Snowshoeing

For those who like to run in the summer or for those just looking for a fun family activity, snowshoeing is a great winter pastime. In Sun Valley, you can enjoy snowshoeing on about 25 miles of manicured and marked trails, which are used for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing.

This groomed area is close to the Sun Valley Lodge. Additionally there are miles of trails throughout the Wood River Valley where the more experienced snowshoer can exercise.

If you are an avid hiker during the summer months and miss getting close to nature when the snow falls, you may want to try snowshoeing. This is one way to trek into the backcountry and enjoy the winter wonderland created by the snowfall.

Snowshoes work by distributing the weight of the person over a larger area so that the person's foot does not sink completely into the snow. This allows the winter hiker to float on top of the snow.

In days gone by, fur traders, trappers and others whose life or living depended on their ability to get around in areas of frequent, deep snow used snowshoes. However, today snowshoes are used primarily by hikers and runners who wish to continue their summer activity in the winter.

Local outfitters, sports shops and the offices of the Forest Service can assist you with maps of the appropriate areas to visit on snowshoes. Some dealers also rent snowshoes.