prepared. Consider packing the following items for a more enjoyable and safe adventure.

**DON'T FOTGET THE TEN ESSENCIALS ON ANY OUTING!**

• **First Aid Kit
• **Map/Guide Book & Compass
• **Tarp/Emergency Blanket for shelter
• **Water and Food (lots of both!)
• **Waterproof/Windproof Matches
• **Fire starter
• **Flashlight or Headlamp
• **Knife or multitool
• **Extra clothing
• **Sunblock (always apply sunblock, even under your arms!)

• Allergy & prescription medications (with instructions)
• Waterproof Bandaids
• Bandages & waterproof tape
• Antiseptic cream (Bacitracin(
• Self adhesive athketic wrap
• Moleskin & foot powder
• Insect repellant
• Lip balm & sun block
• Matches (strike anywhere, waterproof)
• Emergency money (phone call...)

• Camera and Film
• Binoculars
• Collapsible snow shovel
• Fanny pack or light weight day pack
• Hydration system (camelback, etc.)
• Neoprene pull over booties (for wet snow)
• Change of clothes & shoes in the car
• Towel & personal care items (car)
• Thermos with hot drinks (car)
• Ski/hiking Poles (classic length is best)

And finally…
Hikers planning extended trips should advise a ranger station, friends, and family as to the destination and estimated time of return. Check the local weather forecast before heading out and always take a map and compass for anything other than short, local hikes.

Be sure all equipment is in good repair prior to departure.

Regardless of how and where you snowshoe, always show courtesy to others and be aware that there are elements of risk that common sense and personal awareness can help reduce. Stay in control. Observe all posted signs and warnings. Keep off closed trails and out of closed areas. DON'T FORGET, 'LEAVE NO TRACE' APPLIES EVEN ON WINTER OURINGS!

Start off slowly to avoid excess fatigue part way through your hike. Hike only as fast as the slowest member of your group.