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a flat device resembling a racket, which is attached to the sole of a boot and used for walking on snow.
The tendrils of winter are slowly reaching their way south from the northernmost areas of the country. With the cold weather, comes snow (three cheers for winter driving) but, with that snow, comes a multitude of winter activities. One of our favorites at the shop, besides split boarding of course, is snowshoeing. Nothing better then making fresh tracks while out for some wintery exploration, while sightseeing, trail walking, nature exploration, backcountry adventures, winter camping, collecting maple syrup etc. the uses for snowshoes are endless.
Below you’ll find some great locations on Where to Snowshoe in and around Edmonton. Check out the shops collections of snowshoes and accessories here.
If you need some ideas for next paddling season, check out Where to Kayak in the Edmonton Area.
"walking in a winter wonderland"
Located off of highway 16 about 35 km east of Edmonton.Elk Island has over 50km of trails and have a variety of difficulty levels available for everybody young and old, fit and not so fit. I would recommend checking out the Tawayik Lake Trail for beginners or the Wood Bison Trail for those wanting something more difficult. Just remember to snowshoe beside the cross-country ski tracks, not on them Check this link for more information. Keep your eyes open you may spiot a buffalo frolicking in the park. Trail reports can be found here as well.
Located at 52535 Range Road 212 in Ardrossan, AB. Its about a 35 minute drive east from downtown Edmonton. They have over 12km of trails to explore from super easy beginner trails to more advanced trails. Don’t forget the camera! Remember to leave fido at home though, no dogs allowed. For more information you can check out there website here. Here’s a link to their trail map as well.
Manager Brian and company havin a good time in the woods
The Edmonton River Valley Park and Trail System.
The Edmonton river valley has a myriad of parks and trails available for multiple uses, snowshoeing being one of them. The Rundle park Riverside trail and Voyageur park River Valley trail in Devon are a couple of those gems.
Parks like Borden Park, Capilano Park, Coronation Park, Emily Murphy Park, Gold Bar Park, Hermitage Park to name a few, allow snowshoeing. Other parks throughout the city may as well.
Here’s a link to a trail maps and more river valley and park information.
Located a short drive east of Edmonton Miquelon Lake Provincial Park has over 15km of trails to explore ranging in length from just under kilometer to over 4 kilometers. Just remember to stay off the groomed cross-country ski tracks. There are even some trails designated as snowshoe free. Lots of wildlife in the area, it is a great escape close to home. Check out their website for more information and their trail info here.
Conservation Properties.
Both the Alberta Conservation Association and Ducks Unlimited Canada along with other conservations groups, have numerous properties throughout the greater Edmonton region and all of Alberta that are accessible year-round for a myriad of activities. Favored among bird watchers and hunters. Most locations do have water features so be cautious, as well as limited signage, limited parking, and no trails. But if you’re looking for new off trail areas to explore these may be it. Most locations have access conditions and a lot allow hunting and some fishing. Its best to check before you head out. You can find all the information and access conditions you may need on both and more in the Alberta Discovery Guide. Its available online here.
The things you see while snowshoeing. Andy was havin' a hoot!!
so now we know where to Snowshoe in and around Edmonton, its time to get out and explore. These areas are a few gems I’ve explored in both winter and summer. There’s lots more options out there. Both provincial and national parks, along with provincial and district natural areas, trail systems, and campgrounds. Snowshoeing is a good time, but remember to dress appropriately for the weather, stay hydrated, and always snowshoe with a buddy. Thin ice may be present on water bodies during our winter season. Assess ice thickness and never go onto ice alone. Check this link from the Red Cross on ice safety
Cheers
Andy, Manager, AQOutdoors, Edmonton.
Where to Snowshoe in and around Edmonton
If you're still interested in more, check out this Snowshoe Guide Book:
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For summer ideas, check out Where to Kayak in the Edmonton Area.
More things Andy sees in the woods, on snowshoes.
