McLean, VA – Winter Trails is scheduled for this Saturday at over 80 locations across the U.S., offering children and adults new to snow sports a chance to try snowshoeing and/or cross country skiing for free. There is no charge for the use of equipment or trails. Most locations offer snowshoeing and cross country skiing, while some only offer snowshoeing. Current alpine skiers and snowboarders are also encouraged to try an alternative snow sport.nWinter Trails locations, hours and offerings are posted at www.WinterTrails.org as they are announced. Venues include alpine ski resorts, Nordic centers, state parks, National Park Service facilities and U.S. Forest Service land. Details accompany each event’s listing on the Winter Trails website. Registration is also available on-site at each location.

While most events take place on the “official date” for Winter Trails this Saturday, some are held on alternative dates. One of the largest – at Estes Park, Colo. – is being held a week later on Jan. 15 and is part of the Estes Park Winter Festival.

“Snowshoeing and cross country skiing are winter outdoor activities that can be enjoyed by individuals, groups of friends and family members,” said Reese Brown, a Winter Trails organizer. “They are affordable, easy to learn and provide moderate to vigorous exercise, depending on an individual’s effort. With obesity rates in the U.S. at an all time high, Winter Trails can introduce active and not so active children and adults to sports that provide winter outdoor recreation.”