If you can walk, you can snowshoe, adherents of the sport are fond of saying. And if you can snowshoe, they might add, you can enjoy the mountains in winter as fully as you may in summer.
For proof, check out Winter Trails Day, an annual introduction to shoeshoeing, set for Saturday in Rocky Mountain National Park near Estes Park.
The family-friendly event, which runs from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., features free instruction and use of equipment, along with short guided hikes in and out of the area around Glacier Basin campground.
Also part of the program are presentations on winter safety, demonstrations of outdoor gear and the on-site construction of an igloo.
It’s all part of a nationwide effort to get adults and children who are new to snow sports to try out this invigorating activity, which not only offers a terrific cardiovascular workout but can be a great social outlet, too.
Dress in layers, wear hiking boots and take water, sun protection and snacks. And be aware that while the festivities are free, normal park entrance fees apply. For more information, visit wintertrails
.org or call the Estes Park Chamber of Commerce at 800-378-3708 or 970-586-4431.
– Jack Cox
