With new reports of a La Niña forecast for Southern Oregon, things are looking good for winter sport enthusiasts (and farmers, of course). Snowshoeing is an inexpensive way to get out into the winter wilderness and avoid the crowds at the ski hill. Make sure to get acquainted with the equipment you’ll be using beforehand. Having a comfortable, tight-fitting pair of snowshoes is invaluable, as are ski poles and several layers of clothing to help regulate fluctuating body temperatures. There are dozens of places you can escape to in the area – all it takes is a bit of exploring and a sense of adventure.

Mount Ashland: Our local ski mountain offers tons of options for snowshoeing.  For beginners, the best option is to head out from the Mt. Ashland Parking lot and follow the road toward the Grouse Gap shelter. Road NF-200 is just a few feet from the entrance to the ski lodge. Take the trail downhill to the east for several miles until it reaches Bull Gap. You will be rewarded with beautiful views of Pilot Rock and Mt. Shasta.

Crater Lake: It’s not a bucket list—it’s our back yard. Starting November 28th and going through May 1, the park will be offering free hikes and free snowshoe rentals. Space is limited and advanced reservations are required. There are also plenty of options if you’re wanting to head out on a solo hike, just be sure to call the park visitor center for the latest conditions, including avalanche danger. 541-594-3100

The Greensprings Mountain Loop Trail: This short and scenic 2.2 mile loop provides excellent views across the southern Rogue Valley. Halfway along you’ll find yourself in some of the last old-growth trees in the area. Here you’ll see a beautiful view of Mt. Ashland as well as the chance to spot raptors circling overhead. From I-5 take exit 14 and go east on Green Springs Highway for 15 miles. Turn left at the Green Springs summit and turn left again on BLM road 39-3E-32. Continue until you come to a small parking lot on the left.

Fish Lake: The Fish Lake Campground provides easy access for numerous trails that can be enjoyed in the wintertime, such as the PCT, Brown Mountain, Fish Lake, Sky Lakes Wilderness, and Mt. McLaughlin trail systems. Simply take Highway 62 towards White City and turn east onto Highway 140 for 30 miles to the Fish Lake access road on the right.