Explore Two Snowshoeing Locations
Snowshoeing is the ultimate winter sport. It can burn up to twice the calories as walking, and it’s something most people can do depending on the terrain and snow conditions. The sport is a great way to get out of the house and enjoy the beauty of winter while fighting seasonal blues in the sun. We explored two locations in the Marshfield area.
[RELATED: Where to ice skate in Marshfield.]
Don’t have any snowshoes? Head to the Sports Den at 1202 S. Cental Ave. to rent some.
Marshfield School Forest
Also a place for fat bikers and skiers, snowshoers will find a varied and scenic terrain at the School Forest, which is maintained by the Marshfield Area Ski Touring Foundation.
The longer groomed bike segment will take the user through a winding trail of trees and young pines, and a section thick with young trees that’s worth a closer look. The highlight will be the view from the top of the ridge near the last mile of the hike. Expect a terrain of small hills with the steepest up and down the ridge.
For a less ambitious walk, try the 2-mile trail. This is a flatter segment through classic woods that loops around in front of the ridge without having to climb it. Budget about half an hour.
The lodge at School Forest is normally open 10:00am-4:00pm Saturdays and Sundays [Note that the lodge is currently closed for the 2019-2020 season for remodeling and will re-open upon completion in February].
Daily trail passes for adults are available for $5.00 at the trailhead (Youth 14-18, $2) and annual memberships can be purchased for $35/individual or $45/family at The Sports Den. Trail conditions are updated on the Facebook page.
McMillan Marsh
The McMillan Marsh Wildlife Area is a diverse landscape of 6,500 acres, operated by the DNR, and located near the headwaters of the Little Eau Pleine River.
There are no designated or groomed trails for snowshoeing, which gives a more authentic snowshoeing experience–and a greater workout. It is free for use. Snowshoers can try the 5.5-mile seasonal bike path, which travels past several bodies of water. The scenery varies from wooded areas to open plains, and there are other walking paths. Expect to see lots of animal tracks along the way, and those who take advantage of the bike trail in the summer will find the marsh magically transformed by snow.
Other Locations to Try: Hamus Nature Preserve, UW Arboretum, Weber Park, Powers Bluff
What’s your favorite place locally to snowshoe?
