Sixteen active women spent their final day in the snow on Saturday, March 1 on snow shoes and cross country skies on the groomed and tracked trails of China Ridge.
Fresh deep snow, -10 degree weather and a light snowfall did not stop these snow bunnies from enjoying a day being healthy a day including healthy snacks around a warm fire in the backcountry.
With support and funding from the Province of BC, ViaSport BC, Town of Princeton Parks, Recreation and Culture Department, China Ridge Trails and a nominal registration fee; the Active Winter Womens program had 35 ladies take part since November 2013. This program encouraged women to learn two new winter sports; snow shoeing and cross country skiing; so they can be active during Princeton’s winter months for years to come.
“I am not good at getting out on my own so the program has been excellent for me. Kelley, our progam leader, looked after us so well; providing some education about being in the bush as well as getting to try cross country skiing and my favorite, snowshoeing…the snacks were the best…” writes Virgina Brock, participant, “thanks for all your efforts. They really were appreciated.”
This program was designed to give women the tools to become comfortable and active in our local outdoor wilderness, participating in two life long winter sport opportunities. “Many of the women have since purchased their own equipment, have organized additional outtings on their own with fellow participants and have introduced the sport to their families,” said Nadine McEwen, recreation coordinator, “this was our goal, to see women become comfortable in Princeton’s backcountry on their own.”
