Head outdoors on snowshoes
Outdoor enthusiasts received education on one more way to enjoy the outdoors during winter, with Snowshoeing for Beginners (North) at Cabela’s in Hamburg on Jan. 14. While there was no snow on the ground the day of the educational program, the nine participants learned what they needed to be ready for when snow arrived on Tuesday, Jan. 16.
An introduction to snowshoeing, discussion reviewed types of snowshoes, as well as trekking poles, footwear, and clothing to keep comfortable when participating in this fun-filled activity. After an indoor session, the participants were supposed to relocate to the Kernsville Dam Recreation Area to put their newly learned skills to use but there was no snow so they didn’t head outdoors after the program.
Presented by the Berks County Parks and Recreation Department, Snowshoeing for Beginners (North) was co-sponsored by Cabela’s and Blue Mountain Wildlife.
Kerry Grim of Blue Mountain Wildlife said the purpose of the event was to “teach the basis of snowshoeing equipment and use but with a strong emphasis of proper clothing, essential to having a good experience. Of Course, no snow so there was no field training.”
Grim said the program was led by Becky Richards from Berks County Parks and Recreation Department and Kathleen Grim, skilled outdoors woman and former Blue Marsh Recreation Area Ranger with some assistance from the staff at Cabela’s.
“The two presenters were very interesting to listen to as was the additional commentary from Cabela’s staff,” he said.
He hopes this event “teaches the community a new skill as a way to enjoy the outdoors” and gain “an additional means to enjoying the outdoors and the benefit of exercise.”
Grim anticipates snowshoeing skills being useful this season, particularly if it snows locally.
“There are trails in state parks to the north (Hickory Run for example) with trails for snowshoers and skiers.”
The mission of Blue Mountain Wildlife, Inc. is the preservation and conservation of the wildlife and wetlands along the scenic Schuylkill River. For more information, follow on Facebook at Blue Mountain Wildlife Incorporated.