Free Snowshoe Tours Offered at Leavenworth National Fish Hatchery

Free guided snowshoe tours are provided at Leavenworth National Fish Hatchery, all equipment provided. From Dec. 15 through Jan. 27, tours are at 1 p.m. on Fridays and on Saturdays at 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. 

“Last year, 290 people snowshoed with us,” said Julia Pinnix, Information and Education Manager. Tours are led by hatchery staff, biologist from the Mid-Columbia Fish & Wildlife Conservation Office, and volunteers. The tours explore the Icicle Creek Nature Trail, a 1-mile loop on the hatchery grounds.

Leavenworth Winter Sports Club has a permit to groom cross-country ski trails at the hatchery, providing an active winter outlet for visitors and local residents. The trail for snowshoe tours skirts the edge of the ski area, following Icicle Creek’s curves.

“We see otter tracks, bald eagles, and sometimes other wildlife,” Julia said. Participants learn about the local ecology as they walk.

Call ahead to reserve space on a tour: 509-548-2915. The tour schedule and tips for what to wear are found on the hatchery’s website, www.fws.gov/leavenworthfisheriescomplex/LeavenworthNFH/LNFHVisit.cfm.

The mission of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is working with others to conserve, protect and enhance fish, wildlife, plants and their habitats for the continuing benefit of the American people. We are both a leader and trusted partner in fish and wildlife conservation, known for our scientific excellence, stewardship of lands and natural resources, dedicated professionals and commitment to public service. For more information on our work and the people who make it happen, visit www.fws.gov” www.fw.