Snowshoeing checklist
Snow buries the usual trail markers and hides the ground underneath, so navigation and layering both need more thought than the same walk would in summer.
18 items
Makes your own editable copy. No account needed.
The items
- Avalanche forecast checkedOn any mountain or steep terrain — snowshoeing crosses the same ground avalanches do.
- Route planned and shared with someone, with a return time
- Snowshoes fitted to your actual boots before setting off
- Poles, with snow baskets fitted
- Waterproof, insulated boots
- GaitersKeep snow from working its way in over the top of the boot.
- Base layer, insulating mid-layer and a waterproof outer
- Spare gloves×2Wet gloves in the cold stop being useful fast — a dry spare pair is worth the weight.
- Warm hat covering the ears
- Sunglasses or gogglesSnow reflects far more UV than bare ground — snow blindness is a real risk without them.
- Sun creamNeeded in winter as much as summer once snow is reflecting light back at you.
- Map, compass and a route loaded offlineTrail markers and paths disappear under snow — don't rely on being able to see the way.
- Headlamp and spare batteriesWinter daylight runs out faster than the walk sometimes does.
- Hot drink in a flask
- High-energy snacksWalking in snow and cold burns through calories faster than the same distance on a dry trail.
- First aid kit
- Foil emergency blanket
- Phone, charged, kept warm in an inner pocketCold drains batteries fast — keep it close to your body rather than in an outer pocket.
Makes your own editable copy. No account needed.
Questions people ask
- Do I need to check an avalanche forecast for a snowshoe walk?
- Yes, on any route through mountain or steep terrain — snowshoeing crosses the same ground avalanches do. Check the local forecast and pick a route rated for the conditions.
- Why is navigation harder in snow?
- Trail markers, paths and landmarks all get buried or look different covered in snow. A map, compass and a route loaded offline matter more here than on a summer walk.
- Do I really need sunglasses in winter?
- Yes — snow reflects far more UV than bare ground, and snow blindness from a bright, sunny day on snow is a real and painful risk without proper eye protection.