Though spring semester is well underway, winter seems to have no end in sight.
If you are one of the many people dreaming of adventure, why wait until warmer
weather to get outside and enjoy all Idaho
has to offer? Pocatello contains excellent
opportunities for outdoor recreation,
even in winter!
Pocatello provides easy access to snowshoeing, cross country (XC) skiing, downhill skiing and snowboarding. Pebble Ski
Area is a quick 25 minute drive from the
ISU campus and the surrounding foothills provide prime snowshoeing and XC
skiing opportunities too.
Eizaak Jordan, a senior in political
science, grew up enjoying winter recreational activities. Jordan is an avid
outdoorsman who spends his winters
snowboarding, downhill skiing, XC skiing, snowshoeing and hotspring soaking.
Locally, Jordan enjoys the East Fork Mink
Creek Nordic Center for XC skiing which
is affordable, accessible and has gear
rental available.
Jordan advises students to use exercise in a natural space to help balance
the stressors of school. “You really have
this potent way to address your stress
that is rewarding and fulfilling. It is one of
the best ways you can really manage the
stresses of school.”
Bob Ellis, who has worked with the Outdoor Adventure Center (OAC) on campus
for nearly 17 years is a great resource for
anything recreational. When asked what
his advice is for those that are interested in trying winter activities for the first
time Ellis encourages students to just go
for it. “It’s never too late to have a happy
childhood,” says Ellis, which is a personal
motto of his.
Ellis says you can’t beat the nordic
center as a great place to XC ski. If you’re
looking to save some money, trekking up
Scout Mountain Road leads to plenty of
scenic back country to explore.
Many students are often unaware that
the OAC sets up and maintains four remote yurts during the winter. These are
rented out at a discounted price to ISU
students. Each yurt varies in the level of
effort and experience needed to reach it, meaning that students of all backgrounds can find a trip that is both challenging and enjoyable for them. Ellis advises anyone to give themselves plenty of time to ghetto the yurt regardless.
For a yurt trip Jordan recommends booking for two nights. “That way the effort you put into packing and getting back there is rewarded. You have time to decompress and really enjoy the space.” Here commended snowshoes be prepared but also pack light.
Jordan is also the president of ISU’s Sustainability Club, a group focused on engaging students with their local environment through education and activities. The club is hosting an explorative education day about geothermal features in Idaho on February 19. The event will begin with a talk hosted by geothermal experts speaking on hot springs and related topics followed by a soak at Lava Hot Springs. If you are interested and would like more information, you can reach out to the Sustainability Club by email at ude.usinull@bulcelbaniatsus.
The Outdoor Adventure center is an incredible resource that we have as ISU students. They are always willing to ask questions and get advice. The OAC also has low priced gear rentals for anything you might need to set out on a winter adventure. The OAC is located on the first floor of the Student Union Building.
If you are looking for an excuse to try something new, the OAC has a few winter trips planned as well. February 5 and 6,they are doing an All Abilities Yurt Trip to the Mink Creek yurt. February 12th they are cross country skiing at Craters of the Moon. February 26 and 27, OAC is doing a XC skiing and snowshoeing yurt trip. On March 5, they will be XC skiing and snowshoeing in Harriman State Park. So find an open weekend and join the Outdoor Adventure Center enjoying some winter recreation!