The 15th annual Winter Trails day, 9:30 a.m. to 3 p.m., Saturday, Jan. 9, offers children and adults new to snow sports the chance to try snowshoeing for free at Snoqualmie Pass.

In easy-to-learn activities, participants can have fun and discover the health and fitness benefits of snow sports. Equipment is provided free by venue or product suppliers and will offer educational programs, clinics and guided tours.

Winter Trails is a way to learn winter outdoor activities that are fun and easy to do with friends and family. Snowshoeing is similar to walking and has the shortest learning curve. Learning the sport can earn points towards a President’s Challenge for Active Lifestyle Award.

In 2008, more than 11,000 people participated in Winter Trails and together burned 6 million calories per hour. The average person can burn 500 calories per hour by snowshoeing or cross country skiing.

Winter Trails day takes place at the Mountaineers Snoqualmie Campus. To get there, take eastbound I-90 Exit 53 and turn right. Take a left at the ‘T’ intersection and go about 300 yards. Park in the state Department of Transportation lot on the left side of the road, or along the road itself.

For information, call (206) 284-6310, e-mail clubmail@mountaineers.org or visit www.wintertrails.org.