Snowfall Time
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.Ā Ā 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.Ā Ā 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?Ā A good marker is -15 +/- (temperature or wind chill).Ā Ā Ā 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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