Snowshoeing

Why we love it: It costs next to nothing to escape the resort crowds and explore the quiet backcountry (rentals run $10 to $15). And we’re not the only ones: Snowshoeing is one of the fastest-growing winter sports.

The benefits: One hour of snowshoeing can burn about 600 calories (more than running at the same pace), and there’s little chance of injury, thanks to the low impact.

Best new gear: The super-sleek Elektra 10 Series by Atlas ($200), a good all-terrain beginners’ option that’s designed specifically for women.

Try it here:  Crater Lake National Park is a snowshoer’s paradise. Take a ranger-led walk―on snowshoes―weekends through April. The tours are free, and so is borrowing snowshoes.

Plan a trip: Check snowshoemag.com for trail recommendations, tips for first-timers, and lists of snowshoe clubs.

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