Make it a habit to get outdoors, no matter what the weather!
![Winter smile (Photo by Amanda Cashin Photography)](https://www.natureconservancy.ca/assets/images/blog/winter-smile-by-amanda-cashin-thum.jpg)
Winter smile (Photo by Amanda Cashin Photography)
So, it’s a little chilly? That’s no reason to stay indoors. I make it a point to stay connected with nature year round. In fact, I enjoy being outdoors for a hike more in the winter than in any other time of year. Here are my top 11 reasons why I love winter hiking:
- No bugs! Okay, I'll admit: I do miss the dragonflies, and watching the bees pollinate our planet. But I don't miss the buzzing mosquitoes, relentless black flies, sneaky ticks and surprise hornet nests.
- The likelihood of stumbling upon a bear mid-trail is slimmer in winter. They are tucked snugly away, waiting for spring. I would be both honoured and terrified to cross a bear's path in the middle of a forest trail, and am happy to decrease my odds this time of year.
- While the bears are sleeping, other animals are still out and about — and in the winter there is a better chance to witness their existence. Animal tracks are more easily seen in the snow, and visibility through the trees is increased because of the bare branches.
- Because the trees are bare of leaves, those shy little birds have fewer places to hide, and they too are easier to spot.
- I'm warm when everyone else is chilly. Trudging through snow is a great workout. Halfway through a hike I usually end up with my warm winter coat tied around my waist. And when not warm from a little cardio workout, the shelter of the trees keeps me warmer than say, a wide open parking lot in the city.
- My sinuses are clear and I can breath crisp clean air deep into my lungs. No pollen, no humidity, just crisp clear air during a time of year when my allergies are stifled.
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Winter bud (Photo by Amanda Cashin Photography)
- Oh good...you're familiar with the serenity of winter forests. Then you know, with everything underfoot frozen, hiking in the winter is the least messy — no mucky mud to cross, and no wet pools to maneuver over — both are neatly frozen beneath my hiking boots.
- It isn't too hot for a steamy Epsom salt bath when I get home from my hike. I dare you to try to soothe your sore muscles with a hot bath on a humid day in August. But in winter, a post-hike bath is pure bliss.
- There are more fun things to do on a trail in winter. You can't build a snowman, make a snow angel, or have a snowball fight in July!
- And finally, because everything tastes better outdoors mixed with the smell of balsam and pine needles, a sturdy thermos filled with piping hot cocoa to warm me in the chilly air is my final reason. Hmmm...Maybe that reason should be at the top of the list.
![Chickadee (Photo by Amanda Cashin Photography)](https://www.natureconservancy.ca/assets/images/blog/chickadee-by-amanda-cashin-thumb.jpg)
Chickadee (Photo by Amanda Cashin Photography)
Do you have any favorite reasons for enjoying the outdoors in the winter? Email us at landlines@natureconservancy.ca!