GW: Seems like a lot of money, but anyone making their own snowshoes, would have a keepsake.
Sleepy Hollow State Park(Clinton County) will offer several two-day snowshoe-building classes this winter, and registration is available now. Participants will learn to weave a pair of traditional wooden snowshoes similar to those made by Native Americans for generations. Below is the class schedule:
Friday, Dec. 5: 5-9 p.m. (Part 1)
Saturday, Dec. 6: 9 a.m.-1 p.m. (Part 2)
Friday, Jan. 9: 5-9 p.m. (Part 1)
Saturday, Jan. 10: 9 a.m.-1p.m. (Part 2)
Friday, Jan. 23: 5-9 p.m. (Part 1)
Saturday, Jan. 24: 9 a.m.-1 p.m. (Part 2)
Friday, Feb. 13: 5-9 p.m. (Part 1)
Saturday, Feb. 14: 9 a.m.-1 p.m. (Part 2)
The cost for making a pair of snowshoes is $170 and includes the pre-formed wooden frames, lacing, high-quality bindings and personal instruction. Sealing is required before the snowshoes can be used. Sealing will not be included in the cost of the class, but the instructor will demonstrate the sealing process. Classes are designed to be fun, informative and interesting. Because this is an activity that requires concentration over long periods of time, it is recommended for ages 16 and older.
These handmade snowshoes can be used for hiking throughout the winter, given as gifts or used as a home decoration. Snowshoeing is an easy, inexpensive way to get outside and burn some calories during the winter months.
All classes are held at Sleepy Hollow State Park’s headquarters, located at 7835 E. Price Road in Laingsburg. Please note that each class is split into a two-day session, Friday and Saturday.
Class size is limited to a maximum of eight participants, and early registration is required to ensure a spot in the class. To register, please call Sleepy Hollow State Park at 517-651-6217 or email Denise Smith at smithd8@michigan.gov.
A Recreation Passport is required for any motor vehicle entering a Michigan state park, boat launch, state forest campground or nonmotorized state trailhead parking. Residents can purchase the Passport for just $11 ($5 for motorcycles) at the time of Michigan license plate renewal through Secretary of State. Forgot to check “YES” during renewal? Residents and nonresidents can purchase a Recreation Passport window sticker during regular business hours at state parks. Learn more about how the Recreation Passport supports state parks and local outdoor recreation opportunities at www.michigan.gov/recreationpassport.
