Always wanted to try one of those not-too-fast, probably-won't-break-a-leg winter sports, but couldn't get past the cost of equipment? Cheap Funsters, this weekend's for you.

Separate events at Snoqualmie Pass and Leavenworth offer free samples of snowshoeing and cross-country skiing, respectively — meaning no charge for sampling the sport, including equipment.

At Snoqualmie, celebrate national Winter Trails Day on Saturday with The Mountaineers outdoors club.

Experts will be on hand to lead short snowshoe tours every 20 minutes and offer mini-clinics, but you may also opt to explore the snow on your own. A snowman-building contest is planned, and hot chocolate will be available.

If skinny skis are more your ideal, head for the Icicle River Trail on the edge of Leavenworth, where they're celebrating Ski for Health Day on Sunday.

Local outfitters, Sleeping Lady Mountain Resort and the Northwest Mountain School are teaming up to offer free equipment rentals, lessons, trail passes and refreshments. This is just a sampling, so free rentals are limited to 30 minutes (bring a driver's license).

• Winter Trails Day with The Mountaineers, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday, The Mountaineers Snoqualmie Campus (take Exit 53 at Snoqualmie Pass, turn left on to main side road, go toward Summit Central Ski Area and look for the signs). www.mountaineers.org.

• Ski for Health Day at Leavenworth, noon-3 p.m. Sunday, Icicle River Trail, 7505 Cyo Road, Leavenworth (next to Sleeping Lady resort); 509-548-5477 or www.SkiLeavenworth.com.

— Brian J. Cantwell, Seattle Times travel staff