I'm a big fan of Litchfield County....so, I was really excited about this DayTrip! I googled "Snowshoes Connecticut" and came up with this fantastic store "Housatonic River Outfitters". It's owned by a man named Harold McMillan who specializes in selling/renting snow shoes and fly fishing equipment. Harold has a really interesting story....he calls himself a former "Wall Street Victim"...who took a weekend trip to Litchfield County...and basically decided to ditch the crazy city life for rural bliss.
Harold found some snowshoes for me and we headed out the Appalachian Trail. We clicked and snapped our way into our footwear...which is now really light...all aluminum and plastic. Forget those big basket weave flippers of the past! Once Harold got me suited up, I said, "What now? Do I just walk around?" And, YES! That's all there is to it! Definitely not as hard as cross country skiing...but, we did use poles...and apparently it is a really great workout. We circled around a big open field...taking in the beautiful crisp, cold weather and appreciating the views all around. It's important to wear sturdy shoes -- of the hiking variety -- and to dress in layers. It's easy to get hot...even in the cold weather. Harold said it's not unusual to see eagles, deer -- even a bear!
Next, we hiked on a trail that ran along the Housatonic River...which was frozen in spots....it looked really, really gorgeous. Harold can rent you snowshoes for about 20-dollars a day....and can point you in the direction of some really amazing trails through the Litchfield Hills. Also, the store offers guided tours with a snowshoe expert (you even get some hot cocoa!)....so, log onto his web site (look for our link) and check out a possible daytrip! It's an amazing part of the state...and a lovely way to actually enjoy the winter.
Take a tip from my friend Harold! Go ahead...get away from it all. For a day, at least!
Have fun.....