Do I need a guide for snowshoeing or cross country skiing? I have never been before.?

I cannot speak for X country skiing (although I just ordered a pair)...yet

As for snowshoeing there is pretty much absolutely nothing to it....it is just like walking. One thing though, in addition to knowing where you are going you might want to take poles as they are very helpful when in deep snow and on uneven terrain.

If you decide to buy snowshoes get the ones from MSR with the removable tails. They have a ton a teeth on the crampons on bottom which make it nearly impossible to slide and you can get different tail lengths for various snow depths and conditions....say ice vs powder.

Expect to go slow....very slow since you have large "items" now attached to your feet.

A couple other items you may want to consider are wearing either snow pants (ski/boarding) or gaiters to keep the snow out of your WATERPROOF BOOTS. This will also help keep your wool or ski socks dry and feet warm.

Drink plenty since you are in dry air at high altitude.

Have fun! Its a blast being able to get to places that few others experience.

I think it's always a good idea to know where you're going! If you're going to a place that is only for cc skiing and snowshoeing (like a nordic center) it's probably not too big of a deal. But if you're planning to just head out on a open trail I would definitely recommend having a guide/map!

Have fun!

1st thing is Im not being a smart blank blank blank

by asking this but are you in shape ?

2nd do you have someone going with you?

it s harder then it looks with deeper snow but a lot of fun

drink a lot of water

if it was me I try it around the resort frist then if you like it

I think about taken a guided tour

cause YOUR the one spending the money

and why spend money on something you dont like

just my 2 cents