Collegiate Outdoor Leadership Program members and COLP faculty advisor Chris McCart, participated in the annual Snowshoe and Cross-Country Ski event Jan. 7 at Big Hill Trails outside of Spearfish to bring the community together and cure cabin fever.

McCart said she wanted COLP students to enhance their leadership skills and get involved with the community so she offered extra credit to those who attended this event. She suggested people should be more exposed to nature to feel rejuvenated.

About eight people went on the hike including the leaders. Participants chose between snowshoes or skis, and each choice had its own separate trail. The attendees rented their show shoes or skis, signed a waver and chose their hike’s duration.

Recent Black Hills State University graduate Ross Edison said, “I really like to cross-country ski but I have never been show shoeing and I’m glad COLP offers the opportunity to rent show shoes and go on a guided hike.”

New student Dave Cowley transferred to BHSU from Vermont and is a new member of COLP. He said he enjoys the experience and the leadership-building opportunities the organization has to offer. He led a hike on the snowshoe trail and said he was glad to be out in nature.

Details about their next event, a Wilderness First Aid class can be found on www.bhsu.edu/COLP. BHSU students and Spearfish community members are encouraged to come to future events.