You need snowshoes to stay above it!

​Yes, we have snow, and folks are taking advantage of the winter recreation available and that includes snowshoeing. You say you need snowshoes? Well, there’s a special program at Voyageurs National Park where you will end up with your own very personal pair of snowshoes. Jim DeVries, Senior Naturalist for the Laurentian Environmental Center will guide participants in the art of lacing a pair of snowshoes that are both beautiful and functional. The snowshoe lacing workshop will be from 10 am to 4 pm on Saturday, January 28 and requires a $120.00 fee for materials and instruction.

Registration and payment can be made through Voyageurs National Park Association, just click here There are a minimum number of participants required and you need to register before January 13 to ensure materials will arrive on time.

This workshop is part of the “Winter at Voyageurs Event Series” brought to you by the National Park Service and sponsored by VNPA. Their series of events is included in our calendar of events which is accessible at the top of this page. Just click on the “events” tab. If you wish, you can visit their website to see the events with a click here.

Meanwhile, snowmobilers and skiers are hitting their trails and finding good conditions. The green trail on Rainy Lake and on to the Kabetogama and Ash River communities is open and staked. International Voyageurs Snowmobile Club has had their groomers out steadily with the recent snows. You’ll find the latest trail reports posted on their website, at www.ridetheborder.com

Ice anglers are also getting out and word is the walleye and crappie fishing has been good using jigs and minnows. Snowmobiles and portable gear will allow you to check out many of the best areas and remain mobile. With the ability to move around comes the responsibility to be safe. Know the ice conditions and put safety first at all times.