Winter Trails Day Becomes Winter Trails Month

SnowSports Industries America (SIA), is extending its annual Winter Trails event from a one-day to a month-long event this coming January to ensure people have ample opportunities to discover snowshoeing and cross country skiing.

The new month-long format will allow host sites to customize Winter Trails offerings to their facility and regional happenings. Events will include special offers on trail passes, rentals and mini lessons (cross country lessons only) and will vary site to site from free to reduced package pricing. Individual event details may be found at WinterTrails.org.

"This is a very exciting time for Winter Trails,” said Reese Brown, SIA Nordic Director. "By extending the event format to encompass an entire month, each location can get more creative with their offerings and provide a more in-depth experience to the consumer and local community."

Moving away from the one-day format in 2016 will allow venues to choose any date, time and format during the month of January including afternoons, single day, week or month-long programs. Also new for 2016, host facilities will be allowed to charge a nominal fee for events – a needed change from the free only events of the past. Changes to the program were becoming necessary due to demanding trade show travel schedules and host sites requesting the flexibility to customize events.

Additionally, more emphasis will be placed on individual resort “call-to-action” with consumers, such as a coupon to return, discount on lesson package and incentives to bring a small group.

With over 100 locations around the country and an estimated 11,000 new enthusiasts trying cross-country skiing and snowshoeing each year through Winter Trails, it’s a perfect way to begin building a love of snow sports. The event offers children and adults an opportunity to try snowshoeing and/or cross country skiing at venues throughout North America. Winter Trails is easy to participate in, super fun and a great activity to do with friends or family while getting some outdoor winter exercise.

Once people try it and have fun, it’s simple to return back to the same location. Most event sites operate daily with rentals and instructors to make sure everyone learns proper technique and has a great time.

Winter Trails locations, hours and offerings are posted at WinterTrails.org and updated as they are announced. Venues include alpine resorts, Nordic centers, state parks, National Park Service and U.S. Forest Service land. Details accompany each event’s listing on the Winter Trails website. Advanced registration is suggested, but many sites offer on-site registration. Check the location listing for specific information.