I don’t know about you, but once Christmas and New Year’s are over, I tend to feel a little of the winter gloom. The weather has usually turned to mostly rain. The holiday decorations are all put away. And it’s cold outside! All of which adds up to gloom.
But it doesn’t have to. All it takes is a little effort, and you can turn the winter gloom into a whole bunch of winter fun!
Get outside! Just do it! Don’t let the weather deter you from breathing some fresh air, especially during this pandemic.
Go Hiking
Yes, I know I just said that during the next couple of months it rains a lot. That doesn’t mean there aren’t breaks in the rain or times when only a few drops fall. Take advantage of those moments and explore the fantastic trails right here in your backyard.
The woodland trails above Lithia Park are extensive and present many options for the novice and expert hiker. Just be sure to follow the directional signs and pay attention to which trails are shared with bikes and which ones are bike or pedestrian-only; you don’t want to get in the way of a mountain biker racing down the hill and not expecting to come along a person on foot.
Downhill skiing and Snowboarding
Mt. Ashland is a fantastic place to visit all year long, and during the winter months, skiers and snowboards take to the runs. Just a quick drive south from Ashland and then minutes up the hill, and you can be on your skis and flying down the mountain. This season due to Covid-19 restrictions, there is a limit on how many people can be on the hill. So, go to their website, reserve your spot, and buy your ticket online. If they are already at their max for the day, you will know right away and can’t purchase a ticket.
Cross Country Skiing
Not everyone is a fan of racing down a hill strapped to a board or two sticks. But, taking a casual, less dangerous ski through the woods, now that is fun! Cross country skiers enjoy heading up towards the lodge at Mount Ashland, stopping at Bull Gap or Grouse Gap Loop Trail. Both Hyatt Lake and Lake of the Woods also offer great locations for cross country skiing. But the best part is if you are new to this activity, local companies like Main Street Tours can help. They rent equipment, point you in the right direction. Or, if you need a little more help, offer drop-off service or safe guided tours.
Ice Fishing
Oregon is not typically known as an ice fishing state, but that doesn’t mean that you can’t do it during the colder months. Three lakes here in Southern Oregon offering excellent opportunities to ice fish. Diamond Lake, Fish Lake, and Lake of the Woods are well-stocked year-round. And even better, this is an outdoor activity you can safely do and not have anyone else around.
There is no excuse for winter gloom. Bundle up, and get outside! Your mind and body will thank you for it.
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