Snowshoe Trip Ratings

Snowshoe Trip Ratings

The technical and strenuousness rating systems, and descriptions. Note the minimum standards were updated for 2020-21.

Technical Rating SYSTEM

Beginner: Terrain is flat or gentle with minimal avalanche danger. These are generally less than 8 miles round trip and can be easy to moderate strenuous level. Also, typically listed at Sno Parks and groomed roads.

Open to all properly equipped members and non-members of The Mountaineers.

Basic:​ No exposure to steep terrain which would require the use of an ice axe with minimal avalanche danger. No limitation to mileage and elevation gain.

Must be a student or graduate of Basic Snowshoeing, and students must have successfully completed the field trip prior to sign-up.

Pre-requisites: Basic Snowshoeing Course or equivalent.

Intermediate:​ Exposure to terrain that may require the use of an ice axe and/or traveling in avalanche terrain. Use of avalanche tools: beacon, probe, and shovel is recommended.

Must be a student or graduate of Intermediate Snowshoeing. Intermediate Snowshoeing students must have successfully completed both field trips prior to the activity.

Pre-requisites: Intermediate Snowshoeing Course or equivalent.

Strenuousness Rating System

Easy:​ up to 750 ft. elevation gain, and up to 6 miles round trip. Most likely on an established trail or road.

Moderate:​ up to 1,500 ft. elevation gain, and up to 8 miles round trip.

Strenuous:​ up to 2,500 ft. elevation gain, and up to 10 miles round trip.

Very Strenuous: over 2500 ft. elevation gain or over 10 miles round trip.

Click here to see updated club-wide standards.