Read in this issue:
:: Snowshoe your way to
    maximum fitness
:: Grand Canyon adventure '07
:: Next adventures: Snowshoe       Hollyburn and Elfin Lakes
:: Next Body Ball Workshops
:: Join Gaia Club

"... some incredibly strong bonds were made with the
other women who experienced the same hardships and challenges and that we all contributed our own strengths
in various ways to help
each other out..."
-K.T.

"... and the Canyon was
such an awesome place! "
-Mary (2002)

"Thank you, thank you
for an event of a life time.
When do we go again??
The question is are you
or is the Canyon ready
for us again".
-Joy ('05)


"My greatest adventure ever.
Thank you!"
-Toni (2004)

Snowshoe Your Way to Maximum Fitness

Looking for an efficient, fun, easy to learn winter aerobic activity that delivers maximum fitness?  Snow shoeing is it! If you can walk, you can snowshoe. The new snowshoes are light, narrow and grip better than ever to let you discover the adventure of winter hiking. Snow shoeing is fun! It offers low-impact, aerobic exercise and allows you to get off trails and into the mountains.

What types of snowshoes are there?
There are “all round” snowshoes with easy to adjust systems, backcountry models with highly durable materials and there are racing/running lightweight snowshoes. Before you buy your shoes, think about what you will be using them for. Here are some tips:

• A running snowshoe may support up 200 pounds and weigh only 3 pounds, while a mountaineering snowshoe can support up to 300 pounds and weigh over 5 pounds.
• The size of the shoe is another important factor: the smaller the shoe the more
  maneuverable they are, the larger the shoe the more weight they can support.
• The type of snow can also affect your choice: you will need larger snowshoes with
  a bigger “float” on the West Coast (wet, compressed snow).

What do I wear on my feet to snowshoe?
We recommend leather hiking boots, wool or synthetic socks and gaiters to keep the snow out of your boots and keep your feet dry. You may elect to buy mountaineering boots made out of waterproof materials like Gore-Tex and polypropylene, lined with Thinsulate or wicking materials. They can provide traction, support, warmth and protection from moisture that no backpacking boot can provide. 

What must I know about before I snowshoe?
If you're starting out, practice putting the snowshoes on and off your boots in the comfort of your yard or home. Be sure to strap your boot onto the snowshoe binding as snug as possible. Anyone that ventures into the backcountry should be familiar with avalanche safety basics and winter survival.

What is the best way to descend a steep trail?
Heel cleats are the key to an easy descent. Keep your knees slightly bent, lean back and keep your weight on the heel cleats to maintain control. Poles can also help. If the snow is deep and the slope is steep you might want to play at glissading. Take long, gliding strides - sort of a downhill lope - and keep the snowshoe toes up out of the snow. You will find this exhilarating.

How can I ensure I stay warm and dry?
Wear layers that can be adjusted to your activity level and the weather: try a synthetic underwear layer as your base, warm layer such as polyester fleece for the mid-layer and a waterproof, breathable shell jacket and pants to top it off. Keep your head and hands covered and always carry extra layers for warmth in your pack. Most people underestimate the heat they will generate while snowshoeing around the woods. 

Where do I go to snowshoe?
There are great trails available to try at Cypress, Grouse and Seymour mountains. Winter snowshoe hiking requires careful planning and experience. Never go alone; always have at least one snowshoe partner. And weather patterns can be unpredictable, especially in mountain areas, so you'll need to carry some extras such as socks, a warm layer, flashlight and matches.

Join us on Hollyburn or Elfin Lakes snowshoe adventures and love your life!
> Scoll down for upcoming Snowshoeing adventures.

Grand Canyon Adventure - June 2007

Coming up local adventures:

Snowshoe Hollyburn

Moderate, Winter Hiking with Snowshoes


Saturday, February 10

Full day, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM

$85 plus GST [$75 + GST GAIA Club]; includes transportation, guide, healthy lunch. Snowshoe rentals extra.

Hike on wonderful nature trails in Cypress park. It’s a great way to start the winter backcountry season and to savour the history of those who have gone before you on the old Hollyburn trails.

REGISTRATION REQUIRED: Please call or email Gaia.

Snowshoe Elfin Lakes

Moderate to Challenging, Winter Hiking with Snowshoes


12 km, 6 hours, 620 m (2030 ft)

Saturday, March 3

Full day, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM

$85 plus GST [$75 + GST GAIA Alumni]; includes transportation, guide, healthy lunch. Snowshoe rentals extra.

Discover one of winter’s greatest secrets, a fabulous ridge walk with Mount Garibaldi, a glacier spectacle, greeting you. You will fall under the spell - the volcanic landscape, the slow flapping of a bird, a perfectly rounded stone. The treasures to be found are patience and happiness.

REGISTRATION REQUIRED: Please call or email Gaia.