My first time Snowshoeing

I’ve never really been into winter sports but I’m always up for trying something new. I was on a business trip in Vancouver, B.C. and met up with an old friend who suggested we go snowshoeing. I remember seeing one of her Instagram posts and asked her to take me to the exact same spot! It turns out that spot was Cypress Mountain, which is only 30min from downtown Vancouver.

What is snowshoeing?

Simply put, it is hiking in snow!

Snowshoeing is essentially walking in snow with specific footwear called snowshoes. The shoes help to evenly distribute body weight and stops your feet from sinking into the snow.

Snowshoeing in Cypress Mountain

We embarked upon a self-guided snowshoe tour (guided tours are also available) and as we had our own snowshoe gear, we only paid for the trail ticket which was $14.. The trail was around 10km and there was a cute little lodge café along the way. The snowshoeing itself was calm and relaxing. It was something new and different for me but I’m glad I tried it – just another activity I can tick off my list (I need to try skiing next!). There were times I thought I would slip and fall as some paths were thin but that could’ve be my nerves as I was a complete beginner! I went in March so it was quite cold but once you’ve been at it for a little while, you don’t even feel it too much (I mean, I survived in thin leggings!). It’s actually quite good for exercising – it’s low impact and you can go at any pace you like – the tougher trails give you a good workout! There is no prior training required; if you can walk, you can snowshoe, but if you decide to opt for a tougher trail then you may need to learn how to traverse the slopes and how to prepare for extreme weather conditions.

Me!

The scenery was so picturesque, just like out of a postcard. My friend is an outdoors enthusiast so I felt safe accompanied by her. I followed her along the trail until we took a break and sat in the snow, gazing at the snowy trees and landscape surrounding us.

Other things to do at Cypress Mountain:

  • Skiing / Cross country skiing
  • Snowtubing
  • Snowboarding
  • Lights to the Lodge
  • Eat & drink
  • Enrol at the Cypress Mountain Snow School for lessons

Tips:

  • Check your petrol before driving up the mountain
  • Stay hydrated
  • Layer up and wear waterproof clothing
  • Wear hiking boots or winter boots – they are most appropriate as the snowshoe straps onto your actual shoes (waterproof overboots can be rented at Cypress Mountain!)

Further Info:

  • Address: 6000 Cypress Bowl Rd, Vancouver, BC V0N 1G0
  • Contact number: +1 604-926-5612
  • Each activity has separate opening hours
  • Cypress offers a shuttle service. See http://cypresscoachlines.com/ for more info, schedules and fares
  • Small coin operated storage lockers are available for $2
  • Ski or snowboard equipment is available to rent
  • If you want to buy your own snowshoes, flat terrain ones are recommended for a first pair
  • Refer to the official website of Cypress Mountain for more info, safety tips and what to take with you.