Frequently Asked QUESTIONS

Clothing

Dress in layers to stay warm and dry, while allowing for adjustments as your body temperature changes:

• Base Layer (Moisture-Wicking):

  • Long-sleeve thermal top

  • Thermal leggings

• Insulating Layer:

  • Fleece or down jacket

  • Insulated pants or fleece-lined leggings

• Outer Layer (Waterproof & Windproof):

  • Shell jacket

  • Waterproof pants

• Accessories:

  • Warm hat (preferably one that covers your ears)

  • Neck gaiter or scarf

  • Insulated, waterproof gloves or mittens

  • Wool or thermal socks (bring an extra pair)

  • Gaiters (to keep snow out of your boots)

Footwear

• Waterproof, insulated hiking boots or snow boots

Gear

• Backpack (with a waist strap for stability)

• Sunglasses or ski goggles (to protect against glare from the snow)

• Headlamp or flashlight (if there’s a chance you’ll be out after dark)

Essentials

• Water bottle or insulated flask (hydration is crucial even in cold weather)

• Snacks (high-energy options like granola bars, trail mix, or chocolate)

• Sunscreen and lip balm with SPF (snow reflects UV rays)

Optional Items

• Hand and toe warmers

• Camera or smartphone for photos (with a protective case)

• Small thermos with hot tea or coffee

• Avoid cotton clothing, as it retains moisture and can make you cold.

• Ensure all your gear is in good condition before heading out.

By coming prepared with the right equipment, you’ll be ready to fully enjoy the stunning winter scenery and the unique experience of snowshoeing. If you have any questions or need additional recommendations, don’t hesitate to reach out to us!

Snowshoeing is a generally safe activity, especially when proper precautions are taken. It’s a low-impact exercise suitable for most fitness levels and can be enjoyed by individuals, families, and groups. To ensure safety, here are a few key considerations:

• Stay with the group on the Designated Trails: Avoid venturing on your own.

• Can I fall down?

  Snowshoe hiking poles are available with every hike to assist in balance and control. While walking and hiking on uneven or slippery surfaces there is always a chance of falling or slipping. Luckily snow is soft when fresh and can be much more forgiving.

When you join one of our guided snowshoe hikes, you’ll have everything you need for a safe and enjoyable experience. Here’s what we provide:

• New Snowshoes and Poles: High-quality, well-maintained equipment to ensure comfort and ease during your hike.

• Permits: We take care of all necessary permits, so you can focus on the adventure.

• Water Bottles and 1 Snack

• Expert Guide: Your guide is not only knowledgeable about the terrain and local history but also carries medical emergency equipment for your safety and peace of mind.

Let us handle the details while you enjoy the breathtaking beauty of the outdoors!

Dogs are welcome to join us if they stay on a leash, are trained for winter adventures, and are comfortable around people. We follow Leave No Trace principles, so please be prepared to clean up after your pet.

To keep everyone safe during our adventures, we ask all participants to avoid using alcohol.

Backcountry Grit Expeditions requires full credit card or cash/check payment to hold your reservation. If you choose to cancel within 1 day of a scheduled trip, you will be charged the full price. If you cancel within 7-14 days of your trip, we would be happy to reschedule for another date. Cancelations made 2 weeks or more prior to your trip (3 weeks or more for multi-day trips of 5+ people) will receive a full refund. If your guide determines that weather conditions make your scheduled trip a no-go, we will work with you to reschedule, issue a credit, or refund your trip.

For weather and extenuating circumstances: If you reach the trailhead and the guide calls the day off, you will be entitled to a full reschedule. If the trip begins (0-2 hours in), you will be charged for a full day hike, with a credit for the difference of price towards a rescheduled trip. After 2 hours into the trip, full payment is due.

Risk Management

Backcountry Grit Expeditions’ top priority is your safety. Our guides consider many factors, including client fitness and comfort, weather conditions, and route conditions, when making decisions in the mountains. While we manage inherent hazards like inclement weather, avalanches, rock fall, and ice fall, these risks cannot be entirely eliminated. Our guides’ formal training and extensive experience ensure sound decisions for an enjoyable and safe mountain experience. Backcountry Grit Expeditions reserves the right to turn around or change routes without refunds or credits under any conditions.