There are two ways to look at snow on the trails:
- The trails are covered with snow, so now I can’t use them.
- It snowed last night, so now I can blaze my own trail.
Don’t make excuses when it comes to getting out on the trail. All seasons offer new trail opportunities. If you live in an area that is occasionally blanketed in snow, buy some snowshoes or cross-country skis. Expense doesn’t have to be an issue. Nearly fifteen years ago, I bought a brand new pair of nordic skis for $25 at an end-of-the-season clearance sale. My snowshoes were on sale for under $70. I’ve used both snowy trail devices over 100 times. Sometimes I take them up in the mountains, but most of the time, I use them right out my back door (see pictures).
Don’t forget garage sales, Craigslist, and want ads in the newspaper. You could also rent winter equipment, but from my experience, it makes more sense to just buy some snowshoes and/or nordic skis so you have them available when you need them. Over the years, you’ll probably get your money’s worth. I know I certainly have.