Snowshoeing: What is it?
Take two tennis racquets, strap 'em to your feet, and walk in the snow.

Snowshoeing: Why would I want to hike in the snow?
You won't. Only kids like to play in the snow. Grownups get cold, wet and miserable in the winter.

Snowshoeing: Why should I keep reading this link?
As it turns out... it's exhilarating to snowshoe! After climbing your first summit in the Adirondacks you'll be begging for more!

Part 1: Basic Thinking

To be safe and successful in the woods, one must possess the right attitude, knowledge-base, gear and a modicum of common sense. With this in mind... you're now snowshoeing material!

The right attitude: This is my second year of snowshoeing. That means, I've walked in the woods behind my home and I've climbed three easy summits in the Adirondacks. I have a history of backpacking and I'm comfortable with my skills in the woods. I let others know where I'm hiking, I log-in/out at trail heads, and I pack food, clothing and gear for the unlikely potential of having a problem. I respect my hiking/snowshoeing limits and experiences.

Knowledge: Before strapping on a pair of snowshoes, I talked to experienced snowshoers about beginner trails, gear and winter hiking Do-s/Don'ts. I read on the subject. Compared with 3-season hiking... winter hiking requires a different sensitivity and knowledge-base for safety. Winter hiking means, everything freezes. Be prepared.

Gear: You can spend $2000 on Gore-Tex clothing and cool gear and still die in the backcountry. Be confident with your skills in the woods, the gear you choose to pack, and the food/drink you'll rely on.

Common sense: Use your head. Don't agonize as to what to do. Turn around and go home when (only) 15-ft of ice prevents you from reaching the summit because you don't have strap-on crampons.