Photo Credit: ISU Outdoor Services
By Pramesh Shah
Staff Writer
Winter in Pocatello brings more than cold temperatures and snow-covered sidewalks, it opens the door to outdoor opportunities that many Idaho State University students embrace throughout the season. From campus-supported outdoor programs to city-organized winter recreation, students have access to activities that make winter both engaging and memorable.
At the center of ISU’s outdoor culture is Outdoor Services, a campus resource that provides students with affordable access to gear, guidance, and adventure. Located in the Student Union Building, Outdoor Services offers rentals for equipment such as snowshoes, skis, winter camping gear, and backpacks, making outdoor recreation more accessible regardless of experience level.
In addition to gear rentals, Idaho State University students are eligible for one free Outdoor Services trip per semester, allowing them to participate in guided winter outings at no additional cost.
“Outdoor Services really lowers the barrier for getting outside,” said John Palmer, a chemistry major. “You don’t need to own expensive gear to try something new, which makes it easier to experience winter in Idaho.”
One of the most distinctive opportunities offered through Outdoor Services is access to the yurt, a backcountry-style shelter that allows students to experience winter overnight trips while maintaining a level of comfort. The yurt is especially popular during weekends and university breaks.
Palmer said he stayed at the Skyline Yurt during Martin Luther King Jr. weekend, calling it one of the highlights of his winter semester.
“The hike in was challenging, especially with snow, but once you reach the yurt, it’s completely worth it,” Palmer said. “The view is unreal. You can see the mountains stretched out, and at night the sky feels massive.”
Palmer added that waking up to snow-covered landscapes and watching the sunrise from the yurt made the experience unforgettable.
“It was quiet in a way you don’t really get on campus,” he said. “Being surrounded by snow and open space gives you a new appreciation for where we live.”
Throughout the winter months, ISU students often visit nearby outdoor areas such as Lower Ross Park Trailhead and Gibson Jack Trailhead, which remain popular for snowshoeing, winter hiking, and scenic walks.
“There’s something refreshing about getting outside even when it’s cold,” said Tyler Strong, a health science major. “Winter feels quieter, and it’s a nice change from being indoors all the time.”
Beyond campus, the city of Pocatello continues to support winter recreation through organized programs. The Pocatello Nordic Center remains active with ski nights, open trail access, and seasonal programming that encourages residents to stay engaged with winter sports.
City-sponsored programs also include guided snowshoeing excursions and group activities that are open to both students and community members. These opportunities provide a safe and welcoming way for participants to explore winter landscapes while learning proper techniques.
“These programs show that winter doesn’t have to mean staying inside,” Palmer said. “There’s a lot to enjoy if you’re willing to try.”
Outdoor Services complements city programs by sharing information, organizing trips, and helping students prepare for winter conditions. Whether it’s renting snowshoes, reserving the yurt, or joining a free semester trip, the program connects students to the region’s outdoor opportunities.
For many students, especially those new to Idaho, the combination of university resources and community programs makes winter recreation more approachable.
“I didn’t realize how much there was to do until I started asking around,” Strong said. “Once you try one winter activity, it makes you want to do more.”
As February settles in, winter remains a defining part of student life at Idaho State University. Whether spending a weekend at the Skyline Yurt, joining a free Outdoor Services trip, skiing at the Nordic Center, or exploring local trails, students have access to experiences that go well beyond the classroom.
With support from both the university and the city, winter recreation in Pocatello continues to offer students opportunities to explore, connect, and make the most of the season.
