Snowshoeing Frequently Asked Questions:
What IS snowshoeing?
Snowshoeing is a time-tested means of travel that involves walking over snow with the help of snowshoes. We think of snowshoeing as winter hiking made easier with snowshoes. Snowshoes were probably first used thousands of years ago in the cold regions of Asia, Europe and North America. Today, the modern snowshoes that are typically used are made to be worn with any type of sturdy outdoor footwear--hiking boots or winter boots. Snowshoes help to provide some flotation on top of snow, depending on the conditions, as well as traction for easier mobility.
Will I be able to snowshoe even if I have never tried it before?
Yes! Snowshoeing is great for all ages and is quite easy to learn. For the most part, it is only slightly more physically demanding than walking on comparable terrain. We also offer hiking/trekking poles for guests to use to add to their comfort and stability while out on the trails. With all of that said, snowshoeing is an active mode of travel, so guests should be in reasonable physical condition and be able to walk for 60 to 90 minutes and get up should they fall in the snow (we will of course help!). We always do our best to cater all tours to the desires of the participants, and are happy to set a pace that is comfortable for all.
Will tours still run if it is really cold?
Yes! It can indeed get very cold in Fairbanks in the winter. It is not unusual to see air temperatures as low as -30 or -40F (-40C). We are willing and able to operate snowshoe tours at these temperatures, as it can make for an unforgettable experience and a great story to tell others! Moving your body by snowshoeing is a great way to stay warm enough in the cold, and Fairbanks does not typically experience strong winds at these temperatures like other places in the world so there is not usually added danger from wind chill. We do not recommend bringing children under 14 on a tour at temperatures below -20F as it can be very difficult for them to stay warm enough. Please check the weather prior to arriving for your tour and come with appropriate cold weather gear, as you are able.
How should I dress?
We recommend the following: a good winter coat or parka over several layers of warm tops, snowpants or other sufficient outerwear with thermal bottoms, a warm hat, scarf, mittens, warm wool socks, and well-insulated winter boots (please no tennis shoes!). Of these, we think the two most important pieces of clothing that you should try to come equipped with are warm winter boots and warm mittens (definitely warmer for your hands than gloves!). We can provide some supplemental gear, but we highly encourage your to bring what you can to keep yourself comfortable while snowshoeing outside for up to 90 minutes--especially at very cold temperatures. We can supplement boots with toe warmers and occasionally offer warmer footwear for certain sizes as needed, but please keep in mind that our range of sizes and options for additional clothing or footwear is limited. There are also several places in town which rent cold weather gear, including Alaska Element in Fairbanks. If you go that route, contact Heather direct at [email protected].
Do you provide the snowshoes?
Yes! That's the great thing about coming on a tour with us--we stock a variety of snowshoe shapes and sizes to fit the boots you are wearing. You don't need any special footwear (but don't forget your warmest boots!). Snowshoes and hiking pole use is included in the cost of our snowshoe tours, so there is no need to rent anything ahead of time and no additional fees from us.
If you have any other questions or are wondering if snowshoeing is right for you, just ask us!
What IS snowshoeing?
Snowshoeing is a time-tested means of travel that involves walking over snow with the help of snowshoes. We think of snowshoeing as winter hiking made easier with snowshoes. Snowshoes were probably first used thousands of years ago in the cold regions of Asia, Europe and North America. Today, the modern snowshoes that are typically used are made to be worn with any type of sturdy outdoor footwear--hiking boots or winter boots. Snowshoes help to provide some flotation on top of snow, depending on the conditions, as well as traction for easier mobility.
Will I be able to snowshoe even if I have never tried it before?
Yes! Snowshoeing is great for all ages and is quite easy to learn. For the most part, it is only slightly more physically demanding than walking on comparable terrain. We also offer hiking/trekking poles for guests to use to add to their comfort and stability while out on the trails. With all of that said, snowshoeing is an active mode of travel, so guests should be in reasonable physical condition and be able to walk for 60 to 90 minutes and get up should they fall in the snow (we will of course help!). We always do our best to cater all tours to the desires of the participants, and are happy to set a pace that is comfortable for all.
Will tours still run if it is really cold?
Yes! It can indeed get very cold in Fairbanks in the winter. It is not unusual to see air temperatures as low as -30 or -40F (-40C). We are willing and able to operate snowshoe tours at these temperatures, as it can make for an unforgettable experience and a great story to tell others! Moving your body by snowshoeing is a great way to stay warm enough in the cold, and Fairbanks does not typically experience strong winds at these temperatures like other places in the world so there is not usually added danger from wind chill. We do not recommend bringing children under 14 on a tour at temperatures below -20F as it can be very difficult for them to stay warm enough. Please check the weather prior to arriving for your tour and come with appropriate cold weather gear, as you are able.
How should I dress?
We recommend the following: a good winter coat or parka over several layers of warm tops, snowpants or other sufficient outerwear with thermal bottoms, a warm hat, scarf, mittens, warm wool socks, and well-insulated winter boots (please no tennis shoes!). Of these, we think the two most important pieces of clothing that you should try to come equipped with are warm winter boots and warm mittens (definitely warmer for your hands than gloves!). We can provide some supplemental gear, but we highly encourage your to bring what you can to keep yourself comfortable while snowshoeing outside for up to 90 minutes--especially at very cold temperatures. We can supplement boots with toe warmers and occasionally offer warmer footwear for certain sizes as needed, but please keep in mind that our range of sizes and options for additional clothing or footwear is limited. There are also several places in town which rent cold weather gear, including Alaska Element in Fairbanks. If you go that route, contact Heather direct at [email protected].
Do you provide the snowshoes?
Yes! That's the great thing about coming on a tour with us--we stock a variety of snowshoe shapes and sizes to fit the boots you are wearing. You don't need any special footwear (but don't forget your warmest boots!). Snowshoes and hiking pole use is included in the cost of our snowshoe tours, so there is no need to rent anything ahead of time and no additional fees from us.
If you have any other questions or are wondering if snowshoeing is right for you, just ask us!