Feather Publishing

3/8/2010

Join a ranger on Saturday, March 13 for a special snowshoe walk at the Manzanita Lake area near the north entrance of Lassen Volcanic NationalPark. “We are committed to First Lady Michelle Obama’s Let’s Move Campaign to increase daily exercise for a healthier tomorrow. The two programs offered at Manzanita Lake will be an opportunity for visitors to increase physical activity and experience the beauty of the park” Stated Superintendent Darlene Koontz.

Snowshoe walks will be offered twice on March 13. Meet the park ranger at the Loomis Ranger Station at 10:30 a.m. or 1:30 p.m. The Loomis Ranger Station is located along the Main Park Road just two miles from the north entrance off of Highway 44. The 1 ½ to 2 hour programs provide a unique look into the mysterious world of winter, and learn how wildlife adapt and survive in this snowy environment. The walks will provide participants with instruction on the proper techniques of snowshoeing, tips on outdoor survival, and safety considerations needed for winter mountain travel.

The walks are open to individuals and families with children age eight and older. For safety reasons, infants and children in carriers are not permitted. Walks vary in route and distance depending on the group, weather, and snow conditions. Snowshoes are provided by the National Park Service for a suggested $1.00 donation for their use and maintenance. Please dress in layers for winter conditions and wear warm boots

Visitors coming to the park should be prepared for winter conditions. Carry extra blankets, food, drinking water, a shovel, and tire chains in your vehicle. Since weather can change quickly at these elevations, be prepared to spend the night in your vehicle, if necessary.

The park is open throughout the winter. The road is plowed to the Manzanita Lake area on the north side and to the Kohm Yah-mah-nee Visitor Center on the south side backcountry permits, weather and road conditions, visit the park website at www.nps.gov/lavo or call the Kohm Yah-mah-nee Visitor Center at (530 595-4480 from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.