Snowshoes : useful information

There’s hiking, suspension bridges, trails and now snowshoeing. It’s a matter of taste, and it’s all in nature. Snowshoeing often follows the same paths as hiking. But beware: their manoeuvrability means they can’t cover all types of terrain. Snowshoeing is best done in winter, so as not to sink into the snow, and it is then possible to climb to summits beyond the forest. It is important to respect the biotopes you cross and the protected areas that are home to wildlife. Stressful encounters between humans and wild animals weaken them and their flight depletes their winter reserves. The routes must be in harmony with nature and wildlife:

        • Respect quiet areas and wildlife protection sites: wild animals like to retreat there.
        • In woodland, stay on the paths and follow the recommended routes: wild animals can get used to your presence.
        • Avoid the edges of woodland and snow-free areas: wild animals are particularly fond of these places.
        • Keep your dog on a lead, especially in woodland: wild animals will flee if you let them.

A few more rules to put to your benefit:

      • Snowshoeing requires more energy than hiking, requires a certain knowledge of your equipment and does not allow rapid movement. Good physical condition remains necessary.
      • Apart from marked and secure paths, DVA-probe-shovels are essential equipment for your survival which requires certain know-how. If in doubt, contact a mountain professional who will be able to advise you. Azimut Montagne 

Be sure to take this essential winter equipment with you:

 

      • Well-profiled mountain shoes with gaiters
      • Sun protection (cap, sunscreen, glasses)
      • Warm, functional and spare clothes suitable for the weather of the day
      • Sufficient food and drink
      • DVA-shovel probe with reading of the avalanche bulletin
      • Means of communication, orientation and good preparation for your race (track, compass, GPS, altimeter, 3*3 rule)
      • Emergency pharmacy
      • Survival blanket
      • Backpack adapted to your ambitions
      • Snowshoes and poles

That’s it, all I have to do is wish you good wind and nice snow. Have fun.