Published: Feb 03, 2017

7 Reasons to Snowshoe this Winter

At Swiftwater, we love skiing and biking but sometimes we like to slow things down and winter walk: A.K.A. snowshoe. Snowshoeing is a great activity that allows you to enjoy the winter scenery and relax while you get some exercise. Not convinced that snowshoeing is worth your time? Well, if you live or visit Duluth, Minnesota try one our Saturday morning snowshoe tours. Here are 7 reasons to give it a try.

Easy Learning Curve

If you can walk, you can snowshoe. Just try to keep your tips up as you step forward and you are good. The ease of snowshoeing makes it a great family activity.

Great Exercise

Burn off that holiday weight. Snowshoeing can burn between 300 to 600 calories an hour!

Low Impact on Your Body and the Environment

Akin to walking, snowshoeing is a low impact activity. You are walking on snow and the movements involved avoid hard shocks to your tendons and ligaments.

Snowshoeing is also low impact on the environment since snow buffers the impact on trails, lessening trail erosion. Plus, who needs gas, calories are your fuel.

Fantastic Way to Observe nature

Snowshoeing is great for observing nature and appreciating the scenery. Snowshoeing is a silent sport increasing your chances of seeing wildlife. Also by moving slowly you will be able to see and study winter wildlife tracks.

Our Saturday morning snowshoe tours take place in or near beautiful Jay Cooke St. Park. This 8,800 acre park is home to a diverse array boreal wildlife and incredible views along the St. Louis River.

Relatively inexpensive

Compared to downhill skiing equipment and season passes, snowshoeing is a drop in the bucket. You can rent a pair for a fraction of the cost of a lift ticket. If you buy a pair that’s likely the last associated cost you will have. Try snowshoeing with Swiftwater Adventures to see if it’s your thing.

Action

Snowshoeing doesn’t have to be a slow walk in the snow. With the right kind of shoes, usually those with metal cleats, you can ascend a steep slope. And if the snow is deep enough, throw yourself all sorts of features. Just probe the landing zone first.

Fun

Snowshoeing is fun! It’s fun to go out alone, it’s fun with a friend or as a date activity, and it’s fun to go with a group or as a family outing.

If you would like to give snowshoeing a try we offer snowshoe tours which include the cost of rental in the trip. Just 15 minutes south of Duluth, MN.

Saturday Morning Snowshoe Adventures

Having been a cross country and alpine skier, as well as a fat tire biker too, I like to move fast across the frozen landscape. That being said, I enjoy slowing down from time to time to really digest the beauty of the winter woods, something snowshoes are perfect for. This is what our Saturday morning snowshoe tours are all about.

Discover the winter wonder and beauty of Jay Cooke St. Park and the St. Louis River.  Our 2 hour guided snowshoe tours will explore the high ridgelines, towering pines and other hidden gems along the St. Louis River. We are only 15 minutes from Duluth but will feel hours away from the city.

At Swiftwater Adventures, we cater the trip to your group’s ability and current snow and trail conditions to offer you the safest and most fun trip possible. Our guides are trained adventure naturalists, meaning they have the skills and experience to keep you safe and to offer you a first class nature experience.

Our Snowshoe tours are offered January into March

Price $40/person. Includes:

  • Snowshoes
  • Instruction
  • Snacks and Warm Beverage
  • Guided nature tour with experienced guide
  • Day pass to Jay Cooke St. Park

Meet at: Swiftwater Adventures 121 Vermilion St. in Carlton, MN. Just 15 minutes south of Duluth, MN. From here we will head to nearby Jay Cooke St. Park and let the snowshoe adventure begin.

Sign up today for you snowshoe adventure!

Category(s): Blog Posts