Shadows dance along the untouched snow (Photo: C. Rio)

Snowshoeing in Joestu National Park

Following the Yubiso River

C. Rio   - 1 min read

Rising early on the second-to-last day of 2013 to crisp still air and clear blue skies, I realized it was a perfect day for snowshoeing. The previous week's snowfall had blanketed the entire Yubiso valley with at least a meter of soft white snow. Although still early in the season, some sections of the trail were buried under snow drifts as deep as 2 or 3 meters. Without the aid of snowshoes, movement in this winter landscape would be nearly impossible. However, the proper equipment allows for unending opportunities for exploration. We chose to follow the Yubiso River as it snaked its way up the valley, and were able to get superb views of Tanigawadake.

C. Rio

C. Rio @matthew.shewchuk

Based out of Minakami, where I work as a canyoning guide.  I love hiking and am always looking to the skies for good weather.