Winter Exploring

The winter season is definitely upon us? For many of us, this means a time to hunker down with a warm fleece blanket and a cup of hot chocolate. Time to hibernate-but it doesn’t have to be! Winter provides a different venue for exploring our parks and other scenic settings. I understand that travelling can be cumbersome when there is a snow storm, frigid temperature, or sleek road conditions. I am not advocating that one should risk the safety of themselves or others. I am talking about when the weather has settled and the temperature bearable if one bundles up. There is so much to discover. I remember a few years back when a friend and I took a walk along Kew Beach in Toronto, Ontario. It was a pleasant winter’s day. The city had been bogged down with a high accumulation snow storm. We went a few days later. The snow removal services had dumped the excess snow onto the beach. What an awesome sight! Mini mountains of snow were everywhere. I got the sense like we were walking on the moon. Once we reached the top of one these piles, the view of the drop off was breathtaking.  

One can also visit places where there are rivers, streams or lakes. Ice formations create unique images. The mixture of ice and snow create structures of winter beauty. If you feel you are not up to going for a hike/walk in a natural setting, go visit one of the world’s natural wonders-Niagara Falls. Might I suggest going to the look out that is located in the tunnels of the Falls. Admission is usually less expensive in the off season. Look in wonder at the combination of the raging falls and the ice formation.

My advice to all of you”hibernation” junkies….get out there and discover the winter wonderland in you area!

Melissa Richardson-contributor

                                                             
                                                              Niagara Falls, Canada