OTHER WINTER INACTIVITIES… 1/9/06
When the tough get going, the tough usually get going. When the inactive get going they really don’t, it just looks like it.

If sorting through your fishing gear does not trip your trigger as a winter pastime then this semi-active north woods trail guide has a few other activity suggestions. Most will require a boatload of cash.

First: Snow shoeing - you’ll need a good quality pair of insulated boots and a pair of snowshoes with bindings. You'll also need several designer outfits for you have to loo good out there amoung the birch trees. Next you’ll need to talk four or five other people into going with you. Not for safety sake, but it’s really boring out there by yourself, especially if you are a boring person.
Skill requirements – none, even a frog could snow shoe.

Second: Cross country skiing- compared to down hill skiing, even my brother can afford it. The cost of equipment is a 10th. There are no trail fees except if you run a state trail, then all you need is a proof of residence. You’ll need to have been on a fitness program for at least 7 months prior to skiing or you will not be able to move for two weeks afterward.

Lastly: Snowmobiling - Bring your Visa card that has a $45,000 limit. First you’ll need two snowmobiles at $6,000 each, a $1,500 trailer to haul them around to trails that have snow, or to the repair shop; accidents do happen. Of course you’ll need an SUV with 4 wheel drive so add another $30,000. Then there are small things like gas at $2.50 per gallon, motel rooms, meals, and bar tabs out on the trail. Better bring your wife’s Visa card as well.

I’m headed back to the shed to sort through my fishing tackle boxes