What Are the Top 5 Reasons Why You Should Start Snowshoeing This Winter?

Skiing, snowboarding, and sledding are the most common winter activities. Maybe tubing also comes to mind. However, the age-old talent of snowshoeing has become more popular than ever in recent years. Over 3.7 million Americans went snowshoeing at least once in 2017, the most recent year for which data is available, and the figure has been steadily rising for at least a decade.

Snowshoeing can burn up to 300 calories per hour, depending on your body weight and how hard you hoof it, which is more than a typical jog. Not only that, but you get to explore your favorite routes, breathe fresh air, and marvel at nature's magnificence when everyone else is huddling indoors.

It's Less Dangerous and Less Difficult Than Skiing

One disadvantage of skiing is that even a gentle slope can cause significant injury. Olympic athletes have been known to twist a knee or an ankle during a warmup run, and many skiers have died on steep, challenging slopes. The same could be said of snowboarding.

Another downside of skiing and snowboarding is that they both require a lot of practice. If you've never skied before, you'll need to take lessons, which may include a few weekends of following an instructor down the bunny hill while your friends ski the more difficult slopes. Not only that, but much of your time "skiing" at a ski resort is waiting in line or riding a lift with other skiers.

Snowshoeing is easy to learn and does not require any prior experience. It takes approximately five to ten minutes to get used to walking in these, and that's all there is to it! Just make sure to approach hills from the side to avoid stepping on your own snowshoes.

It Is Reasonably Priced

Many winter activities are exorbitantly priced. A weekend of skiing can be inexpensive if you rent skis or a snowboard unless you have access to your own private mountain, in which case money is unlikely to be an issue. 

Even if you own your own equipment, a lift ticket at some of the more expensive resorts can easily cost $50, $100, or even more. It becomes a pricey hobby if you attend more than a few times a year.

Meanwhile, once you get started, snowshoeing is virtually free. Many parks do not charge a fee for snowshoeing, and those that do normally request $5 or $10 to cover trail maintenance costs. You could easily go snowshoeing once a week without worrying about the cost.

It's a Lot of Fun

All of the reasons listed above are compelling reasons to start snowshoeing this winter. But there's another reason that's just as important: it's fun! It's a great opportunity to catch some fresh air and experience the beauty of nature while it's still chilly and dead outside.

In addition, if you have a dog, he or she will enjoy the opportunity to explore a new land. This may be a lot of fun for both of you and a great way to beat the winter blues.