The popular ranger-led snowshoe walks will be offered from the Kohm Yah-mah-nee Visitor Center near the park’s southwest entrance beginning Dec. 26.

“Bring your friends and family to the park and experience the fun of snowshoeing through a red fir forest blanketed in deep snow,” said Superintendent Darlene M. Koontz.

“Other activities include cross-country skiing, snowboarding, snow play, sledding, snow camping and relaxing by the fireplace in the visitor center with a cup of hot chocolate after viewing the park film.”

Snowshoe walks will be Saturdays and Sundays at 1:30 p.m. at the Kohm Yah-mah-nee Visitor Center from Dec. 26 through April 3. Programs are 1-1/2 to 2 hours long and open to individuals and families with children 8 and older.  For safety reasons, infants and children in carriers are not permitted.

Rangers provide participants with proper snowshoeing techniques, outdoor survival tips and winter safety information.

Walks vary in route and distance depending on the group, weather and snow conditions. The National Park Service provides snowshoes for the walks. A $1 donation is suggested for their use and maintenance.

Be prepared for winter conditions. Dress in layers and wear warm boots. Carry extra blankets, food, drinking water, a shovel and tire chains in your vehicle.

Since weather can change quickly at elevation, 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. The visitor center is open daily except Dec. 25, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.

For information about ranger-led programs, backcountry permits, and weather and road conditions, visit nps.gov/lavo or call the visitor center at 595-4480.