What’s the difference between snowshoeing and hiking?

Snowshoeing and hiking differ primarily in the terrain and equipment used. Hiking is typically done on dirt or cleared trails, often involving uneven surfaces, and doesn’t require special gear other than good shoes. Snowshoeing is done on snowy terrain, where specialized footwear (snowshoes) is used. Snowshoes help distribute your weight over a larger surface area, preventing you from sinking into deep snow. Snowshoeing allows you to access trails and areas that would otherwise be difficult to hike in winter, making it a popular winter activity for those seeking to explore snowy landscapes.

What clothing should I wear for snowshoeing in winter?

For snowshoeing, dress in layers for warmth and flexibility. Start with a moisture-wicking base layer to keep sweat off your skin. Add an insulating mid-layer like fleece or down for warmth, and finish with a waterproof, windproof outer layer. Wear waterproof, insulated boots to keep your feet warm and dry, and snow pants to prevent snow from getting in. Don’t forget a warm hat, gloves, and a neck gaiter to protect your extremities.

Snowshoeing

Your Guide to Reno Tahoe Snowshoeing Trails

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Reno Tahoe is home to some of the most inspiring views in the west, so don't let the cold weather keep you indoors. Snowshoeing is an accessible winter activity to take in the beauty of the season.

Snowshoeing Trails in Reno and Lake Tahoe

You can follow an established trail, or opt to forge your own trail through the powder (which WILL give you a solid workout!). Here are a few areas near Reno and Tahoe where you can extend your hiking season into the winter.

Chickadee Ridge

A snowshoe adventure to Chickadee Ridge offers sweeping, scenic views of Desolation Wilderness and Lake Tahoe. This hike is dog-friendly and thanks to the easy access and modest terrain it is a snowshoe hike nearly everyone can enjoy. You can access this trail on the south side of Mount Rose Highway (Hwy 431) from Tahoe Meadows. Make sure you pack some birdseed and listen for the chirps of resident chickadees... if you're lucky they will snag some seeds from your palm and give you a dreamy photo op!

Mount Rose Trail

You can often find patches of snow along the Mount Rose Trail well into the summer months, so you know this hike near Incline Village was meant to be experienced with snowshoes! Conquer this trail and enjoy waterfall scenery and great views of Lake Tahoe and the Sierra Nevada mountains.

Galena Creek

Located in south Reno is the Bitterbrush Trail in Galena Creek Regional Park. Bitterbrush Trail is a largely flat, moderate hike perfect for snowshoeing. a stroll along Galena Creek is beautiful in the summer, but when cloaked in snow, the wintry scenery is even more amazing.

Spooner Lake

Part of the Lake Tahoe Nevada State Park system, Spooner Lake offers miles of mellow trails that are perfect for any level of snowshoeing ability. From the park, you can hike around Spooner Lake, or access sections of the Tahoe Rim Trail as well as Marlette Lake and Red House trails.

Tahoe Rim Trail

You can enjoy a leisurely snowshoe or a more difficult passage along sections of the Tahoe Rim Trail, which features impressive scenery. The Tahoe Rim Trail has plenty of sections for all abilities, and provides some of the most stunning views of Reno Tahoe.

Snowshoeing in Lake Tahoe Area at Ski Resorts

Palisades Tahoe

Enjoy the beautiful meadow or head to the backcountry of Palisades Tahoe for a great snowshoe hike. The Resort at Squaw Creek offers boot and snowshoe rentals (for adults and kids), as well as guided snowshoe tours and winter packages and specials.

Northstar California Resort

Snowshoeing at Northstar California Resort is just one of many activities you can enjoy at the resort in the winter, including Tahoe snowboarding and skiing. Northstar offers more than 35 kilometers of carefully groomed scenic trails, snowshoe rentals and lessons, day and night snowshoe tours, and access to use the Village Express Chairlift to get directly from the Village to the trail system.

Kirkwood

Kirkwood Cross Country has 50 kilometers of open track for snowshoeing that accommodates all skill levels while offering spectacular scenery and exciting terrain. The trails feature interpretive signs to provide guidance, three interconnected trail systems, snowshoe tours, and one of the best things about Kirkwood's Cross Country Snowshoe Center is that dogs are allowed. Day tickets and season passes are available.

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Guided Snowshoe Tours and Rentals

New to snowshoeing? For snowshoe rentals, repairs and guided snowshoeing adventures to help you explore some of the best backcountry in Reno and Lake Tahoe on snowshoes, here are a few local resources.

Sierra Adventures - Based in Reno, their tours include shuttle service, snowshoeing equipment, food and any permits that may be required.
Tahoe Adventure Company - They offer a variety of unique snowshoe tours, including full moon snowshoe tours, sunset tours and stargazing tours.
Tahoe Snowshoe Tours - With various tours for all abilities, including daytime, sunset and full moon snowshoe tours, they also offer beautiful photos of your experience.
Tahoe Dave's - This locally-owned ski, board and snowshoe shop can set you up with a snowshoe rental package so you can explore local trails on your own. And their six Lake Tahoe locations make it a convenient option.

Make sure to tag #RenoTahoe in all of your winter adventures!