Snowshoeing - A Perfect Way to Stay Active This Winter
Snowshoeing is becoming increasingly popular, with young and old alike taking up this fun winter activity. Physical activity is an important part of good health throughout the year, but when the snow falls around Wisconsin, it is common to become less active. Snowshoeing is a fun, safe way to stay active this winter, appreciate nature, and take on a new adventure.
Snowshoeing is simple to learn; if you can walk, you can snowshoe! Before heading out on the trail, though, remember a few safety tips.
If you have not been physically active in recent months or longer, be sure to see your healthcare provider to be sure you are safe for physical activity. Once you are cleared to go, remember to stay within your limits. Walking in snowshoes is harder work than regular walking during the summer. It can take 20-30 minutes to snowshoe 1 mile, so plan accordingly. A snow-packed trail will be the easiest option; for more of a challenge you can try deeper, fresh snow.
Dress appropriately, wearing winter clothing and layers. Warm, insulated boots work well for snowshoes, which can strap to almost any footwear.
Consider bringing along a small daypack with a few safety items, such as a flashlight, hand warmers, cell phone and a small snack. Also, be sure to bring a small bottle of water. Your body needs to stay well-hydrated during exercise in the winter, just like in the summer.
Hiking poles are a great addition to use while snowshoeing, to help with balance, stability, and assist with going up or down hills.
If you’re new to snowshoeing and need a pair to try out, be sure to take advantage of Jackson In Action’s FREE snowshoe check-out program, in partnership with the Lunda Community Center. Any local resident can check-out snowshoes and hiking poles, free of charge, at the Lunda Community Center this winter. Snowshoes are able to be checked out for 48 hours at a time, and are available on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Snowshoeing can be done throughout the county in local parks and trails, as well as in your own backyard. A few places to try include the Lunda Community Park in Black River Falls, the Skyline Golf Course in Black River Falls, Wazee Lake Recreation Area, the Melrose-Mindoro school cross country trail, and East Arbutus County Park.
Also, mark your calendars for several upcoming snowshoe events. As part of the Winter Wonderland Snowshoe Challenge, Jackson In Action will have snowshoe trails marked on February 9-11 at Lunda Community Park.
In addition, Jackson In Action will be hosting the Jackson County Winter Fest on Saturday, January 27, from 5-8pm at the Skyline Golf Course. This will include a lighted snowshoe hike, sledding, an outdoor fire with smores and hot chocolate.
Learn more about the Snowshoe Checkout Program and upcoming snowshoe events at www.JacksonInAction.org, or contact Dawn Jacobson at Jackson County Public Health at 715-284-4301.
Jackson County: Healthy People, Strong Community.
