Clinics help snowshoers walk the walk
WINTERSPORTS -- A long list of services and events is forming this winter to help more snowshoers get on the trail.
Through the winter season, new snowshoe and nordic ski rental service is available at Mount Spokane State Park nordic ski area next to Selkirk Lodge and the Mount Spokane nordic ski trails.
Fitness Fanatics has a trailer full of gear to rent, 9 a.m.-4 p.m., Thursdays-Mondays during the winter season. Washington Sno-Park permits also are available.
Rent gear in advance by calling the Spokane Valley store, (509) 922-6080.
Best Hand Fun Ski and Snowshoe
On Jan. 3, the 24th annual fun event at Fourth of July Pass sponsored by the Panhandle Nordic Club in conjunction with Idaho's Free Ski Day, when the state Park N Ski vehicle sticker requirement is waived. Check in starting at 10 a.m., and then take off at your own pace at 11:30 a.m. Prizes and refreshments provided. The event is a fundraiser for the club, which maintains the winter trails at the pass.
On Jan. 6 at 7 p.m., a free primer on snowshoeing by the store's staff covering gear selection and where to go.
Pre-register at www.rei.com/spokane.
On Jan. 8 at 7 p.m., learn about skijoring, a winter sport in which a person wearing skis is drawn dog-sled style over snow by one or more dogs.
Pre-register at www.rei.com/spokane.
On Jan. 11, Spokane Nordic is celebrating cross-country skiing and other winter sports at Mount Spokane's Cross-Country Ski Park.
Sign up for activities at www.spokanenordic.org.
Holiday rental bargain
On Jan.17-19 -- Mountain Gear is offering a deal -- a 50-pecent discount on snowshoe rentals -- during the Martin Luther King week. A free Snowshoeing 101 clinic is set for 6 p.m. Friday, Jan. 16, at the retail store, 2002 N. Division.
Info: 325-9000.
On Feb. 1, the 10th annual snowshoeing or nordic skiing event at Mount Spokane State Park will benefit the Women and Children's Free Restaurant. Snow-shoes, guided treks, prizes and a fabulous lunch provided.
Pre-register: www.souperbowlspokane.org.
