Photo: Netzer Johannes, CC BY, Adobe Stock

The Difficulty Levels in Snowshoeing

Snowshoeing is a great option for anyone who wants to enjoy winter activities but doesn't ski. Safety comes first when snowshoeing, so it's important to research your route and check the current avalanche forecast.

Difficulty Levels in Snowshoeing

Snowshoeing difficulty, rated by the SAC scale. For routes above WT1, always carry full avalanche gear (transceiver, shovel, probe, and first aid kit). Note that these ratings assume good conditions. Deep powder, wet snow, poor visibility, or ice can significantly increase difficulty.

WT1

Easy snowshoe hike - flat or not very steep. No danger of avalanches or falling. Steepness below 25°.

WT2

Moderate snowshoe hike - not very steep, there may be steep slopes in the vicinity. Basic knowledge of assessing the avalanche situation is required. Steepness below 25°.

WT3

Difficult snowshoe hike - moderately steep with a low risk of slipping. Gentle runout. Basic knowledge of assessing the avalanche situation is required. Steepness up to 30°, short steeper sections possible.

WT4

Snowshoe mountaineering - Moderately steep, rocky terrain or glaciers with few crevasses. Risk of slipping with risk of injury, low risk of falling. Good knowledge of assessing the avalanche situation, elementary mountaineering knowledge and good walking technique required. Steepness up to 30°, short steeper sections possible.

WT5

Difficult snowshoe mountaineering - Steep terrain, possibly with rock scrambling, slope traverses or glaciers. Danger of falling or falling in crevasses. Good knowledge of assessing the avalanche situation, good mountaineering skills and safe walking technique required. Steepness up to 35°, short steeper sections possible.

WT6

Very difficult snowshoe mountaineering - Very steep terrain, possibly with rock steps, slope traverses or crevasse-rich glaciers. Risk of falling or falling in crevasses. Good knowledge of assessing the avalanche situation and very good mountaineering skills as well as safe walking technique on rock, ice and snow are required. Steepness from 35°.