For many people, the winter season may seem to drag on after the holidays. Luckily, the Adventures Programs department of the Northwest Adventure Center, a division of MWR, can rescue both thrill seekers and bored families from the doldrums of January and February.

"The snowshoeing trips are becoming more popular. We have one heading to Paradise at Mount Rainier, and another is an evening moonlight trek along Gold Creek Pond and the Snoqualmie Pass," said Rick Kivett, Adventure Program manager.

In January, activities span from a family-oriented tubing trip at the Summit at Snoqualmie to the practical Winter Survival Class, which is offered to those over age 12 and teaches basics such as how to build snow shelters and make a fire.

For those unfamiliar with skis and boards, there are trips with horseback riding on the outskirts of Mount Rainier National Park, outings to the Seattle Aquarium and indoor rock climbing in Olympia.

For those who are feeling brave, the options are plentiful. Start with physically demanding ice climbing on Mount Baker, a ski trip to Crystal Mountain or something new.

"This year we added a new trip - snowmobiling in the Cascades," said Kivett. "It's definitely going to be fun."

In general, prices range from $20 for the Bavarian Ice Fest in Leavenworth to $150 for the snowmobiling trip. Ski lift tickets are available for purchase at www.fortlewismwr.com/nac.htm with a discounted military rate through the Military Merits organization, which is affiliated with ITT.

The Outdoor Recreation center can help if you're looking to head outside but lack the equipment. The Ski Shop, located with the Adventure Center in Building 8050 on North Fort Lewis, offers snowboards, downhill or cross-country skis and snowshoes. Equipment rentals are available by the day, weekend or week. The Ski Shop also can perform maintenance on equipment from waxing boards to repairing damaged skis and boards.

The center is open seven days a week from 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. For questions, call the program desk at (253) 967-6263. To see a detailed schedule of all upcoming events, visit www.fortlewismwr.com/adventureprograms.