January 25, 2004

Central Oregon is paradise when it comes to snowshoeing.

Yesterday, I ventured out to the Edison Snowpark - a popular jump-off point near Mt. Bachelor for snowmobilers, cross country skiers, and snowshoers alike - to try out my new badass MSR snowshoes.

They rock! Compared to Tubbs and Atlas snowshoes, these puppies have unparalleled grip, traction, and maneuvrability. The heel lifter is also a very nice feature, especially when climbing a hill for any length of time.

I was amazed how many hardy Central Oregonians were out on the trail too - despite conditions of driving winds, snow, and strong gusts (with partial sunshine). One party I encountered consisted of four older men, who cheerfully informed me that they were the original creators of this snowshoeing trail - and obviously are still very much enjoying their creation, because they zoomed by me with so much zeal, I didn't even get a chance to catch their names...