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Suit Up and Make the Most of Winter with Snowshoe Hikes at Grandfather Mountain

By Shannon Cuthrell

Ever wanted to try snowshoe hikes?

For those of you still yearning for outdoor adventure in the cold winter months, Grandfather Mountain State Park has a fun idea for your snowy, otherwise dreary days.

Snowshoe hikes at Grandfather Mountain State Park. Photo provided by Park Ranger Andy Sicard.
Snowshoe hikes at Grandfather Mountain State Park. Photo provided by Park Ranger Andy Sicard.

Free of charge and open to anyone, snowshoe hikes at GMSP offer nature lovers a different kind of winter weather experience than traditional skiing or snowboarding.

Upcoming hikes begin at 2 p.m.  on Feb. 12-13, 26-27, all lasting between two and two-and-a-half hours and starting at Boone Fork Parking Lot, just north of the 300 milepost on the Blue Ridge Parkway.

Snowshoe Hikes

GMSP Ranger Andy Sicard said hikers should arrive on time, as there will be a limited number of snowshoes available, given out on a first come, first served basis.

Sicard offered some tips to prepare for snowshoeing.

“First, dress appropriately for the weather conditions where you will be hiking,” he said.

He recommended a synthetic base layer, then a layer of warmth like fleece and finally a layer for wind and water proofing.

“Wear a sturdy soled shoe that’s warm and waterproof if possible,” he said.

Hikers should bring with them water, snacks and some kind of emergency or first aid kit, Sicard noted. Rangers will join alongside hikers, confirming the snowshoe equipment fits properly.

“If you can walk, you can snowshoe,” said Sicard. “It’s a great way to travel around in the winter.”

Grab your coat, pack your gear and get everyone together for an upcoming snowshoe hike at Grandfather Mountain State Park and make the most of winter!

For more information about the hikes, contact Sicard by phone at 828-963-9522 or by email grandfather.mountain@ncparks.gov.

To read more details about upcoming hikes at the park, you can also visit http://www.ncparks.gov/grandfather-mountain-state-park/events-and-programs/snowshoeing-2.