By Tori Lindert, Beaver Creek Reserve
When the cold winter season begins, you may find yourself struggling to feel motivated to do the things you typically enjoy. The decreasing hours of daylight during the winter months allows for less opportunity to spend time in the sun. Going outside when it’s cold can feel like a chore, but there are so many fun activities waiting for you to try. Beaver Creek Reserve has several opportunities to make the most of the cold winter days and uplift your mood all season long!
1. Become a winter phenology expert
Many creatures are tucked away in hibernation for the season, however, not all seek complete isolation. Bundle up and head outside, whether in your backyard or on the trails at Beaver Creek--winter is a great time to track animal movement. Begin by thinking about what kind of wildlife is in your area and which ones may have headed south. Once you’ve identified a few, look for a track they may have left behind. Where does it lead? What does the pattern of the track look like? How many prints are there? You can become a winter wildlife detective!
Wildlife isn’t the only thing you can identify in the winter. Take a look at the trees and shrubs around you. Are you able to identify what they are, even covered in snow? If the answer is no, consider taking a Winter Phenology Hike with one of our Naturalists or sign up for our Winter Tree ID program and learn to identify plants and trees using characteristics besides their leaves.
2. Go cross-country skiing
Did you know that Beaver Creek has over four miles of regularly groomed cross-country ski trails? Whether you are just starting out or are more experienced, we have trails that fit all levels. If you don’t have your own equipment, we rent out ours for anyone to use. We also offer multiple cross-country skiing classes throughout the season--check out our website for updates.
3. Try snowshoeing
If you love hiking during the winter but have a hard time treading through the snow, try out snowshoeing! Our south campus has over 4 miles of breathtaking snowshoe trails. If you don’t have your own, check-in at the Wise Nature Center to rent a pair.
We also host Candlelight Snowshoe Hikes throughout the winter. Snowshoe at night, guided by the moonlight and luminaries, then end with a warm campfire and hot chocolate. Keep an eye on our events calendar to sign up.
4. Make your own snowshoes
Looking for a more personalized gift this holiday season or want to try your hand at a new craft? Sign up for one of our two-day workshops and make a pair of traditional, wooden snowshoes. Choose from one of three styles of snowshoes: Green Mountain bear paw, Alaskan trail shoe, or the all-purpose Ojibwa style. Then lace with tubular nylon, which is comfortable to work with and has great strength when varnished. This course will also teach you how to care for them afterward. Once completed, you can take these snowshoes outside for an adventure, or keep them inside as a special decoration. Check out our events calendar for registration information and course dates.
Connecting with nature during all seasons is important for your mental and physical health. Whether you’re trying something new, or getting back to an old hobby or passion, consider spending the winter season with Beaver Creek Reserve!