Daily Snowshoe Rentals

Snowshoeing is one of the easiest ways to get into winter hiking—strap on some gear, walk on snow, done. No lift tickets, no lessons, no learning curve that leaves you face-first in a snowbank.

Renting makes even more sense when you're testing the waters or don't want bulky seasonal gear eating up closet space. This guide covers what's included in a rental, how much it costs, where to go near Seattle, and how to pick the right size for your first (or fiftieth) outing.

What's Included in Your Snowshoe Rental

Snowshoe rentals typically run between $25 and $32 per day, depending on where you rent and how long you keep the gear. At Gearhouse, a rental includes snowshoes and trekking poles—the full kit for walking on snow without sinking up to your knees. Our staff fits everything on the spot and shows you how to strap in before you head out.

You might be wondering what exactly you're getting. Here's the breakdown.

Snowshoes

Snowshoes are wide platforms that attach to your regular winter boots. They spread your weight across a larger surface area, which keeps you floating on top of the snow instead of punching through with every step. That floating effect? It's called flotation, and it's the whole point.

On the underside, you'll find metal teeth called crampons. They dig into ice and packed snow, giving you grip on steeper or slicker terrain. Without them, you'd be sliding around like a newborn deer.

Rental snowshoes come in different sizes based on your total weight—body plus backpack—not your shoe size. Bigger snowshoes mean more flotation for heavier loads or deep powder. Smaller ones are easier to maneuver on packed trails.

Trekking Poles

Poles come with the rental for good reason. They keep you balanced on uneven ground, take pressure off your knees on the way down, and help you push uphill when the trail gets steep.

Our rental poles adjust to fit anyone from 5'2" to 6'4". During your fitting, we set them to the right height so you're not hunched over or reaching awkwardly.

Optional Accessories

A few add-ons make the experience more comfortable, especially on longer outings:

• Gaiters: Waterproof sleeves that wrap around your lower legs and boot tops, keeping snow from sneaking inside
• Carrying bags: For easy transport to and from the trailhead
• Trekking Poles: For balance while walking through the snow

Snowshoe Rental Pricing and Packages

How much you pay depends on how long you're heading out. Here's what the structure typically looks like:

Rental TypeWhat You GetDaily RentalSnowshoes + poles for 24 hoursWeekend RentalFriday pickup through Monday returnMulti-Day RentalLower per-day rate for 3+ daysMember RateDiscounted pricing across all rental periods

Daily Rental Rates

A daily rental covers 24 hours. Pick up Saturday morning, return Sunday morning. This works well for day trips to Snoqualmie or a quick loop at a local sno-park.

View current pricing and availability →

Weekend and Multi-Day Rentals

Planning something longer? Multi-day rentals bring down the per-day cost. Weekend rentals typically run Friday through Monday, so you're not racing back Sunday night.

Member Discounts on Snowshoe Rentals

Gearhouse members at the Trail Club and Summit Club tiers get solid discounts on all gear rentals. If you're planning to get out more than a couple times this season, membership often pays for itself pretty quickly.

See membership options →

Snowshoe Rental Near Me in Seattle

Finding gear close to home makes the difference between actually getting outside and letting another weekend slip away. When the trailhead is an hour out, you don't want to spend another hour hunting down equipment.

Gearhouse Capitol Hill Location

Our shop sits in Capitol Hill, a short walk from the light rail station. It doubles as a coffee shop, so you can grab a latte while we fit your gear. The space is warm, the staff knows the local trails, and there's no rush. Ask questions, look at maps, get recommendations for where to stop for breakfast on the way.

Pickup and Dropoff Hours

We offer flexible windows for both pickup and dropoff. Heading out early to catch first light? We can arrange morning pickups. Getting back late Sunday? Evening returns work too. The rental fits around your trip, not the other way around.

How to Reserve Snowshoeing Equipment Rental

Booking takes about two minutes:

1. Select your rental dates on our website
2. Choose your gear (snowshoe kit, any add-ons)
3. Complete checkout
4. Pick up at our Capitol Hill location

Looking for something specific or have questions about sizing? Text us at 206-466-0575 and we'll get back to you fast.

How to Choose the Right Snowshoe Size

Here's where snowshoes differ from regular footwear: size depends on your total weight, not your boot size. Your body plus whatever you're carrying in your pack determines what you rent.

A few factors come into play:

• Your loaded weight: Heavier loads call for larger snowshoes to stay on top of the snow
• Snow conditions: Light, fluffy powder demands more surface area than dense, packed snow
• Terrain type: Steep or technical routes are easier with smaller, more maneuverable snowshoes

Don't worry about nailing this on your own. When you pick up your rental, our staff asks about your planned route and conditions, then matches you with the right size. If you're heading somewhere with variable terrain, we'll talk through the tradeoffs together.

Snowshoe Rental Add-Ons and Extras

The basic kit covers most outings. But certain conditions call for a bit more gear.

Microspikes

Microspikes are metal traction devices that slip over your boots. They bite into icy or hard-packed surfaces where snowshoes alone might slip.

They're especially useful on trails that see heavy foot traffic and develop a slick, compacted layer. If your route includes exposed ice or you're heading out after a freeze-thaw cycle, microspikes are worth adding.

Gaiters and Layers

Gaiters keep snow from working its way into your boots—a small thing that makes a big difference over several hours. For clothing, the key is layering: a moisture-wicking base layer, an insulating mid-layer, and a waterproof outer shell.

One common mistake? Overdressing. Snowshoeing is aerobic, and you warm up fast. Start slightly cool, and you'll avoid the sweat-then-chill cycle that makes people miserable by hour two.

Avalanche Safety Gear

If you're venturing into the backcountry beyond groomed or marked trails, avalanche awareness becomes part of the equation. Terrain that looks gentle can still slide under the right conditions.

For backcountry travel, a beacon, shovel, and probe are the baseline safety kit. Gearhouse rents complete avalanche rescue kits for anyone heading into avalanche terrain. That said, gear alone isn't enough—knowing how to use it and read terrain takes training.

Best Snowshoeing Trails Near Seattle

Having gear is step one. Knowing where to go is step two. Here are the most accessible options from the city.

Snoqualmie Pass

The closest option, about an hour from Seattle. Trails range from flat, beginner-friendly loops to routes with real elevation gain. The Summit at Snoqualmie and nearby sno-parks offer easy parking and well-marked trails. This is where most first-timers start, and for good reason.

Mount Rainier National Park

About two hours south, Rainier offers stunning scenery and ranger-led snowshoe walks on winter weekends (reservations recommended). The Paradise area provides access to routes with views of the mountain that make the drive worthwhile. Plan for a full day.

North Cascades

More remote and less crowded, the North Cascades reward those willing to drive farther. The terrain tends toward more challenging routes and deeper snow. Best for experienced snowshoers looking for solitude and bigger objectives.

Why Rent Snowshoes Instead of Buying

The rent-versus-buy question comes up constantly. Here's the honest breakdown:

• Try before committing: Snowshoeing might become your new favorite thing, or it might not click. Renting lets you find out without dropping $200+
• No storage hassles: Seattle apartments aren't known for generous closet space. Seasonal gear adds up fast
• Always maintained: Rental gear gets inspected and serviced between uses. Bindings work, crampons are sharp, straps aren't frayed
• Access to variety: Different conditions call for different gear. Renting lets you match the snowshoe to the trip

For people who get out once or twice a season, renting almost always makes more financial sense. Even frequent snowshoers often prefer the convenience of showing up, grabbing maintained gear, and heading out without the hassle of ownership.

Gear Up for Good Times With Gearhouse

Gearhouse exists because getting outside doesn't require a garage full of gear or a friend group that already knows everything. We're a community hub in Capitol Hill—part gear library, part coffee shop, part gathering place for people figuring out this whole outdoor thing together.

Beyond rentals, we run classes for beginners, guided outings to local trails, and a membership program that makes regular access affordable. Whether you've never strapped on snowshoes or you're planning your twentieth trip this season, you'll find people here who get it.

Ready to hit the snow? Browse snowshoe rentals →

Want ongoing access to gear and community? Become a member →

Questions about what you need for a specific trip? Text us at 206-466-0575.

FAQs About Snowshoe Rentals

Do I need experience to rent and use snowshoes?

No prior experience required. Snowshoeing is one of the most beginner-friendly winter activities—if you can walk, you can snowshoe. Our staff shows you how to strap in and move efficiently before you leave the shop.

Can I rent snowshoes for multiple days?

Absolutely. Multi-day and weekend rentals come with flexible pickup and dropoff times. Longer rentals also bring down the per-day cost.

What should I wear when snowshoeing?

Waterproof boots are essential—hiking boots or insulated winter boots work well. Dress in moisture-wicking layers and bring an extra warm layer in your pack. Avoid cotton, which holds moisture and loses insulating ability when wet.

Does REI rent snowshoes?

Some REI locations offer snowshoe rentals, though availability varies by store and tends to be limited during peak season. Worth calling ahead to confirm stock.

How far in advance should I reserve snowshoe rentals?

For peak winter weekends and holidays, reserve as early as possible—popular sizes go quickly. Weekday availability is typically more flexible, and last-minute bookings often work out fine.