Three Rivers Naturalist Shares Joys of Winter Hiking
A naturalist from Three Rivers Park District says hikers can actually see more signs of wildlife during the winter months.
“Their signs are left behind in the snow, which you wouldn’t find in the summer,” explained Christy Bishop, an interpretative naturalist at the Eastman Nature Center.
Bishop says parks have been busy this winter. Three Rivers Park District recently posted an article on the best trails for winter hiking.
“There have definitely been more people, and our parking lots are definitely packed. But the nice thing is that there are so many trails, that once you get out, you don’t see as many people,” said Bishop.
Bishop says there are a variety of trail distances offered in each park. On one trail near Eastman Nature Center, there’s even a story told on posters along the trail.
The only hard and fast rule for winter hiking is don’t hike on a trail designated for cross-country skiing. Otherwise, the trails can offer a peaceful respite.
“It’s peaceful, it’s beautiful, and it’s just a great place to get some time outside,” said Bishop.
But you don’t have to tell that twice to Angela Reger, who tries to get outside for a walk in the Mississippi Gateway Regional Park daily.
“If you can come for 10 minutes, you’ll feel better,” said Reger. “Even if it’s cold, just get out for a few minutes makes all the difference, I think.”
