The popularity of snowshoeing has exploded in recent years, and once you experience it you'll appreciate why. Gone are the days of those cumbersome wooden snowshoes, the snowshoes of today are small and lightweight making this an activity that all members of the family can enjoy. Rent your own and discover the areas youself, or let a guide show you the snowy mountain forests and the serene beauty of this natural winter playground.

Vancouver, Coast and Mountains' snow-covered landscapes offer some of the best snowshoeing trails in the region, including:

Grouse Mountain - Munday Alpine Snowshoe Park, with over 12 km or terrain and six different groomed trails to choose from.

Mount Seymour - Their chocolate Fondue tour gives weary snowshoers a deserved treat. Over 10 km (6.2 mi) of marked and maintained trails weave throughout a network of lakes rich in wildlife and habitat.

Cypress Mountain – Expansive trail systems with 11 km (6.8 mi) of self-guided trails and daily snowshoe tours ranging from a 4 hour fondue tour to a 2 hour tour of Hollyburn Meadows. Stop in at the historic lodge to warm your toes and fill your tummy after a rewarding snowshoe adventure!

Manning Park – 20.4 kn (12.6 mi) of designated snowshoe trails offer something for all levels and endurance, including short trails with a 0.5 km (0.3 mi) return or long trails with a 6 km (3.7 mi) return. Rent snowshoes and sign up for lessons at the Nordic Centre.

Whistler and Cougar Mountain– Snowshoes are a great way to get into the backcountry and enjoy a true Canadian winter experience. Take a guided tour into stands of old growth forest and learn about British Columbia wilderness. There are 14 km (8.7 mi) of trails for snowshoers of all abilities.

Can you hear those sleigh bells ringing? There are few things more romantic than a sleigh ride through Whistler's magical winter village. Gentle, giant Percheron horses lead the way and comfortable sleighs with padded seats and cozy blankets keep you warm. Or, let winter come alive on an enchanting sleigh ride through Grouse Mountain's snowy paradise. Take friends and family on a memorable journey around the mountaintop through snow-covered forests. This is what memories are made of. Mush! Dogsledding is a truly Canadian adventure through the beautiful backcountry in the Soo Valley near Whistler. Watch or lend a hand as the guides harness energetic Alaskan Huskies. Ride in the dogsled or guide your own  team on a self-guided sled.