Some thoughts on the snowfall:

• The snow has fallen, but it hasn’t set up yet so it is difficult to ski or snowshoe as yet.   Several cycles of melt or additional weight of snowfall helps to set up the snow.
• Typically when the snow is 20 cm deep it is marginal for snowshoeing and 25 – 30 cm is better.
• Early nordic skiing and snowshoeing is best done on established tracks and trails.   Fallen branches, debris, rocks, and other hazards are problem since our shoes or skis go right through the snow to the base.
• Driving can be an issue so we will want to go to trailheads on ploughed roads, where possible.
• Parking areas are not usually cleared for some time so it may be hard to use some trails too.
• When is it too cold?  A good marker is -15 +/- (temperature or wind chill).    By -20 it is too cold.

If you nordic ski:

• start with established trails
• use rock skis (older sets)
• choose easier trails

If you snowshoe:

• pick double tracks, backroads, or well-established routes in the early season
• lower trails will be better for hiking
• do not venture onto lakes, ponds, and marshes

If you hike:

• wear good boots, carry traction devices (microspikes are best), and wear gaiters
• pick double tracks, wider trails, and established trails
• backroads are a good choice at this time of year
• poles help with stability

What to Wear

• layers work better than heavy outerwear.
• Toques and gloves
• Gaiters keep the snow out of boots
• Talk to experienced winter hikers, snowshoers, and skiers for advice….

DS

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Doug Smith

Retired now, I get into the outdoors most days to hike, paddle, camp, snowshoe, run, walk, or explore. More information can be found at: KamloopsTrails.net.

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