FOURTH OF JULY PASS — It's almost time for snow enthusiasts to put their best feet — and best hands — forward.

The 26th annual Panhandle Nordic Ski and Snowshoe Club's 26th annual Best Hand Fun Ski and Snowshoe event will take place Jan. 7 at the Fourth of July Pass Recreation Area.

The Best Hand takes place at the same time as Idaho's Free Ski Day, so the Idaho Department of Parks and Recreation will not be requiring trail and park users to have Park 'n' Ski passes.

"Conditions have been reported to be very good at this point," said Jim McMillen, Panhandle Nordic Ski and Snowshoe Club president. "Come ski or snowshoe with us. When the snow is good, so is the turnout."

Participants will ski the 5-mile loop or snowshoe the Jeanette's Jaunt trail. Volunteers will hand out cards along the route for chances to win prizes from local vendors and club members, including a canoe trip, gourmet dinner and other quality items.

The Panhandle Nordic Club is a collection of cross-country skiers and/or snowshoe enthusiasts. Members meet the first Tuesday of the month November through April and also participate in summer activities such as hiking, biking, canoeing and kayaking. Phil Hough of Scotchman Peaks Wilderness will be the featured speaker at the Jan. 3 meeting.

Check in for the 26th annual Best Hand Fun Ski and Snowshoe event will be from 10:30-11:30 a.m. The event begins at 11:30 and prizes will be awarded at 1:30 p.m. Participants will be able to enjoy light refreshments and warming up by a campfire.

The event will be a go with or without snow.

Suggested donations are $10 for club members, $12 non-members, $5 youths 13 and younger and $25 per family.

Info: www.panhandlenordicclub.com