Snowshoeing
Thompson-Shuswap, British Columbia, Canada

Snowshoeing... Throughout the backcountry hills and along the lower slopes of the snow mountains in almost every community in the Thompson Shuswap area are a series of showshoeing trails to select from. Some snowshoe trails are, simply put, hiking trails covered in snow while others are trails, often, shared with xc skiers..

The selection of snowwhoe trails in each area varies, some are groomed and some are not. In most cases there are novice, intermediate and expert trails in each region. Each trail is, usually, well marked and part of a network of loop trails.

The backcountry snowshoeing routes provide a rugged experience exploring wilderness lakes and snowcapped mountains. Some routes can be, as simple as following the gravel backcountry roads covered in powder snow. When snowshoeing in the backcountry it is important to have a good trip plan, gps and proper equipment and clothing. Always snowshoe in groups.

Near the community of Kamloops, BC some of the snowshoe routes to remember include the Harper Mountain Ski Area, Batchelor Lake, Lake Shore Loop, Stake Lake and the Lac Le Jeune Routes. Also near Kamloops is the Sun Peaks Ski Resort where there are snowshoe lessons and equipment rentals plus lodging if needed.

When near the community of Merritt, BC the snowshoe trail system to explore would be the Kane Valley Trails. Right behind the community of Logan Lake, BC is a network of loop trails best enjoyed during the winter time snowshoeing. In and around the Shuswap Lake area are the Larch Hills, Aylmer Lake, Hyas Shaw, Mount Morrisey and the White Lake snowshoe routes.