Visit

The Clark’s campus is the ideal setting for a snowshoe adventure! Visit the equipment rack near the Manton Research Center and borrow a pair of snowshoes to discover the beauty of our campus in winter. Take pictures, share them with #clarkart, and leave us a note in the snowshoe journal (look inside the desk on the side of the rack) to tell us about your snow trek!
 
A few suggestions to prepare for your journey:

• Snowshoeing is an enjoyable, but physically demanding, activity. Make certain that you are in good physical condition and able to complete your full route.
• For your safety: dress for winter weather conditions, carry a water bottle and/or snacks, take a phone with you, and take a copy of our trail map. Always hike with a companion.
• In an emergency, call the Clark’s Security Office at 413 458 0412.
• Help us maintain this activity: if any equipment looks damaged, notify the Clark’s staff and do not use it.
• Please rehang your equipment when finished using it.
• Children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult.

 
Equipment is made available for use at your own risk. The Clark’s grounds are home to a number of wild animals—don’t attempt to touch them. For additional details, see the legal disclaimer.

1. Staying upright: If snowshoeing on packed snow, walk with a wider stance than you usually would to allow room for your wide snowshoes. When snowshoeing on deep powder, lift your knees higher than you normally would to prevent tripping.

2. Turning: Making a turn requires you to be mindful of your big snowshoes. To avoid tripping, lift your knee high before turning your foot in the direction you'd like to go.

3. Traversing, or “side-hilling”: You can avoid steep ascents and descents and rugged terrain by working your way back and forth across the side of a hill. To keep your balance, dig the uphill-facing side of the snowshoes into the snow and keep your weight on the uphill foot.