Explorer Snowshoe Rental
Discover winter trails with ease using our Explorer Snowshoe Rentals. Designed for stability and comfort, these snowshoes make it simple for beginners and experienced hikers to tra vel across snowy terrain. Lightweight, durable, and built for Northwest conditions, they give you the freedom to explore forests, ridgelines, and open snowfields at your own pace. Snowshoeing is an accessible, family-friendly winter activity that doesn’t require prior experience. With quality gear and included trekking poles, you can enjoy a quiet, scenic winter outing without the cost or complexity of other snow sports. Features Strong 6063 aluminum frame is lightweight and durable for all snowshoeing conditions Anodized frame for everlasting wear and finish Dual Ratchet bindings are constructed with stainless steel springs to give you a secure fit for years Explorer Flex decking provides durability in the coldest weather conditions. Articulating Toe Band makes the movement of the bindings and crampons fluid. Front and rear cleat crampons for secure grip on deep snow, ice, rocks, wood, and other terrains Explorer Snowshoe kit includes: 1 pair of Explorer Plus snowshoes 1 pair of aluminum twist-lock trekking poles 1 travel bag featuring Air Dry Mesh Highlights A simple, beginner-friendly winter activity—no experience required Premium, Northwest-tested snowshoes + trekking poles included Explore serene forests, ridgelines, and untouched winter landscapes at your own pace Flexible rentals designed to pair perfectly with your Kitsap Peninsula or Olympic snowshoe adventure Additional Information Check-in details Pick up and return your snowshoe rental directly from our Port Gamble storefront. Your rental period begins on the first day of your reservation and ends at midnight on the final day of your reservation. We offer flexible access even when the shop is closed—our outdoor dropbox makes early pickup or late drop-off available outside of normal store hours. Please call us at 360-297-4659 to arrange early pickup or to notify us of a late return to the dropbox. All gear must be returned by midnight on the last day of your reservation to avoid additional rental charges. What to bring Waterproof boots (essential for proper binding fit) Warm, layered clothing and gloves A small daypack with water and snacks Optional: gaiters for deep snow Special requirements Children under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian at all times during the rental period. Restrictions Snowshoeing requires moderate physical activity and may not be suitable for individuals with impaired mobility, balance challenges, or certain medical conditions. Pregnant individuals should consult a healthcare provider before participating. Children must be able to walk independently in snowshoes, and minors under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. Proper waterproof boots are required for safe use. Health & Safety Snowshoeing is a winter activity that requires proper clothing, hydration, and awareness of changing conditions. Dress in warm, layered clothing and wear waterproof boots to stay dry and maintain stability in the bindings. Use caution when traveling on uneven, icy, or steep terrain. Trekking poles are recommended (and included) to help with balance. Always stay on established trails when possible and be aware of snow-covered obstacles such as roots, holes, or creek crossings. Check the weather before heading out and avoid areas with avalanche risk unless you have proper training and equipment. Let someone know your route and expected return time, especially when exploring remote areas. Road access and winter conditions vary—always check the National Park Service website for closures, chain requirements, and current weather before traveling. If you experience discomfort, extreme cold, or signs of fatigue, turn back early. Your safety and comfort come first—choose terrain that matches your experience level and conditions. Disclaimers Participants are responsible for their own safety, awareness of terrain, and decision-making while snowshoeing. Outdoor conditions can change rapidly, and Olympic Outdoor Center is not liable for injuries, lost items, or weather-related impacts during your outing. FAQs Is there a maximum size limit? Our snowshoes fit most adults and youth (80–300 lbs. with gear). If you’re outside this range, call us to confirm availability. Do I need prior experience to use snowshoes? No experience is required. Snowshoeing is beginner-friendly and easy to learn, making it great for families and first-time winter explorers. What should I wear for snowshoeing? Waterproof boots, warm layers, gloves, and weather-appropriate clothing are essential. Gaiters are recommended for deep snow. Are trekking poles included? Yes. Trekking poles are included with your rental to help with balance and stability. Can children use snowshoes? Yes, as long as they can walk independently in snowshoes. Children under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. Where do I pick up and drop off the equipment? All rentals are picked up and returned at our Port Gamble storefront during regular business hours. Cancellations Customers may receive a full refund or credit with 72 hours’ notice of cancellation. No-shows will be charged the full price. Substitutions of other participants are allowed on the day of pickup. Late returns may incur additional charges at our standard daily rental rate. No refunds or credits will be provided for any cancellations received less than 72 hours before the scheduled rental period for any reason. Snowshoe rentals continue in typical winter conditions. We do not send rentals out in unsafe weather such as heavy wind, severe storms, or lightning. If we must cancel due to weather or other unforeseen circumstances, you may reschedule or receive a full refund or credit. Itinerary Snowshoeing in Olympic National Park: Where to Go *Snow levels vary throughout winter. Feel free to call us for current snow conditions and recommended destinations.* Hurricane Ridge Hurricane Ridge is one of Olympic National Park’s classic winter routes, offering a mix of gentle stretches and more demanding terrain. Along the way, you’ll wander past frost-laden evergreens, open snowy meadows, and thick forest corridors before reaching sweeping vistas of Mount Olympus. Visibility can change quickly, so always check conditions before heading out. Distance: 6 miles • Time: ~4 hours Elevation Gain: 800 ft Difficulty: Easy to moderately challenging Route Type: Out-and-back Trailhead: From Port Angeles, follow Hurricane Ridge Road about 17 miles to the Visitor Center. Sign in at the lodge near the trail. Blue Mountain / Deer Park This route climbs steadily through dense stands of cedar and fir, offering chances to spot black-tailed deer, mountain goats, and the occasional playful marten. The ascent up Deer Park Road to Blue Mountain’s summit can be a rewarding challenge for experienced snowshoers. Distance: 14 miles round trip • Time: ~6 hours (overnight possible) Elevation Gain: 2,500 ft Difficulty: More difficult — suited for those with prior snowshoeing experience Route Type: Out-and-back Trailhead: From Port Angeles, head south on Deer Park Road. Follow it for 9 miles to the park boundary. Winter gates may be closed at 2,000 ft elevation; if open, continue another 2.8 miles to the upper gate at 3,500 ft or as far as snow allows. Begin your trip wherever road access ends. Eagle Point This route begins with a sharp descent before transitioning to gentler terrain, eventually delivering stunning views of Mount Olympus. Along the way, take in dramatic overlooks of the Lillian River Valley, the Bailey Range, Steeple Rock, and Eagle Point itself. In heavy snowfall, the final 3 miles can become hazardous—turn back if visibility or conditions deteriorate. Distance: 10 miles round trip • Time: ~7 hours (overnight possible) Elevation Gain: 2,500 ft Difficulty: Most difficult Route Type: Out-and-back Trailhead: From Port Angeles, follow Hurricane Ridge Road 17 miles to the Visitor Center and sign in (required). Then descend 0.5 mile back down the road to the designated parking area for the trail. Mount Angeles Reaching this trail takes some effort, but the reward is well worth it—quiet alpine meadows, icy evergreen groves, and far-reaching views of Blue Mountain, Elk Mountain, and Maiden Peak. This high-elevation outing stays lofty from start to finish and is best suited for snowshoers with solid winter backcountry skills. Distance: 6 miles • Time: ~6 hours Elevation Gain: 600 ft Difficulty: Backcountry experience recommended Route Type: Out-and-back Trailhead: From Port Angeles, drive 17 miles up Hurricane Ridge Road to the Visitor Center. Sign in at the center; the trailhead begins nearby.
