1. access – the ability to go deep into the woods which are normally impassable with thick brush

2. fresh air – clears my foggy brain

3. connection to the past – a mode of transportation used for centuries by people/cultures all over the world

4. one with the forest – making my own cool tracks next to the wonderful variety of animal prints

5. sounds – not only the wonderful soft crunching of the snowshoes, but the chance to stop and listen to winter

6. exercise – a better workout than just hiking

7. dogwalk – and very challenging for the dog to keep up w/you bobbing up and down through the snow

8. instant ability – easier than walking as it provides extra balance, practically no coordination required

9. ageless – you can snowshoe at any age; recently enjoyed a mini outing with my young fit mom!

10. portability – throw them in the back of the car, tote them easily for a mile or two, then slip them on in 30 seconds

11. décor – authentic snowshoes look great on a cabin wall; we purchased ours from Bailey-Greene Company in Waldoboro, ME

12. after dark – like skating (and almost anything), snowshoeing is magical at night… especially under a full moon