Wintertime is Outdoor "Funtime"
Stay Healthy and Happy with Winter
Activities
What does winter have in store for us this year? Summer and fall temperatures were above normal and everyone is talking about global climate change. Is a wimpy winter headed our way? The truth is no one really knows for sure, but there is no doubt that it will be a lot colder in January than it was a couple of months ago. And, with a little luck, we’ll enjoy some glorious picture-postcard days with snow on the ground, a brilliant blue sky above, and the sun beaming down on a sparkling winter wonderland.
Medical research indicates that physical activity plays a major role in how easily one can fall prey to the "winter blues". So if you dress appropriately, get outside to hike, ski, or involve yourself in cultural or recreational activities you will feel healthier and happier. Soon the days will begin to lengthen and before you know it crocuses are popping up again! Washtenaw County Parks & Recreation is ready to help you meet Old Man Winter’s challenges by providing numerous venues and activities to enjoy this winter season.
Park Lyndon is one of Washtenaw County’s
most beautiful parks. Its wild, scenic landscape is a great place to
experience that away-from-it-all, "up north" feeling. With over 3 miles of
hiking trails there is much to explore, and
the 36-mile Waterloo-Pinckney Trail runs right through the park, so you can
easily access Pinckney Recreation Area for a nice long hike. Come join us
for the Annual Winter Hike & Potluck at the park cabin,
traditionally held on the first Sunday after New Years Day, January 6th this
winter. All are welcome to start the New Year with fellow lovers of nature,
the outdoors, and good food.
A family favorite for winter fun, Rolling
Hills Park has a diverse landscape of rolling terrain, open and wooded
areas. One of the park’s largest natural hills is the family sledding
hill—lit for nighttime fun—with an average ride length of 150 to 200 feet.
Three groomed cross country ski trails are available to choose from, varying
in length (up to 1.5 miles) and difficulty. The shortest trail, about 0.5
mile, is lit by torches for safe and enjoyable night use. If you don’t have
your own, you can rent cross country skis, toboggans, and tubes at The Lodge
(park headquarters). Bring your own hot cocoa and snacks to warm up by the
stone fireplace in the Great Room at The Lodge. Open year-round, the park’s
18-hole disc golf course, known as "The Hills", offers a great way to
exercise in winter. And, when days begin to lengthen in late February,
Rolling Hills is a great location to spot migratory birds returning from
their southern, wintering locations. Until then wrap up and come enjoy the
beauty of a snow covered landscape. Call (734) 484-9676 for more information
about winter activities
at Rolling Hills.
Independence Lake Park offers a broad range of winter
activities as well, including several winter nature programs. The park
headquarters, with heated rest rooms, is open year-round for your
convenience. When snow falls, we maintain 6 miles of groomed trails for
cross country skiing! Ice fishing is another popular activity once the lake
surface freezes to a safe depth of 6", usually around the middle of January.
Join us for the 4th Annual Independence Lake Park Ice Fishing Derby
on Saturday, February 9th. Call the park for more information, (734)
449-4437.
