Walking in a winter wonderland
PHOTOS BY SHANON ADAME | BCQ Fog rolls in over Look Rock during the winter season.
Want to stay active and entertained even when the temperature dips?
Here are a few ideas for some cool comfort
BY LEE ZIMMERMAN
For some, the approach of winter and colder temperatures means confinement to home and hearth, and a choice to avoid venturing outside except for necessity. Granted, there may be some constraints that accompany the more extreme weather, but that doesn’ t mean there’ s any lack of activity that can be enjoyed outside as part of a seasonal celebration.
Here then, is a list of suggested pastimes meant for those that fancy an entertaining excursion to our local winter wonderland.
Skiing, snowboarding and sledding
The snow isn’ t always plentiful in these parts, but when it accumulates to a depth of at least a few inches, taking to the slopes provides a guaranteed good time. Ober Mountain and the ski trails of North Carolina are easily within reach, offering fun for both beginner and expert skiers. Snowboarding requires a certain level of agility and experience, but it too combines an opportunity for adventure. On the other hand, sledding isn’ t necessarily confined to any particular environment. The gentle slope of a hill can make for a reliable ride, whether it’ s on a sled, laundry basket, cookie sheet, baby pool, tarp, or boogie board. DIY is A-OK.
Hot tubs
When the weather cools down, there’ s nothing like taking a hot dip in the spa, especially when it’ s shared with a perfect partner. A glass of wine, a little steam( natural or otherwise)
20 | BLOUNT COUNTY QUARTERLY • WINTER 2025-26
Daniel Adame takes a jog through the snow.
and a secluded locale, preferably with a perfect view, offers an ideal way to relax and chill, the cool temperatures notwithstanding.
Hiking and nature walks
Granted, a cold afternoon may not seem like an ideal time to leave the comfort of home to head outdoors. Yet, a brisk hike can warm the body and even offer an excuse to shed the jacket after building up some steam. Plus, the wonders of nature are often more visible when the shedding leaves open up vantage points from which to view the far horizons. Glimpse a snow-crested mountain and soak up the splendor.
Boating
It may be too cold to take a dip, but that doesn’ t mean our lakes and rivers are off-limits. In fact, they’ re often less crowded, even as the views of the vistas remain a wonder to