Celebrate National Winter Trails Day

12/30/2007 - The 13th annual Winter Trails® Day offers children and adults new to snow sports the chance to try snowshoeing and cross-country skiing free at more than 100 locations in 25 states and four Canadian provinces. Most Winter Trails venues are located at Nordic Centers while others are on National Forest and Park Service land and at snow resorts. Winter Trails events provide the opportunity to discover the fitness benefits of snow sports and the fun to be had by participating in these easy-to-learn activities. Equipment will be provided. Many venues offer educational programs and guided tours. WHO: Winter Trails is presented through a partnership between SnowSports Industries America, the not-for-profit member-owned trade association representing snow and winter sports companies, American Hiking Society, a recreation –based conservation organization that promotes and protects foot trails and the hiking experience, and Cross Country Ski Areas Association, a national organization representing Nordic Centers across North America. . WHERE: More than 100 venues across North America. Visit www.wintertrails.org for updates on locations and event details WHEN: National Event on Saturday, January 12, 2008; Final Event at Estes Park, CO on Saturday, February, 16, 2008. Visit www.wintertrails.org for start times. WHY: Winter Trails is a great way to learn winter outdoor activities that are fun and easy to do with friends and family. For example, snowshoeing and cross country skiing can earn points towards a President’s Challenge Award for Active Lifestyles that keep participants healthy, fit and trim during the winter months. Both sports are experiencing a resurgence in participation. In 2007, more than 12,000 people partook in Winter Trails Day and together burned 6 million calories per hour. The average person can burn 500 calories per hour by snowshoeing and/or cross country skiing.