How do you feel about snow? Snow is special because it’s only around a certain time of year and in particular places around the world. I was elated when we got the first decent snowfall at the start of the month. Some have mixed feelings, but here in Colorado many of us get excited when those tiny white crystals fall from the sky. The excitement is for outdoor sports opportunities that only snow can provide. There are so many to choose from: ice fishing, skiing, snowboarding, animal tracking, ice skating, fat biking and more. Mueller State Park is a beloved place for winter fun; especially for cross country skiing, sledding and snowshoeing. In this article I’ll dive deeper into the snowshoe. Who thought of it? Are they actually useful? What do I need to know to get started? All of these questions and more will be answered. It’s estimated that the first snowshoes were created in Central Asia 4,000-6,000 years ago. Although this is debated, it is clear that Native American tribes have been using snowshoes for a very long time. Native American snowshoes are traditionally made of a frame of wood, antler, or bone with inner mesh connected to the frame made of animal skin. The design is different depending on location and purpose such as hunting, mountain climbing or general travel. According to the PENN Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology, some of the best designs come from North American latitudes and not from arctic regions because the snow here is deeper and stays softer making it harder to move in. In Colorado, snowshoes are mostly used as a fun sport. They can be purchased at most outdoor stores in the area running around $100-$300 for an adult pair depending on the brand and style; shops selling used gear offer lower prices and others rent them. Either way, keeping your snowshoe straps attached leads to a more successful trip. Jokes aside, snowshoes come in different sizes based on conditions and load. Check the load of the snowshoes to ensure they are the correct size for you. The load must be heavier than your weight since you should carry a pack with water, snacks, first aid, etc., while snowshoeing. Remember that the purpose of the snowshoe is to keep you on top of the snow, so this measurement is important. Weight load is critical for certain animals too. Lynx for example have a small weight-load ratio of foot size to weight, of 34 grams per centimeter squared. For comparison, my weight load as an adult without snowshoes is about 106 grams per cm squared. This helps to stay on top of the snow, conserve energy and move more efficiently. Multiple sources suggest using snowshoes when there are six or more inches of snow on the ground. Not only do they make the walk easier, they make it safer by keeping you away from unseen hazards under the snow like large rocks or holes. Remember to pack your usual hiking essentials and dress in layers with a waterproof exterior. For beginners, hiking poles can be useful for balance; with experience, poles are useful for speed. When there is enough snow, Mueller staff groom 3 trails for all types of winter users including snowshoers. You’re not restricted to these trails, but grooming creates a smoother surface making it easier for those new to the sport. Keep a look out on these trails for cross country ski tracks and walk on the opposite side of the trail to keep the tracks intact. If this article piqued your interest you should join our , “Intro to Snowshoeing Class,” I’m leading at Pikes Peak Library 21C, Chapel Hills Drive, Colorado Springs. This adult class is Sat, Jan. 24 at 11 a.m. We will chat more about snowshoeing techniques, take a look at different current snowshoe designs and review some great places to snowshoe near the front range. Register onthe Pikes Peak Library District website starting Jan. 8. ...read more read less