Authored by Roger Timbrook

Everyone talks about skiing. The more adventurous even get their thrills from heliskiing. But strapping two planks to your feet and hurtling down a hill may not be your idea of a dream winter vacation.

With skiing, what most people don’t talk about how tough it is to learn. Yes, you will spend hours on your butt for the first few days. On top of that, it is usually insanely expensive!

As someone who lives in Switzerland, I actually moved here partly because I love skiing. So, don’t get me wrong. I love it. But in the past few years I have been checking out other winter options and soon fell in love with snowshoeing.

Have you heard about this old-school sport, or ever considered it? Let me tell you why snowshoeing is a great idea for your next winter adventure!

Try Snowshoeing Instead Of Skiing On Your Next Winter Adventure

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Get Away From The Crowds

If you’re the kind of person who’s sick of the lines and crowds that are associated with skiing (or any other popular activity) then snowshoeing might be the perfect alternative.

Although it has become popular in the last few years, snowshoeing is still a great way to get away from the crowds. Here in tiny Switzerland, where people are virtually everywhere, it is still extremely easy to find somewhere to go snowshoeing, and often you will be alone.

All you have to do is go early or venture a little bit further than most. And I am sure that will be the same in any other snow covered country you happen to be visiting.

It’s Like Hiking, But Everything’s White

Love hiking, but don’t know what to do in winter? Keep on hiking. Just with bigger shoes! Snowshoeing is not as popular or well known as hiking, but in reality it is pretty much the same thing.

Depending on where you decide to go, the amount of trails and quality of signage will vary, but in most parts of Switzerland you can always find a few snowshoeing trails.

Basically, there are pink signs (easy to see in the snow) plastered on trees, in the middle of fields and other creative places. All designed to guide you to amazing places with stunning views.

You Can Go Almost Anywhere

A lot of sports we love to do are restricted to specific locations. Take skiing, you generally have to go to a resort. The same with swimming, cross country skiing and many other activities.

The beauty of snowshoeing is that you can go almost anywhere. Why? Because snow is the great equalizer when it comes to terrain. It makes often uneven terrain easy to walk on.

So, if you are good with navigation and direction, you can go almost anywhere. Just be aware that avalanches in steep areas are a big issue – so get the right training and advice.

It’s Super Easy To Learn

Unlike a lot of other sports, snowshoeing does not require much skill. You need to learn how to put them on, and drag your feet instead of taking big steps. That’s about it. And, if you get it wrong, no one will notice. It’s honestly just walking, but on snow.

If skiing scares or intimidates you, or maybe it’s just not your thing, there are always fun alternatives. Imagine you are on the way to a winter holiday with friends or family but with no desire to start skiing – now you can give snowshoeing a go. It might become your next outdoor passion!

BEST SELLING SNOWSHOES WE RECOMMEND: CLICK PHOTO ↓

Enkeeo Light Weight

Chinook Trekker Snowshoes

ALPS Adult All Terrian

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Roger is a little obsessed with travel. He has been to over 40 countries, broken 3 suitcases and owned over 10 backpacks in 12 months. What he doesn’t know about travel, ain’t worth knowing!

You can find him blogging about his experiences at Expert World Travel.

Photo credits: Pinterest image close up of snowshoe by Elizabeth Lord. Snowshoe Herlan Peak of Lake Tahoe by Kee Yip.