A Last Chance for Snowshoe Season

Before the snow completely disappears for the season, grab your snowshoes for a trek at Coon Rapids Dam Regional Park. A Three Rivers Parks naturalist shares ideas on what you can see while on a snowy walk in the woods.

Thoughts from a Naturalist

Megan Kelzenberg enjoys the wonders of winter. She embraces the elements – especially snowshoeing.

“I know for myself when I go out snowshoeing,” Kelzenberg said, ” if I am able to see animal tracks, it’s like a story has been told in front of you.”

Kelzenberg works for the Three Rivers Parks District and is passionate about snowshoeing.

“Strap on the snow shoes,” Kelzenberg said. “Walk. You’re good to go. It is a great family activity.”

While exploring the many miles of trails in the Three Rivers Parks system, Kelzenberg has seen unique habitats and amazing sights.

“You might see small mouse tracks followed by owl wing prints into the snow,” Kelzenberg said. “Your imagination can take off just by thinking what had happened just the night before you were out there.”

Blazing trails

Recently photographer Dustin Scholl and I did some exploring of our own. We went snowshoeing at Coon Rapids Dam Regional Park in the NW suburbs.

One of the cool things about snowshoeing is blazing your own trail. In just minutes we were standing on the banks of the mighty Mississippi River.

Our snowy adventure gave us an up close look at nature in all its splendor.

Ice flows moved down the river. Birds occupied snowy islands in the middle of the water. A tree arch was our gateway to discovery.

Good cardio

Snowshoeing is also good cardio and sometimes a butt-kicker.

“It can be,” Kelzenberg said. “Depending on how deep the snow is.”

Another bonus is that the sport is inexpensive. Cost for new snowshoes starts at approximately $50.

“It can be affordable,” Kelzenberg said. “We offer rentals for 5 dollars at many of our visitor centers within Three Rivers Park District.”

The keys to an enjoyable experience are dressing in layers, knowing your surroundings and making sure your snowshoes aren’t loose.

Brooklyn Park