Nordic News

By Dawn Green, Vancouver Sun

Enduring the howling winds and waist-deep snow of winter, the first North Americans turned to nature thousands of years ago for inspiration and survival tactics. Observing the snowshoe hare with its oversized feet - bounding effortlessly on top of the snow - the idea for a shoe specifically designed for snow travel was born. Made of white birch or ash wood and weaved with the hides of deer, the snowshoe dramatically altered the lives of these people forever.

For centuries, the snowshoe was a necessity for all those confronting deep snows in winter, enabling them to hunt, trap and travel long distances. When French fur traders settled in what is now Quebec in the early 1600s, they were introduced to snowshoeing by the First Nations people. This allowed them to carry on with their trading throughout the long winter months, and from there-the concept of snow shoeing spread over the Northern Hemisphere.

Today, snowshoeing is generally viewed as a winter recreational activity and a way to get back to nature. The resurgence in its popularity is also acknowledged as a nod to Canada's past. And with acres of trails available, Whistler, B.C. is the ideal destination to experience this fun, healthy and family friendly sport. So strap on your snowshoes - rentals are available at many Whistler Village shops - and explore snowy Whistler, where a myriad of opportunities await.

Embark on a self-guided tour of Lost Lake Park's 10 kilometres of snowshoe trails - where you can relish extraordinary views of Whistler and Blackcomb Mountains as you revel in this unique winter sport.

Or, if a guided tour is more your style - then consider a tour like no other. The Medicine Trail snowshoe tour lets you explore old-growth forest and view the Witching Tree - a 1,000-year-old hollowed cedar tree - while learning about Squamish Lil'wat First Nation history. Other fascinating snowshoe tour options include an Evening Fondue tour and a Callaghan Snowshoe Cookout, where snow, starlight and good food combine to create an unforgettable winter experience.

Another snow haven in the Whistler area is the Callaghan Valley - home of the Whistler Olympic Park (WOP). This is called snow country for a good reason, so get ready for deep snow on your snowshoeing adventure into the backcountry. After a serious snowshoeing session, consider turning your shoes to the Callaghan Country Lodge, Whistler's only full-service remote access wilderness lodge. Here you can savour a well deserved rest by the fire, complete with a steaming mug of warmth in your hands.

Click to www.whistler.com for more info on these and many other snowshoe adventures awaiting you in Whistler.

Find this article at http://www.vancouversun.com/travel/Snowshoeing+foray+into+white+pale+winter/5938519/story.html