North America’s 4 Top Spring Snowshoe Destinations

The popular sport of snowshoeing makes for a great outdoor adventure and a wonderful way to get low-impact, cardiovascular exercise. Anyone who can walk may indulge in the sport that does not require any experience. There are a variety of destinations located across North America where winter sports enthusiasts of all ages may get out in the fresh air surrounded by picturesque scenery with the crunch of snow beneath their feet.

Prince of Wales Hotel- Waterton Lakes National Park, Alberta

The lodge area has a number of scenic lakeside or deep forest trails that are maintained for snowshoeing. However, there are also miles of back-country, off the beaten path routes to explore. Accommodations found here are perfect for guests desiring more private lodging, which include a series of fully-equipped, furnished cozy cabins and townhouses complete with fireplaces or wood-burning stoves. The main lodge features a restaurant and gift shop along with hot tubs, saunas and a massage spa. The facility also offers snowshoe equipment. The Prince of Wales area has a massive stone fireplace. Have a chef-prepared evening meal or grab a quick pizza from the facility. Other local lodges also have restaurants and there are a number of dining options within the community.

Sun Peaks Resort-British Columbia, Canada

From the dry, fluffy snow known as champagne powder to the miles upon miles of varied snowshoe terrain and the après ski opportunities, many equate Sun Peaks with a first-class European resort. Spanning more than 4,250 acres and having three mountain peaks, the destination lies a mere 45 minutes north of Kamloops. The facility offers snowshoe tours for every skill level that venture into the forests on level terrain, embark on wildlife viewing journeys or scale the side of a mountain. Guests are privy to expertly guided tours that include fireside treats, winter camp meals and the history of snowshoeing and the area. Accommodations fit every budget and dining options are numerous whether preferring pizza and steak or elegant multiple course meals.

Stowe Mountain Lodge-Spruce Peak Vermont

Scenic forested valley and rugged mountain peaks are some of the enchanted scenery found here. The area features more than 20 miles of trails on varied terrain that are ripe for snowshoeing adventures. See mountain lakes, old wooden bridges and an abundance of wildlife with the Mt. Mansfield in the background. Guided and self-guided tours are available. First-time snowshoers have the chance to get customized instruction for everything from choosing and donning gear to navigating mountain landscapes. The sport is quite popular here and includes a variety of venues for renting equipment. The resort has hundreds of rooms and offers dining options. However, nearby Stowe village features a number of restaurants and boutique shops.

Yellowstone Village-Gardiner, Montana

Located in Paradise Valley with Beartooth Mountain in the backdrop, the village lies across the street from Yellowstone River and the north entrance to Yellowstone National Park. With miles and miles of trails to enjoy a snowshoe outing, the destination is also popular for wildlife viewing. Antelope, bears and bison along with coyotes, elk and wolves make their homes here. Established trails range in length from 1.5 to 7.5 miles. However, there is plenty of back-country to explore. Attractions in the area include Old Faithful, the massive waterfalls of the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone, and the wildlife in Hayden Valley. Mammoth Hot Springs features unusual calcium and rock deposits and Grand Prismatic Spring is the largest hot spring in the country. Accommodations at the village include fully-furnished and equipped rooms or suites. The facility also offers complimentary continental breakfasts. Guests enjoy a wide range of property amenities that include an indoor heated pool, fireplace lobby and basketball courts.