BY KAREN BOSSICK

Learn about the special adaptations of plants and wildlife at Craters of the Moon National Monument and Preserve during a ranger-led snowshoe hike there this weekend.

The Wood River Chapter of the Idaho Native Plant Society is organizing the snowshoe adventure to look for animal tracks and more on Saturday, Feb. 22. The trek will take participants into a winter landscape of black and white where deep snow obscures the lava, save for dark jagged rocks protruding here and there.

The trek, for those 10 years and older, will be about 1.5 miles in length. There is no charge, but those who plan to attend should preregister by calling Kristin Fletcher at 208-721-2583.

Meet at 7:15 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 22, at the Hailey Park and Ride lot at the corner of River and Bullion streets to carpool. The group will depart at 7:25 a.m. sharp for Craters, which is east of Carey on Highway 20.

Those who wish to meet at the park, instead, should rendezvous at the monument’s Visitors’ Center at 8:45 a.m.

Snowshoes are necessary and hiking or ski poles are recommended. Bring lunch, water, binoculars, gloves and other winter wear. The Craters Visitors’ Center does have some snowshoes it can loan out but not poles.