Landis Arboretum Announces Winter Events

ESPERANCE, NY (01/28/2011)(readMedia)-- Plenty of snow means plenty of outdoor winter fun for all. Why not get out and enjoy the season at the Landis Arboretum in Esperance, NY? The Arboretum is offering a series of outdoor recreational and educational activities that very well might have you reconsidering what winter is all about.

Backcountry Skiing

February 12, Saturday, 12:00 PM – 3:00 PM

The Arboretum hosts a workshop on backcountry skiing on Saturday, February 12, from 12:00 PM to 3:00 PM. Envision skiing where there are no chair lifts, no groomed trails (and sometime no trails), no trail fees, few (if any) people, and deep, fresh snow. The workshop, led by Jeff Peil, will cover equipment, ski techniques, emergency ski repair, navigation, and trip planning. Then we will go out on the trails and work on the skills that will enable you to ski anywhere you find snow.

Prerequisites: Basic cross country skiing experience. Students should be able to kick and glide and climb and descend gentle hills.

Equipment: Cross country ski equipment of any kind (other than the skating skis used for racing).

Fee: Arboretum and DACC members: Free. Non-members: $10.

Registration: Contact the Arboretum at 518-875-6935 or info@landisarboretum.org.

Second Sunday Snowshoe (with Animal Track and Sign ID)

February 13, Sunday, 12:00 PM – 2:00 PM

Wildlife educator George Steele will be on hand on Sunday, February 13, from 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM to teach us to identify tracks and signs of forest animals. Explore the Arboretum trails on snowshoes and enjoy the quiet beauty of the winter wilderness. Be sure to stop in the old Farm House for a hot beverage and some snacks. Beginner and experienced snowshoers are welcome. Adult and children's snowshoes are available on a first-come, first-served basis. No snow? We'll take a hike. Meet at the Barn.

Members: $5/person, $15/family. Non-members: $10/person, $25/family.

Winter Fun Day: Snowshoe and Sledding

February 26, Saturday, 12:00 PM – 3:00 PM

Don't let Old Man Winter keep you indoors! Join us on Saturday, February 26, from 12:00 PM to 3:00 PM for an invigorating day of winter fun and learn how to "Walk on Snow". We will teach you all the basic skills you need to enjoy the serenity and unique beauty of winter on snowshoes. Adult and children's snowshoes are available, so arrive early if you need them – or bring your own. For even more fun, don't forget to bring your sleds! The Farmhouse will be open to warm up between adventures and to enjoy some hot cocoa, coffee, and home-baked goodies. Please dress appropriately for the weather and wear a sturdy pair of boots. No snow? We'll take a hike.

Members: $5/person, $15/family. Non-members: $10/person, $25/family.

Second Sunday Snowshoe (with Winter Tree and Shrub ID)

March 13, Sunday, 12:00 PM – 3:00 PM

The Arboretum's ISA-certified Arborist Fred Breglia will lead us on Sunday, March 13, from 12:00 PM to 3:00 PM. Using the 548-acre outdoor laboratory of the Landis Arboretum, participants will learn to recognize common trees and shrubs of the Northeast in the winter. No snow? We'll take a hike. Adult and children's snowshoes are available, so arrive early if you need them – or bring your own. Meet at the Barn.

Members: $5/person, $15/family. Non-members: $10/person, $25/family.