Ranger-led Snowshoe Hikes

there will be two hikes each Saturday, one for beginners called the “Snowshoe Saunter” and one for more experienced snowshoe hikers called the “Snowshoe Trek.”

Snowshoes will be loaned at no charge to participants that do not have their own. The National Lakeshore has traditional and modern snowshoes available.

Not only is snowshoeing easy, fun, and good exercise, it is also an activity that can be enjoyed by all ages. The ranger-led hikes are mildly strenuous, yet they proceed at a leisurely pace for one and a half miles at the most.

The “Snowshoe Saunter” will allow for more time to put on the snowshoes and to practice using them, and will go at a slow pace with multiple stops along the way. These are great for families with younger children and those newer to snowshoeing. It will be a leisurely exploration through the National Lakeshore’s cool spots.

The “Snowshoe Trek” will be slightly faster-paced and the terrain might be a little more rugged. There will still be interpretive stops along the hike to discover the park’s resources. Both of these hikes will involve exploration and adventure.

Fees

These hikes are free, but participants do need a park entrance pass or have an annual pass to join in the fun.

Reservation or Registration

Reservations are required whether participants borrow snowshoes from the National Lakeshore or have their own. To cancel a reservation, please call the National Lakeshore so visitors on the waiting list can be contacted to participate in the hike. Please call 231-326-4700, extension 5010, for details and to make reservations. When making your reservation, be sure to specify if you would like to join the “Snowshoe Saunter” or “Snowshoe Trek.” If there is not enough snow, winter hikes will be offered.

Schedule

All hikes start at 1:00 p.m. with an introduction at the Philip A. Hart Visitor Center in Empire. Inside the visitor center, rangers will first provide an introduction and basic snowshoeing instructions, and then everyone will travel by car to the trailhead or area of the National Lakeshore pre-selected for that day. Once there, the ranger will help participants learn about the park’s unique features and winter’s effect on them by exploring and discovering clues on site. Be prepared and plan to be outside for about two hours. Dress in layers and wear waterproof boots to be most comfortable.

Event Type

• Hike