Snowshoe Rental
What to know before you rent
We offer four sizes of snowshoes that are based on weight:
- Youth: 40-90 lbs
- Size 22: 80-150 lbs
- Size 25: 120-175 lbs
- Size 30: 175-250 lbs
You do not need to know specific shoe size, but rather the weight of the individual who will be wearing them.
- Bindings are adjustable and you can wear any type of winter boot with the snowshoes. We suggest something waterproof.
- Ask permission before trespassing on private property.
- Respect the environment by not breaking and bashing your way through the brush and trees.
- Be observant! Try to see and hear the things around you in the woods. Don’t ruin the experience for others by making a lot of noise.
- Don’t abuse snowshoes! Only use these snowshoes when there is at least 4 inches of snow. Don’t walk on rocks, gravel or sidewalks. Don’t jump off rocks or logs—you might snap or crack the frame of your snowshoes.
- You are responsible for bringing the snowshoes back in good condition—without any damage or cracking, and any debris must be washed off. You will be charged an additional $5 for cleaning plus the cost of any repairs if required.
Renting Snowshoes from Clay County Conservation
We know renting new winter equipment can be nerve wracking. Where do you even begin?! Look no further! We've got your answers.
A great place to start is with what you should you wear. Dress in (non-cotton) layers: As always when exercising outdoors, dress in layers so you can adjust your clothing to suit your activity level and the weather. Avoid cotton because it can get soaked and chill you, and instead choose synthetics or wool styles because they wick moisture and retain warmth even when wet.
Where to rent snowshoes
Snowshoe rentals are available at the Clay County Conservation Board office. 420 10th Ave SE. Clay County Conservation office- South of the high school. The office is the first gravel road instead of the last into Oneota. The Office is in the brown shed. Go on the first gravel road to get to the Conservation office.
*Snowshoes will only be rented if there is at least 4 inches of snow on the ground. Equipment rentals must be returned during normal hours of operation. Leaving equipment unattended outside at the pickup/drop-off location is not allowed.
Clay County Conservation Hours of Operation | Monday-Friday, 7:00am-3:00pm
For more information, or to reserve your snowshoes, call: (712) 262-2187.
Where to Go
Snowshoeing can be enjoyed by anyone just about anywhere in Clay County.
Recommended Trails
- Oneota Park: Oneota Park (located off 10th Ave. SE, south of the high school).
- Stubb Johnson Family Equestrian Area: Located 1 mile west of the town of Spencer along the Little Sioux River on 360th Street.
- Schmerse Wildlife Area: 2535 280th St Fostoria
- Kindlespire Complex: 485th St Sioux Rapids
- Bertram Reservation: 4955 140th Ave Peterson
- Scharnberg Park walking trail around the pond: 345th St Everly
Fun things to do while snowshoeing
- Look for wildlife tracks.
- Study different kinds of tree buds.
- Listen and watch for birds.
- Make your own unique tracks and trails and have someone else “track” you.
- Snowshoe by moonlight and look for different constellations in the sky.
- Stop for a snowball fight or make a snowman along the trail.
- Go on a winter scavenger hunt. Make a list before you head out on the trail and see how long it takes to find everything.
- Try playing familiar games while on your snowshoes: tag, hide-and seek, follow-the-leader, or even snowshoe softball.
