You can use some cross-country skiing techniques in your snowshoeing. On steep hills, the cross-country skiing herringbone technique is useful. Point your toes and snowshoes outward as you climb the hill. On short, moderate slopes you can make climbing easier by leaning into the hill. The toes of your boots stick through the snowshoes for better “grip” on the snow.
If the hill is really steep, you will probably have to traverse, traveling diagonally up the face of the hill. Youll increase the distance you cover by switchbacking, but it will cut down on the steepness of the climb.
As you traverse, edge your snowshoes into the slope to reduce the risk of sliding down the hill. If you do fall and start sliding down a steep slope, lie on your back and lift your snowshoes off of the snow until you slow down. This reduces the chance of catching a tip or tail and twisting an ankle or knee.
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