Snowshoeing: the ideal activity to enjoy the beauty of winter
December 22, 2025
Of all winter sports, snowshoeing is the most accessible, least dangerous, and least expensive activity. Thanks to technology, snowshoeing is gaining popularity as a winter sport. Outdoor enthusiasts and forest hikers have adopted the smaller and lighter modern snowshoes.
Snowshoes are the lightest equipment for exploring mountains in winter. Snowshoes allow you to easily navigate between trees, where skiers would not even attempt to go. Snowshoeing can be enjoyed freely: it does not require any special facilities. It is therefore the ideal way to explore quiet areas.
Whether using traditional wooden snowshoes or more modern equipment, outdoor enthusiasts continue to be charmed by this winter activity. Snowshoeing is the ideal activity for getting back to nature. Once you are properly equipped, you can set out to conquer the great outdoors.
Snowshoeing does not require extensive training and is therefore accessible to everyone. Simply put on your snowshoes, walk at your own pace and that of the nature around you. It is a wonderful way to get away from it all, relax and forget all the little worries of everyday life.
Getting away on snowshoes is an opportunity to revitalize oneself in the great outdoors and simply do something nice for oneself. In terms of equipment, nothing could be simpler: a pair of snowshoes, good waterproof hiking boots, and walking poles to distribute the muscular effort.
Considered an excellent all-round endurance activity, snowshoeing is an opportunity to improve breathing, protect the heart and work all the muscles in the body. Snowshoeing is not just a healthy walk: it is a complete activity that burns calories.
Whether you are an expert or a novice snowshoer, it is important to be well prepared before each outing on the trails. Regardless of the length of the hike, it is recommended that you bring at least a backpack in which you can carry a bottle of water, snacks, and a flashlight so that you are ready to deal with any unexpected circumstances.
The most important thing when going snowshoeing is to have very comfortable shoes. You need shoes that are warm and, above all, waterproof. To protect your ankles throughout the day, it is advisable to wear high-top shoes so that your feet are well supported.
The three-layer system is the best way to dress for snowshoeing. The first layer, in contact with the skin, must be breathable to keep your body dry. The second layer will insulate your body from the cold. Choose synthetic fiber clothing. The last layer is the one in direct contact with the wind, rain, or snow. It must be impermeable to all of these elements.
Be sure to check the weather forecast and trail conditions before setting out so that you can adjust your equipment if necessary. For example, you can determine whether you need to use walking sticks or crampons. Don’t forget to tell a friend or family member where you are going so that they can notify emergency services of your location if necessary.
A magical setting takes over Cape Breton Highlands National Park in winter. Trees covered in sparkling snow and peaceful trails await hiking and snowshoeing enthusiasts. Please note that access to some trailheads may be limited during winter, as priority for snow removal is given to the Cabot Trail road.
The National Park offers snowshoe rentals at the Ingonish Visitor Centre by advance reservation, and unmarked trails remain open for winter adventures. Be prepared for sudden weather changes, especially along the coast and on the plateau. On the trails, be aware of wind that can blow snow and cover your tracks, making it more difficult to for you to take the same route for the return journey.
Anyone visiting Cape Breton Highlands National Park during winter must ensure their own safety, be well prepared and take the necessary precautions to protect themselves from inclement weather and potential natural hazards in the park.
