BERN TWP., Pa. – The cold and the snow on the ground isn’t slowing everyone down. In fact, it’s getting some people outside in Berks County.

Lisa Gauker, Recreation/Special Events Supervisor with Berks Parks and Recreation, said the county offers a free lending program that lets people borrow snowshoeing equipment for the day.  

The county was awarded a grant in 2023 which allowed it to buy snowshoes and snowshoeing equipment. The county has gotten about 25 pairs of snowshoes within the last three years. 

People interested in borrowing equipment can visit the county’s parks department. People will need to fill out a form and leave a form of collateral with the county. Those borrowing the equipment to go snowshoeing are asked to just use the snowshoes in county parks.

Gauker said snowshoeing is a great introductory winter activity that people can enjoy in the county’s parks.

Kathy Grim, Recreation Program Assistant with Berks County Parks and Recreation, said people of different physical abilities can enjoy snowshoeing.

Berks County Commissioner Christian Leinbach (R) said there is little training or lessons needed to enjoy the activity. He said it is less expensive than skiing or other winter pasttimes.