BOISE, Idaho — Cross-country skiers and snow enthusiasts can rejoice this new year because Idaho Park N' Ski locations and state parks will be free this weekend.
The Free Winter Access Day, formally known as Free Ski Day, is hosted on Jan. 6 by the Idaho Department of Parks and Recreation (IDPR), which allows the public to access Idaho Park N' Ski locations and state parks for free.
Park N' Ski
The Park N' Ski program encompasses 14 areas throughout Idaho, offering skiers over 180 miles of groomed trails. Residents must purchase a pass to access the paths, but a permit isn't required with Free Winter Access Day.
IDPR said all locations will be available except for the Palouse Divide, which will be hosted on Jan. 13.
For further information on locations, visit the IDPR's website.
Idaho State Parks
Priest Lake State Park
The Priest Lake State Park in Coolin, Idaho, will host their event from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and provide a free cross-country ski lesson and a guided snow hike, said IDPR.
For further information call park officials at (208) 443-2200.
Ponderosa State Park
The Ponderosa State Park in McCall, Idaho, will waive their Free Winter Access Day entrance fee, said IDPR.
Officials said the park will be offering the public a free skiing lesson with rentals, but residents need to pre-register to participate. They will also be offering cross-country and snowshoeing lessons.
For further information, visit the park's website.
Harriman State Park
The Harriman State Park in Island Park, Idaho, will waive their entrance fee for residents from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Park officials said for further information, visit their Facebook page.
Castle Rocks State Park
The Castle Rocks State Park in Almo, Idaho, will host a guided hike or snowshoe hike from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.
Officials said residents wanting to participate need to be at the Visitors Center at 9 a.m., and they can bring their own snowshoes or rent some.
For further information visit the Castle Rocks State Park's website.
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