Here's an invitation to try snowshoeing and cross-country skiing on Jan. 10 -- for free.

It's being extended to adults and children throughout the country by SnowSports Industries America, the Cross Country Ski Areas Association and the American Hiking Society.

More than 80 venues, including Seven Springs, hosted more than 11,000 adults and children in the annual Winter Trails program last year, said Mary Jo Tarallo, SIA's director of education. The event also was held at nordic centers and federal forest and park land.

Ms. Tarallo said a survey of Winter Trails participants showed it was the first time they had tried snowshoeing and/or cross country skiing and that some had done it again.

For more information, go to www.snowsports.org or call 1-703-556-9020. For more information on snowshoeing at Seven Springs, go to www.7springs.com or call 1-800-452-2223.