“I took a walk in the woods and came out taller than the trees.” – Henry David Thoreau
A hike in the woods may not come to mind as a popular winter pastime, but a brisk jaunt through the snow-covered pines and along frozen creeks will bring a level of invigoration and refreshment unattainable during the warmer months. With fewer visitors and quiet trails, winter is the perfect time to get out and explore the hidden beauty of our local natural wonders.
In Norway, the saying goes, “There’s no such thing as bad weather, only bad clothing”. We heartily agree. With the proper parka and gear, a chill in the air does not need to keep us indoors. We can still venture out to Mt Riga, up to Monument Mountain, or over to the chilly frozen falls of Bash Bish. One of America’s most famous and scenic trails, the Appalachian Trail, meanders right through our region and can become crowded during the summer. Winter provides a quiet lull in activity, allowing visitors and residents the opportunity to experience this iconic path in tranquility. In the winter, the forests come alive. White-tailed deer can be spotted walking through the serene groves as the pecking of woodpeckers beats through the air. Vibrant red cardinals perch along branches, greeting us as we walk along. The lucky may even catch a glimpse of our seasonal favorite, the snowy owl, gliding silently over a frost-covered field.
So, if you’re feeling a little bit stuffy or a bit too full still from your holiday feasts, enjoy an afternoon on one of our fabulous trails to take in the beauty of a winter hike through the Litchfield Hills and Beyond.