Photo by Tijana 87.
If you grew up in a four-season climate, you probably remember the excitement: Watching the sky on a school night, hoping, then rejoicing when the first few lazy flakes grew into something with serious possibilities. Going to bed with high hopes. Waking the next morning to gather by the radio, on high alert when the DJ read that magical list of schools that were closed, and ecstatic when your own was finally announced.
SNOW DAY!
Outside, all bundled up and booted, grabbing something to slide on and marveling at a world transformed. Tree branches etched against softening white. Gravel and dead grass and pavement buried under pristine, graceful curves. The joy of being the first person to blaze a trail through the perfect white lawn, of knocking the funny white hat off the mailbox. We’d stay outside until we couldn’t feel our toes—marveling, exploring, dreaming up endless ways to have fun in the chilly fluff before we organized a plan: make a slick toboggan run down the back hill. Roll up a snowman. Grab the shovel and build a fort.
Snow days were the best.
That was before we started having to drive cars and fulfill obligations and became aware that snow could be wildly impractical. Many of us learned in adulthood to listen to those winter evening weather forecasts hoping just as devoutly that the storm would be a false alarm as we had once hoped for eight to 12 inches of fresh powder.
Photo by Cristian Tarzi.
Photo by Anita Austvika.
Well, regardless of which outcome we’re hoping for, the sky does what it does. And when what it does is blanket us in white, we have nothing to lose and everything to gain by reclaiming that feeling of enchantment. Even if you have to go someplace, it’ll be a pretty drive. A lightweight leaf blower makes it a snap to get the car cleaned off. And just as soon as you can, get out there and play in the snow. Seriously, folks, there are so many ways to enjoy snow—especially here in our Enchanted Realm—and so many beautiful sights to see; why not rejoice when the snow falls? Grousing about it won’t make it melt any faster, so suit up and relish it.
get ready
The key to winter fun is comfort, and the key to comfort is layering and waterproofing. You’ll have a blast if you’re warm and dry, which isn’t hard to arrange. Layers are everything: a moisture-wicking base layer, an insulating middle layer, a wind/water-resistant outer layer. And take care of your extremities: warm socks, gloves or mittens, hat, neck gaiter, sunglasses/goggles, and sunscreen.
get set
There are still endless ways to have fun in the snow. Let’s take a look at the list:
simple pleasures
• Walking in a winter wonderland (bare ground version): Okay, technically you don’t even need snow for this one, just warm gear. Trails and woodlands are transformed by the simple fact of winter. The bare trees like black lace against the sky. The form of the landscape laid bare as the roots slumber patiently beneath the ground. Take a winter hike and bring your camera along.
• Snow hiking: When the trails are covered in a deep layer of white, straight-up hiking becomes more of a workout. If you don’t have snowshoes, wear knee-high boots fitted out with snow spikes: there are lightweight ones available with grippy steel teeth that will make you as surefooted as you would be on bare ground. These are especially helpful on hills and on well-traveled trails where things can get slick.
• Snowshoeing: With a pair of snowshoes strapped on, you won’t sink into the powder. Lightweight aluminum snowshoes and one or two lightweight poles open up whole new possibilities for exploring. There are nifty neoprene booties designed especially for snowshoeing that slip on over your boots to keep your feet extra toasty.
• Cross-country skiing: Peaceful and rhythmic, cross-country skis allow you to glide and slide along; there’s an easy learning curve involved (just try it; you’ll get the feel of it), and it’s a workout, but an invigorating one.
Photo by Elke Karin Lugert.
Photo by Kim Chaewool.
Photo by Brendan Beale.
Photo by Lovovna.
• Sledding and tubing: Almost anything with a smooth surface and enough space to sit down on will work in a pinch. You can improvise or check out some of the cool new lightweight options that are offered these days; one no longer has to drag a heavy rig of wood and metal back up the hill, as many of us did as kids with endless enthusiasm.
• Downhill skiing/boarding: These take a bit of practice, but once you get the knack, there’s nothing quite like flying down a slope. The adrenaline rush is addictive.
• Snow biking: Fat tires and a groomed trail are all you need.
Photo by Dmitrii Vaccinium.
Photo by Halfpoint.
• Ice skating: There are year-round indoor options available, and those are lots of fun in their own right. But nothing beats gliding around on an icy lake or pond, then warming up afterward with a hot chocolate.
If it’s been a minute or two since you got out there for some winter fun, start off easy. Take a walk. Let the kids inspire you into a trip to slide down the nearest hillside. Rent a pair of snowshoes or cross-country skis for a couple of hours to check it out. By the way, there’s no need to gear up like crazy to try these activities. Just think in terms of the basics: warm, waterproof, and wearing a helmet for anything that involves downhill speed. Just about anything else you need can be rented, and if you find you’re hooked, we have terrific outfitters who will help you find the perfect gear for you.
winter wonderlands
• Rail trails are great for hiking, snowshoeing, biking, and cross-country skiing.
• The carriage trail network at Mohonk Preserve is great fun and will lead you to stunning panoramic views.
