It’s cold outside. It’s snowing. Then again, it’s Syracuse. So, we might as well have a good time with it, right? Thanks to Recreation Services, we can!
Recreation Services, in partnership with Drumlins Country Club, is offering all SU/ESF ID card holders the opportunity to try cross country skiing and snowshoeing for free until March 31 (weather permitting). In order to prepare ourselves for embracing the tradition of winter sports, we worked with Scott Catucci, associate director in Recreation Services, to figure out what snowshoeing is all about.
What should we wear?
Bundle up. You are quite literally walking, or waddling, in cold weather. The magic maker for snowshoeing is the boots. Make sure they are insulated, waterproof and have thick soles. As far as clothes, aim for moisture-wicking layers. You’ve got your base layer. You’ve got your warm layer. You’ve got your outer layer. Put it all together, add on a hat and gloves and you should be good to go. Pro tip: don’t forget about sunscreen.
REI has a nifty snowshoe day-hiking checklist that you could use before your day on the trails.
I’m dressed. Now what?
Get to Drumlins! At Drumlins, access to the cross country ski and snowshoe trails and equipment is free for all SU/ESF ID card holders. Access is located next to the Golf Pro Shop. The trails and equipment are open and available Friday to Sunday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Driving or ride sharing? Plug in this address: Drumlins Golf Course, 800 Nottingham Road
Taking the Centro Campus bus? Check out the Centro schedule.
Okay, I’m here. How do I do it?
Strap those snowshoes on and go for it! Walking on the flat/rolling ground of the trails at Drumlins will be pretty intuitive. Keep in mind that your stance will be slightly wider than usual, which might bring some soreness after your first couple times out. Worth it though. Do as the penguins do and waddle your way to winter bliss.
What makes snowshoeing so great anyway?
Snowshoeing is a fun and easy way to get outside during the winter months and stay active. It also provides an opportunity to see a new perspective on winter and snow. Most people just think of the downsides of snow (shoveling, slippery roads, etc.), but when you get out and snowshoe you experience the beauty and solitude that snow brings to the surrounding areas.
Any extra fun times to go give it a try?
Sure! Check out Cocoa, Coffee and Twilight: Early morning ski/snowshoe and a cup of cocoa or coffee from 7 to 9 a.m. The next one is Tuesday, March 5. No advanced registration is required for this non-guided program.
