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Snow Science & Social Snowshoe Hike

February 14 @ 10:00 am - 12:00 pm

Join SJMA and Mountain Studies Institute to learn about forest ecology, watersheds, climate change, and the future of snowpack in the San Juans by digging snow pits and taking a winter interpretive hike. Snowshoes will be provided if necessary. Back by popular demand, these snowshoe hikes are a great opportunity to explore the snowy landscape and learn more about winter in the San Juans.

Throughout the winter, our education team will host snowshoe interpretive hikes from 10am – 12pm, then welcome you back to parking area for a bonfire, hot drinks, and good conversation.

These popular events are FREE to the public, but REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED.

DATE

February 14th, 2026

TIME

9:30 am: SJMA staff arrive
10:00 am- 12:00 pm: Winter interpretive hike
12:00 pm: Social fun with a hot beverage, bonfire, and good company. Bring-your-own picnic if you’d like!

WHERE

SJMA’s mobile basecamp at Andrews Lake Winter Parking Lot

DETAILS

  • If needed, SJMA will provide snowshoes for your use (when registering make sure to include your shoe size, height and weight).
  • Participants must be prepared to hike up to 2 miles in the snow at ~10,000 ft of elevation.
  • Participants encouraged to bring an avy shovel (or any compact shovel) for digging snow pits. SJMA can provide avy shovels, but it’s more fun if everyone can get their hand on a shovel.
  • Wear warm clothes and boots to spend the afternoon in the snow.

COST

Free, $10 donations very appreciated

For more information, check out our Information and Activity Guide: Climate Change, Forest Health and the Future of Snow in the San Juan Mountains.

A huge thank you to our partner, Mountain Studies Institute!

Details