Not everyone is unhappy when we get some significant snow.

Whenever there is more than four inches of accumulated snow on the ground, the Allen County Parks Department invites you to head out to Fox Island or Metea County Parks for some cross country skiing.

Both parks have a limited number of skis available for rent and sometimes will be open only if you have your own equipment.

Rental prices for both parks are $6.00 per hour for adults and $5.00 per hour for children 12 and under. Limited sizes are available, especially at Metea County Park. Renting ends around 4:00 p.m. each day so that all skiers are accounted for before dark and the park closes.

The sled hill at Metea County Park will also be open from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. on days when there is enough snow.

If you are out at the parks for other reasons while conditions are good for skiing, please do not walk on trails that are designated for skiing. These should be marked appropriately with signage.

To check online for the latest ski conditions at Fox Island or Metea, go to http://allencountyparks.org/parks/cross-country-ski-conditions.