Sensational Snowshoeing!

Karen Schaler | Mar 17, 2008 | Comments 0

The real beauty of snowshoeing as a TRAVEL THERAPY is you can practically do it anywhere there’s snow, but snowshoeing at Lake Louise in Alberta, Canada, is one truly breathtaking experience. When you first arrive at Lake Louise the snowy peaks of the Great Divide seem to call out to you to “come and play”. Of course you’ll need some help and since motorized vehicles like snow mobiles aren’t allowed in the park that means you’ll be either hoofing it with skis or snow shoes. If you know what you’re doing you can strap on your own shoes and off you go but your best bet if you really want to see some spectacular scenery is to sign up with a guide. One of the most luxurious places to stay in the area is the world-class Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise, a stunning hotel right on the lake.

The guides at the hotel like to say “if you can walk you can snowshoe” and they do everything they can, right down to providing you with the right snowshoes to make your trip memorable. Your typical trip leaves at 1:30p.m. and takes about three hours so it’s a good idea to bring some bottled water with you and a snack you can eat as you walk. At the half way point your guide will stop and share some hot chocolate and cookies and then it’s off again following trails, zig zagging through the woods.

Fairmont guides are also known for sharing information and history about the forest you’re trekking through and they’ll point out tracks various winter animals have made. When we did the trip we heard a bear was spotted, although quite a distance away, but all we saw were tracks from tiny critters like snow rabbits and Pine Martins (weasels).

Lake Louise is at an elevation of 5,700 feet and on this journey you’ll climb a little bit through the forest but not too much as to cause you any problems with altitude sickness. Some in my group got a little winded but they admitted that was because they probably weren’t in the best shape.

Another great thing about snowshoeing is it’s affordable! For this trip, including the snowshoe rental it’s only $59 for the three hours and $29 for children. You’ll absolutely want to take your camera along and dress in layers in case you work up enough of a sweat that you’ll need to peel off some clothes.

For more unique adventure options in Alberta, don’t miss the last few TRAVEL THERAPY posts about Ice Hiking and Dog Sledding!