Like most people in Western New York, I am always at the mercy of winter’s unyielding grip. When I moved to Niagara County, a friend jokingly called it “the Miami of the North,” because it tends to be sunnier and less snowy than Erie County.
That is true most of the time. But lately, with temperatures plunging, I have wondered why I don’t join the many who escape to Florida or Mexico for the winter. Several of my friends spend their winters in Florida, and they’ve kindly invited me to stay with them. I might change my mind in February.
For now, I am content to stay put and savor the season.
Two Christmases ago, I received snowshoes as a gift from my partner, a former Eagle Scout who believes his expertise extends to all things outdoors. Until last Monday, the boxes remained untouched in their original packaging in our garage. I was not too eager about it at first, but his considerate Christmas present, the cashmere sweater I had longed for, persuaded me to give snowshoeing a try.
I walk almost every day throughout the year. Any weather can be manageable with the right clothing choices. My winter walks call only for essential clothing: parka, boots, hat, and gloves. I also appreciate outdoor ice skating; however, the ice rink in DeVeaux Woods State Park, near our home, is no longer operational. I rented cross-country skis in the past, but the hassle of getting ready did not seem worth it for the winter fun I want.
Snowshoeing preparation is not a heavy lift. Our snowshoes and poles fit into their respective bags, each one nestled neatly into the back of the SUV or easily carried over the shoulder.
We recently purchased Oura 4 smart fitness rings, at my urging, because let’s face it, technology that tracks every step, heartbeat and calorie burned is the modern-day love language. I would like to grow old with him and these rings are going to help me do it.
The morning of our winter adventure began with a shovel in one hand and a pellet saltshaker in the other. With the seemingly endless task of shoveling and our driveway and sidewalk complete, we bundled up in our warmest winter gear and headed to DeVeaux Woods State Park.
Though the park is walkable from our house, we drove. It seems most of my neighbors are waiting for divine intervention to remove the snow from the sidewalks, a neglectful and inconsiderate behavior that displays their unfathomable belief that the neighborhood children walking to school, postal carriers, delivery drivers, and all other pedestrians should somehow magically have safe sidewalks during the winter months.
With the car parked, we donned our snowshoes and poles, pausing to appreciate the beautiful winter landscape. Crisp air, brilliant sunshine, and a near pristine blanket of snow made the park magnificent. Equipped with my dependable parka and smart ring set for a snowshoeing workout, I felt prepared to conquer my winter adventure in the park.
As we trekked around the park and through the woods, I discovered that snowshoeing is not only a fantastic cardio workout but also an incredibly peaceful way to experience nature. The rhythmic crunch of snow, the chirping of birds, and deer tracks weaving through the trees created a memorable afternoon.
Despite the cold, I felt a growing appreciation for the beauty of winter and the joy of trying something new. This experience provided an escape from the predictable monotony of daily life, offering a much-needed change of pace in a way that was both revitalizing and satisfying.
Our snowshoeing adventure lasted a little over an hour. Once we returned to the car, we slowly and carefully removed our snowshoes, cleaned off the snow, and put our gear back in the bags.
I am totally hooked on snowshoeing! Back home, I quickly compiled a list of other possible scenic snowshoeing destinations, including Bond Lake, Wilson-Tuscarora State Park, Hyde Park, and Goat Island. Please email me with some of your favorite places.
In a world that often seems to move too fast, snowshoeing reminded me to slow down and savor the simple pleasures. Next time you grumble about the cold, consider giving snowshoeing a try. Winter has its own unique charm. Whether you enjoy the crisp bite of the cold air on your cheeks, the gentle caress of falling snowflakes, or the deep satisfaction of overcoming a challenging feat, there is something undeniably special about fully embracing the wonders of winter, snow, and all the beauty it holds.