Snowshoes: A relatively cheap, easy way for non-skiers to enjoy winter

By Katy Moeller - 01/07/2009

BOISE, Idaho — Skiing may be the most popular way to get out into the snow in the winter, but it is not for everyone.

Those who don't have the physical skills, interest or money to hit the slopes don't have to sit at home next to the fireplace while others frolic outdoors.

Snowshoeing is an easy, relatively inexpensive alternative to skiing.

"If you can walk and you're willing, it's something anybody can do," said Peg Havlovick, manager of the Frontier Point Recreation Center, the home for Nordic skiing and snowshoeing at Bogus Mountain Recreation Area.

Havlovick said there's been a surge of participation in snowshoeing at Bogus Basin in the past couple years, in part because of the growth in the Treasure Valley.

"I think it's people who never had an experience of being on snow in any form and this is an easy interface," Havlovick said.

Snowshoes, which are designed to spread weight over a larger area to prevent sinking in the snow, are strapped onto boots. Poles are optional, but recommended.

The cost to rent a pair of snowshoes for a day varies. Most are less than $15. Bogus Basin charges $10 for a full day; $8 for an afternoon.

A trail pass at Bogus Basin is $5 for a full day; $3 for a half day.

Bogus' snowshoe trails include: 1-kilometer Billy Goat Trail, 1-kilometer Streamside Trail and 2-kilometer Mountain Goat Loop. A map is available at www.bogusbasin.org.

Those who are new to snowshoeing in the mountains should expect to feel challenged by the elevation and weight of the snowshoes.

"It is more challenging than walking down the sidewalk," Havlovick said.

She recommends poles to help with stability and balance.

Snowshoers share ungroomed Nordic trails with skiers. Snowshoers must stay on the outside edges of the trails, in a single-file line.

Going off-trail is permitted, but it is not recommended for beginners. Be sure to dress warmly, bring a map and compass with you, pack water, and let someone know where you plan to go.