VERMONT — The Vermont Governor’s Council on Physical Fitness and Sports is urging young Vermonters — and the young at heart — to try free Nordic (cross-country) skiing and snowshoeing this coming Saturday, Jan. 12, and to maintain healthful amounts of physical activities throughout the winter season.
Dubbed “Winter Trails Day,” Vermonters will have the opportunity to Nordic ski or snowshoe for free at a half-dozen locations across Vermont, including Blueberry Hill in Goshen and Rikert Nordic Center in Ripton. Most participating areas will offer free trail passes and rentals in the afternoon.  
“It’s beneficial for Vermonters’ health and overall well-being to be physically active year-round and Vermont is a prime winter playground for residents and visitors who aim to learn a snowsport,” Vermont Dept. of Tourism and Marketing Commissioner Megan Smith said. “Also, as a parent and former fitness instructor, I’m delighted that the Council encourages residents of all ages to take advantage of our state’s outdoor opportunities for fun and fitness.”??Winter Trails Day is a national program endorsed by the council that encourages children and adults to discover the great fitness and social benefits of these fun, easy-to-learn winter sports. 
The event is also the kickoff of season-long campaign the council has launched to encourage more Vermonters to be active in winter.  The council will soon announce additional initiatives and opportunities for Vermonters to get outside and enjoy the abundance and beauty of winter in its original state.
Vermonters can participate in Winter Trails Day events at:
•  Blueberry Hill, Goshen
•  Grafton Ponds Outdoor Center, Grafton
•  Ole’s Cross Country Center, Waitsfield
•  Rikert Nordic Center, Ripton
•  Smugglers’ Notch Resort, Jeffersonville
•  Strafford Nordic Center, Strafford
The inventory of snowshoes, skis and lesson space is limited. Interested participants are urged to contact participating ski areas to verify details and availability. For more information on Winter Trails Day and contact information for participating ski areas, visit www.snowlink.com/wintertrails.aspx.