Safe while hiking in winter

Snowshoeing is one of the quietest, most beautiful, and at the same time most nature-connected winter experiences in South Tyrol. Around Hotel Jägerhof in the Passeiertal Valley, countless tours await, from easy hikes through snowy forests to more demanding routes through high alpine landscapes.

To ensure that this winter adventure remains safe and enjoyable, however, the right snowshoe equipment and know-how on how to use it are essential. In this article, we explain which piece of equipment serves which purpose, why safety gear is indispensable, and why Jägerhof is the perfect hotel for snowshoe hikers.

1. The Most Important Snowshoe Equipment at a Glance

Snowshoes – stable & secure footing‍

Modern snowshoes prevent sinking into deep snow.
Important features:

• Good crampons/spikes under the bindings
• Stable bindings
• Grippy frame

The more challenging the terrain, the more important robust models are. For leisure hikers, there are lightweight snowshoes; for steeper routes, models with more aggressive traction.

Poles – balance & support

Telescopic poles make it easier to:

• Walk in deep snow
• Maintain balance
• Relieve joints
• Ascend & descend

With large winter baskets, the poles don’t sink—a small but crucial detail.

Avalanche equipment – transceiver, probe, shovel‍

Even though many snowshoe tours are relatively easy, in the Alps, you can NEVER rely solely on your eyes. Especially in fresh snow, poor visibility, or unfamiliar terrain, the right safety equipment is essential.

• Transceiver (avalanche beacon): sends and receives signals, lifesaving in emergencies, must be worn directly on the body
• Probe: used to locate a buried person, inserted into the snow to determine the exact position
• Shovel: important for digging out, should be sturdy & lightweight, no plastic shovels – aluminum is a must

Why this set is so important:

Even on small slopes, the avalanche risk can be underestimated. The equipment is not just for professionals—it is basic gear for everyone venturing off groomed trails.

2. Why Snowshoeing with a Mountain Guide is Safer & More Relaxing

Many tours around Walten, Ratschings, and the upper Passeiertal Valley seem easy, but winter terrain is complex. A professional mountain guide:

• Assesses avalanche risk & snow profiles
• Chooses safe routes
• Knows alternative paths in poor visibility
• Teaches technique & proper behavior
• Recognizes hazards before they become visible

Especially for guests who:

• Have little experience
• Prefer relaxed, safe tours
• Don’t want to worry about navigation & risk assessment

…a mountain guide is the perfect choice.

Jägerhof has been working with professional South Tyrolean mountain guides for almost 30 years, who know the area like the back of their hand.‍

3. Why Jägerhof is the Perfect Hotel for Snowshoe Hikers

Jägerhof is a true snowshoe hotel—and it hasn’t just become one recently. Our location in Walten, surrounded by snowy forests, quiet slopes, and peaceful trails, makes us an ideal starting point for snowshoe tours.

✓ 30 Years of Snowshoeing Experience‍

The host family and our guides have known the winter landscape of the Passeiertal Valley for decades and know exactly which tour is the most beautiful and safest at any given time.

✓ Guided Snowshoe Tours with Professional Mountain Guides‍

Several times a week, we offer guided tours for beginners, leisure hikers, or those with a sporting ambition.

Our tours are:

• Safe
• Varied
• Scenically impressive
• Educational

✓ Equipment Rental‍

At the hotel, we provide:

• Snowshoes
• Poles
• Safety equipment (depending on the tour)

Guests can therefore start directly from Jägerhof, comfortably, conveniently, and perfectly equipped.

✓ Tours Directly from the Hotel‍

Many routes start right at the doorstep. No car needed—just start walking.

✓ Nature, Peace & South Tyrolean Hospitality‍

After the tour, you can enjoy:

• Sauna
• Regional cuisine
• Cozy rooms
• A warm, family-like atmosphere

A winter holiday exactly as it should be: connected to nature, relaxing, and safe.‍

4. Safety First – Our Recommendation for All Snowshoe Hikers

Whether you are in the Passeiertal Valley, around Ratschings, or heading towards Pfelders:
Safety is the most important piece of equipment.

Our tips:

• Never go into the terrain without an avalanche transceiver set
• Plan tours according to snow & weather reports
• Read the avalanche bulletin
• Never start alone
• Bring suitable clothing & spare clothes
• If in doubt, ALWAYS go with a mountain guide

Conclusion – Snowshoeing at Jägerhof: Experience Nature, Travel Safely

Winter around Hotel Jägerhof in South Tyrol offers everything snowshoe hikers are looking for: peace, untouched winter landscapes, breathtaking views, and a hotel that has specialized in this type of nature experience for decades.

With the right snowshoe equipment, professional guidance, and the experience of the Jägerhof team, every tour becomes a safe and unforgettable winter day.