Sleepy Hollow State Park offers snowshoe building classes in December and January

Sleepy Hollow State Park will offer several two-day snowshoe building classes in December and January. Participants will learn how to weave a pair of traditional wooden snowshoes similar to the ones Native Americans made for generations.

The cost for making a pair of snowshoes is $170, and includes the pre-formed wooden frames, lacing, high-quality bindings and personal instruction. Classes are designed to be fun, informative and interesting. Because this is an activity that requires concentration over long periods of time, it is recommended for ages 16 and older.

The handmade snowshoes participants will produce can be used for hiking throughout the winter, given as holiday gifts, or used as a home decoration. Snowshoeing is an easy, inexpensive way to get outdoors and burn some calories during the winter months.

The classes will be held at Sleepy Hollow State Park’s headquarters, located at 7835 E. Price Road, Laingsburg (Shiawassee County). Please note the classes are split over two days.

Classes are scheduled for:

• Friday, Dec. 7: 5 to 9 p.m. (Part 1)
• Saturday, Dec. 8: 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. (Part 2)

• Friday, Jan. 11: 5 to 9 p.m. (Part 1)
• Saturday, Jan. 12: 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. (Part 2)

• Friday, Jan. 25: 5 to 9 p.m. (Part 1)
• Saturday, Jan. 26: 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. (Part 2)

Class size is limited to a maximum of eight participants; reservations are required. To make a reservation, call Sleepy Hollow State Park at 517-651-6217, or email Denise Smith at smithd8@michigan.gov. For more information about Sleepy Hollow State Park, including a map and directions, visit www.michigan.gov/sleepyhollow.