Fun in the Winter Sun

    This time of year many people are talking about the first signs of spring, they are thinking about the warmer days soon to come and are planning their garden beds. Here in the Canadian prairie, it is still very much winter, the cold wind blowing and a blanket of white, thick on the ground like wool. But that is no reason to let the weather get you down. It may be cold out but the sun shines bright and it's on days like this that it's important to take advantage of the warming rays. One of my favorite ways to do that is to go snowshoeing. 

    It's a simple sport that most people can do and can be quite enjoyable with the right equipment. Some of the essentials that you will need to enjoy a day walking the countryside are:

- a pair of snowshoes, a set of walking poles though I find these to be optional

- warm, comfortable clothing including: winter boots, snow pants, insulated jacket, scarf, toque and gloves

    The key to being warm and comfortable is proper layering, you don't want to freeze but you don't want to be so hot that you start sweating either. I wear a pair of leggings or longjohns under my snow pants, a t-shirt or long sleeve shirt along with a light to medium weight sweater under my jacket. Something with a hood would be a good idea so that you can insulate your head from the wind. Prairie wind is no joke. I like wearing a scarf to have something to pull over my face, a toque to keep my head and ears warm and gloves. You'll want to make sure your boots are properly insulated to keep your feet warm and dry and a pair of thick socks should be good. 

    Once you're all geared up you've got to figure out where you are going to go snowshoeing. Many city and rural parks will have paths specifically for snowshoeing and cross country skiing so check your local parks for what is available. We like to go to the wildlife lands that's just a five minute drive from our house. It's rare that we won't see some sort of animal out and about there. It's a good place for antler sheds as well. 

Living on the Canadian prairie, you learn to see the beauty in all seasons of nature. Snowshoeing is a great way to enjoy the winter, see beautiful country and is something the whole family can participate in, even the dog. Our dog, Mac, loves playing in the snow. So get bundled up, get your shoes on and we'll see you out there. 

Plus, if you have any favorite spots that you like to visit for winter fun, please leave a comment below.