Although the staff at eSnowshoes.com is based out of Colorado, we are excited to see that the Department of Natural Resources in Michigan is offering ‘Make your own snowshoes‘ classes this winter. We encourage those of you in the area to attend one of these events in hopes that programs like this can be offered nationally.

Here is the official release from The Department of Natural Resources:

Make Your Own Traditional Wooden Snowshoes at Ludington State Park

Contact:  Alan Wernette 231-843-9261
Agency: Natural Resources

Oct. 9, 2009
The Department of Natural Resources invites you to learn to weave a pair of traditional wooden snowshoes at Ludington State Park, using methods similar to those Native Americans used for generations.

“Snowshoes offer form and function; wear them to get through the snow this winter, show them off as a decoration or give them as a handmade gift,” said Ludington State Park Interpreter Alan Wernette, who teaches the snowshoe-making class. “Snowshoeing is an easy way to get outside and burn calories during the winter months and is an inexpensive and fun activity for all ages. If you can walk, you can snowshoe.”

The cost for making a pair of snowshoes ranges from $90 to $160 depending on the style. Cost includes the pre-formed wooden frames, lacing, top-of-the-line binding and personal instructions. Classes are designed to be fun and interesting.

All classes are held at Ludington State Park’s Warming Shelter. Because this activity requires concentration over long periods of time, it is suggested for ages 16 and older. Note that some of the classes are split over two days. Classes are scheduled for:

Oct. 17 and 18, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Oct. 26 and 27, 6:30 to 10 p.m.
Nov. 8, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Nov. 14, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Nov. 23 and 24, 6:30. to 10 p.m.
Dec. 8, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Dec. 20, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Jan. 7 and 8, 6:30 to 10 p.m.
Jan. 25 and 26, 6:30 to 10 p.m.

Class size is limited and reservations are required. To make a reservation, please call Ludington State Park at (231) 843-9261 or e-mail wernettea@michigan.gov.

A motor vehicle permit is required when entering the state park. Permits are $6 for the day or $24 for an annual permit, which is valid at any state park.

For a listing of other events taking place at Michigan state parks and recreation areas, visit www.michigan.gov/dnrcalendar.

The Michigan Department of Natural Resources is committed to the conservation, protection, management, accessible use and enjoyment of the State’s natural resources for current and future generations.

Source: http://www.michigan.gov/dnr/0,1607,7-153-10371_10402-223923–,00.html