Let me start by saying that I can’t snowboard and ski, but I do love snowshoeing! Out of the three, it’s probably the easiest for me to do. I compare snowshoeing to hiking, but with weights on your leg. That makes it more of a workout right? Anyway, Elbert and I went on a snowshoeing date to Mount Seymour and here’s my experience :
Why Snowshoeing
I think It’s the perfect way to get outdoors without the learning curve and sore bum. To be fair though, I do want to learn how to ski eventually. I keep watching tv shows and reality tv where they make snowboarding SO EASY.
Makes me feel like a failure seeing that I spent 8 hours on the bunny hill barely standing up. That’s a story for another time.
In case you have no idea what snowshoeing is, it’s walking/hiking in the snow. With special tennis racket shoes. Ps: It’s one of my many cute date ideas!
Why Mount Seymour?
I do research (google) from time to time during the Winter months to compare the different rates and prices to go snowshoeing.
From that research, I find that Mount Seymour is one of the most popular places to go snowshoeing because of the trails. It’s also cheaper than most places- Grouse Mountain. I don’t really want to pay to walk so Seymour’s lower prices help my decision.
It’s a great place for first time snowshoers and veterans alike with lots of different trails to explore. The trails are well marked and you see maps at multiple checkpoints along the paths.
The Drive to Mount Seymour
Mount Seymour is a short 40 minute drive from Downtown Vancouver. It is located on the North Shore which is easily accessible by Highway 1.
It’s a pretty easy, straightforward drive. Right at the base before driving up, there’s a nice complex with stores and food. We had A & W!
There’s also the option to park in the neighbourhood and then get a ticket to take the shuttle up. I did that 2 years ago when we went on a night snowshoe tour for Valentine’s.
Also, don’t forget your snow tires! They are mandatory in that area during the Winter months.
The Hike/Snowshoe Trail on Mount Seymour
Finding parking was a little hard when we went on the weekend. Since Mount Seymour has tubing, skiing, snowboarding and snowshoeing, the parking lot can get quite busy. I would recommend getting there earlier on weekends.
The snowshoe trails are open from 9 am-4:30 pm on weekends and 10 am-4:30 pm on weekdays (check their official website though, it might change).
Elbert has snowshoes so we didn’t have to rent those. That said, it’s fairly inexpensive with rentals and a trail pass for $28 and if you have your own snowshoes the trail pass is only $10.50!
There are over 12 different routes to try with different experiences at each one. There’s a variety of scenic views on the trails with lakes, trees etc, as beautiful as my hike to Joffre last summer. You can check out my vlog above to see the views and our hike!
What to Wear and Bring on the Trail
Proper, waterproof, gripped shoes
When I first put the snowshoes on I had a bit of trouble tightening them up.
Pro tip: Point your foot downward into the strap so you get your boots as secure as possible. I would recommend snow boots or hiking boots for your snowshoes. It’s doable with runners but boots will keep your toes dry and warm.
Walking with snowshoes takes some getting used to. It feels bulky and you kind of have to lift your feet off the ground a little more than usual. Prepare to exert a little more energy walking. Also if you catch your snowshoe into the snow, or someone’s snowshoe- you WILL fall.
Heading downhill in snowshoes are also a learning curve. I penguin walk down mostly, but again, check out my vlog if you want the full story.
Gloves, Ear Muffs, Heat Pads
On the drive up, I didn’t think it would be THAT cold. But it was THAT cold, plus colder.
Bring your gloves, ear muffs, toques, anything to stay warm.
Snacks and Water
This is a given with ANY hike. You never know what might happen so play on the side of caution. Also this way, you don’t need to worry about being hungry and thirsty.
For some reason, some people think you don’t get thirsty if you hike in the cold. This baffles me. You do get thirsty.
The Views on Mount Seymour
It’s a complete winter wonderland once you get on the trails! Despite it being busy, it still felt so quiet and serene. The trees and snow just made it feel like you were so far away from the city. It was a nice break from the hustle and bustle of Vancouver activities.
We didn’t go all the way up, but instead just did a big loop!
That said, I hear that once you reach the top, you get a gorgeous view of a winter Vancouver. You overlook the North Shore and the water. It feels like you can see miles and miles of the city.
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All in all, snowshoeing is one of my favourite winter activities in Vancouver. It’s a great way to get outside and enjoy views you can’t get anywhere else. Hope you enjoyed the post, and video! If you’re interested in another hiking post, check out my experience hiking Joffre Lakes in the Summer
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Till next time,
xoxo Sam
