Local groups to host several wintry recreational outings

Two conservation organizations, including Friends of Scotchman Peaks Wilderness, plan to offer free winter outings in the region in the weeks ahead.

Two of the guided outings, one relying on cross-country skis and one on snowshoes, will travel separately into the Ross Creek Cedars, a grove of ancient and towering cedars about 29 miles south of Troy.

The first foray into the cedar grove will be Sunday morning, Jan. 19, in a cross-country ski outing co-led by Allie Maloney, western Montana field director for the Montana Wilderness Association. Details and a form to register can be found at www.wildmontana.org/walks.

The second venture into the Ross Creek Cedars will be Feb. 8. The snowshoe hike is sponsored by the Friends of Scotchman Peaks Wilderness.

More information about this outing and others sponsored by the organization can be found at scotchmanpeaks.org.

The Montana Wilderness Association plans to offer a guided snowshoe trip along the historic Callahan Creek trail in Troy on Feb. 8. The association said the two-mile outing is “perfect for families.”

Guides Allie Maloney and Henry Jorden of Friends of Scotchman Peaks will discuss the history of Troy and Callahan Creek.

Snowshoes will be provided for the Callahan Creek outing. To register, go to www.wildmontana.org/walks.

“I’m excited for this year’s Winter Adventures in the Kootenai,” said Maloney. “Exploring Montana in the wintertime is special, and I’m glad that we can give folks the chance to experience our amazing public lands while they’re under the snow.”