From the Trails

Winter can take a toll on a person.  The shoveling, the extra time it takes to get anywhere, the schleeping through the muck, the shoveling…  But once upon a time, winter did not seem like the ideal time to tour Florida’s many condo projects, but a magical wonderland to explore.  This winter, I am on a quest to embrace winter – reconnect with the mystical hushed season that once gave me such joy.  So I’ve been looking for ways to get out in nature and spark my inner snow day child.

That’s when I discovered snowshoeing.  Apparently, snow shoeing is exploding in popularity.  Contrary to other winter sports, if you can walk, chances are you can snow shoe.   Plus it burns crazy calories and is pretty darn inexpensive.  Sign me up!

If there is a trail, you can probably snow shoe it.  But here are a couple trails that offer ideal viewing and conditions.

Brown’s Woods, front and back loop
Yellow Banks Park, Savanna Trail
Easter Lake Park, Wymore Trail
Fort Des Moines Park, Nature Trail (trail starts off the SW corner of the dam)
Jester Park, Hickory Ridge Trail

One other one I can’t wait to explore this winter – the High Trestle Trail.  I’m sure the bridge will offer amazing viewing.

 

For more tips and tricks about snow shoeing visit here.

 

Where to rent snow shoes:

Polk County Conservation:  Equipment can be reserved in advance by calling (515) 323-5300. Equipment must be picked up and dropped off at Jester Park during normal business hours, Monday – Friday, 8:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
Snowshoe Rental (snowshoes only): $7/day

Rasmussen Bike Shop:  $18/ day pr $28/ weekend