The rising popularity of snowshoeing

Methodology

The Transat Chair in Tourism, Sépaq and several regional and sector-based tourism associations recently conducted a survey on the recreational habits and travel behaviours of cross-country skiers and snowshoers. The following data were taken from a sample of 373 respondents who had used Quebec snowshoeing trails over the course of winter 2011-2012. Of these respondents, 95% lived in the province. In some cases, it is interesting to compare the snowshoer’s profile with that of the cross-country skier.

Enjoying the great outdoors as a couple or with friends

The pastime of snowshoeing primarily attracts individuals aged 45 to 54 (Figure 1), but it is also popular among young women aged 25 to 34 (26%).

Although a quarter of respondents have been snowshoeing for two years or less, nearly a third have engaged in the sport for at least ten years (Figure 2)[ES-C1] . Most participants usually go out three to nine times per year (53%), but nearly one-third (32%) slip on their snowshoes more than 10 or even up to 20 times each winter.

More than half of respondents usually go snowshoeing with their spouse (this is especially true of those aged 45 and up) and 50% go with friends (Figure 3)[ES-C2] . Among young people aged 25 to 34, 63% snowshoe primarily with friends.

The quality of the scenery and the chance to be outside are major draws for these slow moving hikers (Figure 4). Many of them also appreciate the opportunity to explore new regions (50% compared to 37% for cross-country skiers), and the chance to interact with friends and family (47% compared to 35% for cross-country skiers).

Winter walking, ice skating, cross-country skiing and downhill skiing are other winter activities enjoyed by snowshoers. However, one quarter of enthusiasts prefer to devote themselves solely to snowshoeing (Figure 5).

Snowshoers and their most recent excursion

The Quebec City region attracted a high percentage of all snowshoers (29% of respondents had taken its trails), followed by the Eastern Townships (20%) and the Laurentians (18%) (Figure 6).

On their most recent excursion, more than one snowshoer out of four (26%) visited the region for the first time, indicating that participants tend towards repeat visits.

When asked about their most recent snowshoeing excursion, more than half of respondents (56%) stated they were already familiar with the destination. Furthermore, 38% either sought advice from friends and family or consulted the Internet, in equal numbers. They began their research by seeking information about the trails and services offered by the various national parks (62%), then turned to general search engines (Figure 7).

Among snowshoers who surfed the Web, the majority looked for practical information (trail maps, location, services) before seeking out area activities and attractions (Figure 8). Unlike cross-country skiers, snowshoers were more influenced by promotional offers (41%) and the variety of on-site experiences.

Nearly one out of two respondents (47%) chose a destination close to home, travelling only a short distance (less than 40 km) to reach it. However, more than one out of four travelled over 100 km (Figure 9). With an average travel distance of some 73 km to their starting point, snowshoers appear somewhat mobile.

During their most recent excursion, most respondents snowshoed for three hours or less, but 43% did go out for more than three and, in some cases, up to five hours (Figure 10). Like hikers, snowshoers like to take their time and linger on-site, which is conducive to observing nature and sharing experiences with friends and family.

Furthermore, while many respondents opted to snowshoe with just one other person (43%), group outings were also popular. One snowshoer out of three was accompanied by two to four people (34%), while one in seven was in a group of more than five individuals (14%).

How can destinations attract these visitors?

Snowshoers demonstrated an obvious interest in the following criteria:

1. An extensive network of available trails: above all, they are seeking a variety of terrains.
2. Destination discounts or on-site packages: for example, incentives could include post-snowshoeing activities, entrance fees, restaurants or leisure activities in the area. Snowshoers seem to be looking for a comprehensive product.
3. The existence of attractive packages offering access to more than one snowshoeing site: willing to travel to explore other regions, snowshoers seek more flexible packages.
4. A place to change one’s clothes, grab a bite, relax or simply organize one’s excursion in adapted facilities protected from the elements.
5. A variety of accommodations and food services: inns, hotels, B&Bs and other lodgings would be well-advised to take advantage of this and enhance their visibility so as to attract this accessible and impressionable clientele.
6. Interpretation tools available on the trails: such tools are an effective way to retain the clientele and enhance its site experience.

The search for multiple activities

More than two snowshoers out of five (42%) would be willing to engage in additional activities and about the same percentage (40%) would be likely to prolong their visit if they could dine on-site. Also, evening events seem to attract snowshoers (36%) even more than cross-country skiers (27%), as do guided tours (23% compared to 17%).

A growing pastime with a diverse clientele, snowshoeing presents an opportunity for businesses who would like to improve, diversify and complement their existing products. Are you ready to welcome snowshoers this winter?