Celebrate Winter Trails Day at Lolo Pass

Celebrate Winter Trails Day with free snowshoeing or cross-country skiing on January 12, 2013, at many locations throughout the United States. The event includes free use of equipment at almost 100 Nordic Centers and resorts nationwide. If you’re a boomer hiker, there’s a good chance you’ll also enjoy these two winter activities. They all take place on a quiet trail in the wilderness and offer a nature experience that you won’t soon forget. Alan and I had a blast learning to snowshoe at Hidden Meadow Ranch in Greer, Arizona.

Although the snowshoeing and cross-country skiing aren’t free at Lolo Pass on the Montana/Idaho border—there’s a $5 per car fee—you’ll discover groomed, dedicated trails for both snowshoers and cross-country skiers. Plus, snowmobilers and skiers also share the use of forest roads (sorry snowshoers, to be safe, you need to stay on the trail meant for you). I’d like to say that Alan and I have tried the winter fun at Lolo Pass. Unfortunately, I suffered a back injury while on our Rhine River Christmas cruise (more about that soon) and am out of commission when it comes to active boomer travel experiences. So, over the holidays, Alan and I shared the snowshoes that we gave each other for Christmas with my daughter and her boyfriend, who took them up to Lolo Pass to give us a first-hand report. They raved about the conditions and low price of admission.

Will you be celebrating Winter Trails Day? Post a comment to tell us about your favorite U.S. destination for snowshoeing or cross-country skiing. I’m parcticing my stretches and taking care of my back so that Alan and I can try out our new snowshoes before the winter is over.