How to Start a Snowshoeing Group in Tucson

Snowshoeing is often associated with snowy mountain ranges in the Rockies or the Sierra Nevada—but Tucson, Arizona, nestled in the Sonoran Desert, may seem an unlikely place for winter sports. Yet, every winter, the Santa Catalina Mountains that rise just north of the city receive enough snowfall to transform into a pristine, quiet wonderland. For residents and visitors seeking outdoor adventure beyond hiking and biking, snowshoeing offers a low-impact, meditative, and social way to experience Tucson’s winter landscapes. Starting a snowshoeing group in Tucson isn’t just about organizing walks—it’s about building a community of nature lovers, promoting physical wellness, and unlocking access to underutilized seasonal trails. This guide walks you through every step of launching and sustaining a successful snowshoeing group in Tucson, from identifying the right participants and securing gear to navigating local regulations and fostering long-term engagement.

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Assess Local Snow Conditions and Timing

Before you begin recruiting members or planning events, understand Tucson’s unique snow patterns. Snowfall in the Tucson area is not consistent year to year, but the higher elevations of the Santa Catalina Mountains—especially around Mount Lemmon and the Summerhaven area—typically receive measurable snow between December and February. Snow can linger into March at elevations above 7,000 feet. Monitor resources like the National Weather Service, Mount Lemmon Ski Valley’s snow report, and local hiking forums to track real-time conditions. Your group’s schedule should be flexible and weather-dependent. Plan for weekly check-ins via email or a group messaging app to confirm whether conditions are viable for the upcoming weekend.

Step 2: Define Your Group’s Purpose and Audience

Clarify the mission of your group. Are you aiming to attract beginners looking for a gentle introduction to winter sports? Are you targeting experienced hikers seeking new seasonal challenges? Or are you building a social community centered around shared outdoor experiences? Your purpose will shape your outreach strategy. For example, if your focus is on accessibility, emphasize low-intensity routes and beginner-friendly instruction. If you want to attract fitness enthusiasts, highlight elevation gain and calorie burn. Consider creating a simple mission statement: “Our Tucson Snowshoeing Group connects locals to winter trails in the Santa Catalinas through safe, inclusive, and educational group outings.”

Step 3: Choose Your First Trail

Not all trails in the Catalinas are suitable for snowshoeing. Start with well-maintained, low-to-moderate difficulty trails that are frequently used in winter. Recommended beginner routes include:

• Summerhaven Trail (0.8 miles, round trip): A flat, paved path from the ski resort parking area to the village of Summerhaven. Ideal for first-timers.
• Marshall Gulch Trail (1.5 miles round trip): A gentle, forested path with minimal elevation gain, offering beautiful snow-dusted pine trees.
• Smith Canyon Trail (2 miles round trip): Slightly more rugged but still manageable for beginners, with scenic views of the canyon.

Avoid steep, exposed, or unmarked trails until your group gains experience. Always scout the trail yourself before the first group outing. Check for ice patches, downed branches, and trail closures. The Coronado National Forest website and AllTrails app are valuable for up-to-date trail conditions.

Step 4: Gather Essential Gear and Secure Equipment

Snowshoeing requires minimal gear, but it’s critical to ensure everyone has access to the right equipment. You’ll need:

• Snowshoes: Choose models based on participant weight and terrain. For beginners, lightweight aluminum or composite snowshoes with heel lifts are ideal.
• Winter boots: Waterproof, insulated hiking boots with good ankle support.
• Layered clothing: Moisture-wicking base layer, insulating mid-layer, and windproof outer shell.
• Handheld trekking poles: Help with balance on slippery or uneven terrain.
• Backpack essentials: Water, high-energy snacks, first-aid kit, headlamp, extra gloves, and emergency blanket.

Most participants won’t own snowshoes. To make your group accessible, partner with local outdoor retailers like REI Tucson or The Adventure Company to arrange a gear rental program. Offer a group discount or host a gear swap event where members can lend or borrow equipment. You can also apply for small community grants through the City of Tucson Parks and Recreation Department to purchase a few pairs of snowshoes for group use.

Step 5: Recruit Your First Members

Start small. Aim for 5–10 committed individuals for your inaugural outing. Use these platforms to reach potential members:

• Facebook Groups: Join and post in Tucson Hikers, Arizona Outdoor Enthusiasts, and Tucson Winter Sports.
• Meetup.com: Create a free group titled “Tucson Snowshoeing Group” and post your first event with clear details: date, trail, difficulty, gear requirements, and contact info.
• Local bulletin boards: Post flyers at libraries, coffee shops (like Java City or The Coffee Works), and community centers in North Tucson and Catalina Foothills.
• University and college networks: Reach out to the University of Arizona’s Outdoor Recreation Center or student environmental clubs.

In your recruitment message, emphasize safety, inclusivity, and fun. Use phrases like “No experience needed,” “All fitness levels welcome,” and “Bring a friend!” Include a photo of snow-covered Catalinas to spark interest.

Step 6: Plan Your First Outing

Once you have a core group, plan your first event with precision:

• Date and time: Choose a Saturday morning. Start at 9:00 AM to allow for trail thawing and avoid afternoon wind.
• Meeting point: Use the Mount Lemmon Ski Valley parking lot. It has restrooms, ample space, and is clearly marked.
• Agenda:
  • 9:00–9:30 AM: Welcome, introductions, gear check
  • 9:30–10:00 AM: Safety briefing and snowshoe demonstration
  • 10:00 AM–12:00 PM: Guided snowshoe walk
  • 12:00–12:30 PM: Hot drinks and snacks, group photo, feedback collection

• Leadership: Assign one person as the lead guide and another as the sweep (last person in the group) to ensure no one is left behind.

Bring a printed map and a compass—even if using GPS, technology can fail in cold weather. Always leave a trip plan with a friend or family member who is not attending.

Step 7: Establish Communication Channels

Consistent communication is key to retention. Create a dedicated email address (e.g., tucsonsnowshoegroup@gmail.com) and a WhatsApp or Telegram group for real-time updates. Use Google Calendar to schedule monthly events and send automated reminders. Consider a simple website or landing page using free tools like Carrd or WordPress to showcase your group’s mission, upcoming events, and FAQs. Include a sign-up form for new members to collect names, emergency contacts, and experience levels.

Step 8: Build a Leadership Structure

As your group grows, avoid burnout by distributing responsibilities. Form a small core team with roles such as:

• Event Coordinator: Plans outings, books venues, and manages weather cancellations.
• Equipment Manager: Tracks borrowed gear, schedules maintenance, and organizes cleanings.
• Communications Lead: Manages social media, newsletters, and flyers.
• Safety Officer: Ensures all members are briefed on cold-weather risks and carries a first-aid kit on every outing.

Rotate roles quarterly to keep participation fresh and prevent fatigue. Encourage members to lead their own outings after attending three events.

Step 9: Partner with Local Organizations

Collaborations amplify your reach and credibility. Reach out to:

• Coronado National Forest: Ask about volunteer trail maintenance opportunities or educational permits for group outings.
• Tucson Mountain Park and Saguaro National Park: While these areas receive less snow, they may offer winter programming or event space.
• Local outdoor retailers: Offer to host a “Snowshoe 101” demo day in exchange for discounted gear or gift cards.
• Nonprofits like the Arizona Trail Association: They may help promote your group or provide educational materials.

These partnerships can lead to sponsored events, free training sessions, or even funding for group equipment.

Step 10: Document and Share Your Experiences

People are drawn to stories. After each outing, post a short recap on social media with photos, a trail summary, and quotes from participants. Encourage members to share their own photos using a unique hashtag like

TucsonSnowshoeSquad. Consider creating a monthly newsletter that includes:

• Trail of the Month
• Member spotlight
• Weather forecast and upcoming event
• Tip of the month (e.g., “How to prevent frostnip on your toes”)

These efforts build community identity and attract new members organically.

Best Practices

1. Prioritize Safety Over Schedule

Never proceed with an outing if conditions are unsafe. Ice, whiteouts, or high winds can turn a fun hike into a rescue scenario. Always have a cancellation protocol. If snowfall is light or trail conditions are marginal, offer a “snowshoe demo” at a local park instead—like Reid Park or Sabino Canyon’s higher elevations—where snow may linger on shaded trails.

2. Practice Leave No Trace Principles

As stewards of the desert-wilderness interface, your group must model responsible behavior. Teach members to:

• Stay on designated trails to protect fragile alpine vegetation.
• Pack out all trash, including food wrappers and tissue.
• Avoid feeding wildlife, even if they appear tame.
• Keep noise levels low to preserve the quiet of winter forests.

Include a brief LNT reminder in every pre-outing email.

3. Foster Inclusivity

Make your group welcoming to all ages, abilities, and backgrounds. Offer alternative routes for slower walkers. Be mindful of language—avoid phrases like “if you can’t keep up, you’re not cut out for this.” Instead, say: “We walk at a pace where everyone can enjoy the views and conversation.” Consider hosting a “Family Snowshoe Day” during winter break to attract parents with children.

4. Train Your Leaders

Even experienced hikers may not know how to teach snowshoeing. Take a free online course from the American Hiking Society or the National Outdoor Leadership School (NOLS) on winter safety and group leadership. Learn basic first aid—especially for hypothermia and frostbite—and consider becoming certified through a local Red Cross chapter.

5. Manage Expectations

Many Tucson residents have never seen snow. Set realistic expectations: “Snow here is not like Colorado—it’s often patchy, and trails may be muddy underneath. But the quiet, the sparkle, and the sense of discovery are unmatched.”

6. Keep It Free and Voluntary

While you can accept voluntary donations for gear purchases or group supplies, avoid charging membership fees. This keeps your group open and prevents legal liability. If you need funds, apply for small grants from the Tucson Parks and Recreation Department or host a community potluck fundraiser.

7. Celebrate Milestones

Recognize achievements: “First 100 miles logged by a member,” “Most consistent attendee,” “Newest member from out of state.” Send handwritten thank-you notes or small tokens like custom snowshoe-shaped keychains. These gestures deepen loyalty and encourage word-of-mouth growth.

Tools and Resources

Essential Apps and Websites

• AllTrails: Filter trails by snow conditions, user reviews, and difficulty. Download offline maps.
• Weather.gov – Tucson: Official National Weather Service forecasts for the Catalinas.
• Mount Lemmon Ski Valley Snow Report: Daily updates on snow depth and road conditions.
• Coronado National Forest: Official site for trail closures, permits, and regulations.
• Google Maps: Use satellite view to scout trailheads and parking areas.

Recommended Gear

For beginners, consider these trusted brands:

• Snowshoes: MSR Evo (lightweight), Tubbs Flex (comfortable for wide feet), Atlas 10 Series (durable for varied terrain)
• Boots: Salomon Quest 4D GTX, Merrell Moab 2 Mid Waterproof
• Poles: Black Diamond Trail Ergo Cork, Cascade Mountain Tech Carbon Fiber
• Layering: Smartwool base layers, Patagonia Nano Puff jacket, Columbia Omni-Heat outer shell

Free Educational Resources

• REI Co-op’s Snowshoeing 101 Guide: https://www.rei.com/learn/expert-advice/snowshoeing.html
• National Park Service – Winter Recreation: https://www.nps.gov/subjects/winterrecreation/index.htm
• YouTube Channels: “The Adventure Junkies” and “Snowshoeing with Sarah” offer short, practical tutorials.

Local Tucson Resources

• REI Tucson: Hosts free outdoor skills workshops and has a gear rental program.
• University of Arizona Outdoor Recreation Center: Offers equipment checkout for students and staff.
• Tucson Mountain Park Visitor Center: Provides maps and local trail advice.
• Arizona Snowshoe Association: Though based in Flagstaff, they offer regional resources and event calendars.

Real Examples

Example 1: The Catalina Snow Sisters

In 2021, three Tucson women—Linda, Maria, and Tanya—started a small snowshoe group after realizing how few women participated in winter outdoor activities. They began with three friends and posted on Facebook: “Let’s go play in the snow. No experience? No problem.” Within two months, they had 40 members. They partnered with REI for gear demos and hosted “Coffee & Snowshoes” events where members met at a café in Catalina Foothills before heading up the mountain. Their group now has a waiting list and hosts monthly potlucks. “It’s not about the snow,” says Linda. “It’s about showing up for each other when the world is quiet.”

Example 2: Tucson High School Winter Outdoor Club

A biology teacher at Catalina Foothills High School turned her students’ interest in desert ecology into a winter snowshoeing initiative. She partnered with the Coronado National Forest to lead monthly field trips where students tracked animal prints in the snow, collected temperature data, and documented plant adaptations. The project earned a state environmental education grant and was featured in the Arizona Daily Star. Now, it’s a permanent part of the school’s curriculum.

Example 3: The Snowshoeing Seniors Circle

A retired nurse in North Tucson noticed that many older adults in her community were missing out on winter activities due to mobility concerns. She organized weekly snowshoe outings for seniors using adaptive snowshoes designed for stability. With the help of a local senior center, she arranged transportation and provided warm beverages at the trailhead. “We walk slowly,” she says. “But we see the stars clearer, hear the wind better, and feel more alive than we have in years.”

FAQs

Can you really snowshoe in Tucson?

Yes. While Tucson is known for its desert climate, the Santa Catalina Mountains rise to over 9,000 feet. Snow falls regularly in the winter months, especially above 7,000 feet. Trails around Mount Lemmon and Summerhaven are regularly snowshoed by locals and visitors alike.

Do I need to be in great shape to snowshoe?

No. Snowshoeing is low-impact and can be done at any pace. Walking on snow requires more effort than on pavement, but you can adjust your speed and distance. Many beginners start with 1–2 mile loops.

Where can I rent snowshoes in Tucson?

REI Tucson offers snowshoe rentals for $15–$20 per day. The Adventure Company and local outfitters like Desert Sports also rent gear. Some group leaders keep a small inventory for members to borrow.

Is it safe to snowshoe alone in Tucson?

While possible, it’s not recommended—especially for beginners. Trails can be isolated, and weather changes quickly. Always go with a group or at least one other person. Let someone know your route and expected return time.

What should I wear for snowshoeing in Tucson?

Layering is key. Start with moisture-wicking underwear, add a fleece or down mid-layer, and top it with a windproof jacket. Wear waterproof hiking boots. Bring extra socks, gloves, and a hat. Even in winter, the sun is strong—use sunscreen and sunglasses.

Are there any permits required to snowshoe in Tucson?

No permits are needed for recreational snowshoeing on Coronado National Forest trails. However, if you plan to host a group of 10 or more, notify the forest service as a courtesy. Commercial groups require a special use permit.

How do I handle icy patches on the trail?

Use trekking poles for balance. Some snowshoes have built-in crampons for traction. If the trail is particularly icy, consider postponing the outing or switching to a trail with less exposure. Never walk on ice without proper traction devices.

Can kids join snowshoeing groups?

Absolutely. Many families participate. Use child-sized snowshoes and keep routes short and engaging. Bring hot chocolate and snacks to keep energy up. Always supervise children closely near drop-offs or steep areas.

What if there’s no snow?

That’s why flexibility matters. If snow is light, consider “winter hiking” with microspikes on rocky trails. Or host an indoor event: a movie night showing “The Snow Walker,” a gear demo, or a talk by a local naturalist on desert winter ecology.

How do I know if a trail is open?

Check the Coronado National Forest website or call the Mount Lemmon Ranger District at (520) 749-8600. Trails may close due to snow load, wildlife activity, or maintenance. Always verify before heading out.

Conclusion

Starting a snowshoeing group in Tucson is more than an outdoor activity—it’s a quiet revolution in how we experience our city’s hidden seasons. In a region often defined by heat and desert blooms, winter snow transforms the landscape into something ethereal and forgotten. By forming a group, you’re not just organizing walks; you’re creating spaces for connection, resilience, and awe. The trails may be short, the snow may be fleeting, but the memories made under a canopy of snow-laden pines last far longer.

Begin with one person. Then two. Then ten. Let your group grow organically, guided by curiosity and care. Use the tools, follow the best practices, learn from others, and above all—get outside. Tucson’s mountains wait, dusted in white, ready for those willing to see them in a new light.

Winter doesn’t come often here. But when it does, it’s unforgettable. Be the reason someone in your community discovers it.