Popular Snowshoe Lacing Class Is Being Offered Again In Minnesota

If you've never gone snowshoeing in Minnesota, you're missing out on quite an experience that offers several benefits.

Snowshoeing offers a wide range of physical and mental health benefits, including a full-body, low-impact workout, high calorie expenditure, and improved mental well-being through outdoor exposure. It is also highly accessible, with minimal required skills and equipment.

Plus, when you snowshoe in Minnesota, you also get the unique opportunity to explore the state's natural beauty during the winter. Now, the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources is providing an opportunity to make your own snowshoes and learn how to lace them.

Get our free mobile app

Snowshoe Making, Lacing Class To Return To Lac qui Parle State Park

On Saturday, February 28, and Sunday, March 1, the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources is offering the opportunity to learn the art of traditional snowshoe lacing. The two-day class will be held at Lac qui Parle State Park in Watson, Minnesota.

The Saturday class will run from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., and the Sunday class will run from 10 a.m. until the snowshoes are complete, or until 3 p.m. The class will be held at the Lac qui Parle State Park education room at 14047 20th St. NW in Watson.

The building is outside of the park, so those registered for the class will not need a state park vehicle permit to attend. However, if participants want to visit more of the park outside of class, a vehicle permit will be required.

At this event, the DNR will have a seasoned snowshoe lacing volunteer who will instruct the class, and other volunteers will be on hand to help. Even better, each participant will keep the pair of snowshoes they make.

Don't wait long to register, because the class is limited to 20 participants. The recommended age is 12 or older. Coffee and light snacks will be provided during the class, but participants are encouraged to bring their own lunch.

The public can register or get more information by calling Lac qui Parle State Park at 320-435-4033 from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday. The registration deadline is 4 p.m. on Thursday, February 5.

SEE NOW: Online Searches That Could Land Minnesotans On Government Watchlists

“This class offers a wonderful, hands-on opportunity to take part in a traditional artform,” said Terri Dinesen, Lac qui Parle State Park supervisor. “Whether used as décor or to walk in the snow, the snowshoes will serve as beautiful heirlooms.”

It's important to note that while the class itself is free, participants will need to purchase a $160 Ojibwe snowshoe kit at the time of registration. The kits will be ordered by DNR staff via Minnesota-based Northern Toboggan Co. and distributed at the class.