Join us for a free snowshoe outing this Sunday.

We'll stay fairly close to town. We'll spend 1-2 hours on the snow. We
may do a mix of packed trails and off-trail powder. Once on the trail,
we may split into two groups - hiking and running.

Where: Location tbd, possibly somewhere along Squaw Pass. Suggestions?
We'll carpool/caravan. The exact location will depend on snow, wind
and group wishes.

Carpool meets: 11:15-11:30am. Cold Spring Park-n-Ride, 4th and Union,
in Lakewood. Take 6th ave. to the Simms/Union exit. Go south. Take the
first left at 4th, then left into the lot. Meet towards the N end of
the lot.
http://www.rtd-denver.com/parknride/index.html

Snowshoeing is very easy to learn. I (Adam) will give some brief
instructions. If you can walk, you can snowshoe.

What to wear/bring: Snowshoeing may be the warmest outside winter
sport. You generate a lot of heat. Dress in wicking layers. Slick
outer layers will keep you dry (even in the sun, you kick up snow from
below). Don't wear fleece on an outer layer (it grabs snow).

Keep the feet warm. Wear good wool, and/or neoprene/gore-tex socks.
Plastic shopping bags (over socks) also work to keep the feet dry.
Trail (small, just covering the ankle) or back-country gaitors keep
snow out of your shoes. Running shoes are fine if you have good
socks/foot protection. Gore-tex shoes are great for snowshoeing.
Hiking boots work well. You can even use x-c ski boots (fairly light,
waterproof, and insulated).

Bring dry shoes, socks, clothes to change into for after snowshoeing.

For more tips on snowshoeing and dealing with winter
http://sports.groups.yahoo.com/group/DenverTrailRunners/message/810
http://sports.groups.yahoo.com/group/DenverTrailRunners/message/820

Bring snowshoes: I have a couple of extra pairs. Please reserve them
in advance by sending me a message, runuphillracing@.... If
anyone else has extras they can bring, please let me know. Poles are
optional. Most of us won't be using them, but you are welcome to bring
them.

Or, you can rent snowshoes at many running, outdoor, and ski rental
stores. Please check with them in advance. Some possible rental places:
Runners Roost, Lakewood
Bent Gate, Golden
REI
Breeze Ski Rentals, not far from the Cold Spring lot in Lakewood.

All are welcome. Please share this with and invite others.