Snowshoeing!

What have I been doing over the past week instead of blogging?

Snowshoeing!

It's been a long time since we've had ski-able, snowshoe-able snow this early in December. And after two very dry, brown winters with little snow and much melting between each storm, I feel the need to get out as often as I can to enjoy my favorite winter sport.

So what do I love about it? The most obvious is that it keeps me active in even the coldest days as well as during periods of deep snow. Slogging through shin- and knee-deep snow in boots while breaking a trail is not fun. Floating over the same trail in snowshoes as the first person on it after a storm is more my cup of tea.

Image -
Lloyd Lorenz

While I also cross-country ski, I like that I can simply throw on my snowshoes and head out during and immediately after a snowstorm. No waiting for grooming to get my outside fun in!

Plus I am an inveterate off-trailer in the winter snow. Trails are just suggestions. The real fun for me is heading off into the marvelously accessible woods and seeing what I can see. 

During most growing seasons, the density of undergrowth makes most off-trailing arduous. In winter, snow opens up great swaths of that understory to the curious outdoors person. While breaking trail is more tiring, it also has great rewards by letting you get up close and personal to rock formations and running water (or traversing solid ice) to explore areas you can't easily access in the warmer, snowless months.

A pole can be useful as you tramp whether you are on or off trails. Steep climbs or descents are easier with a pole to balance with. If you are off-trailing, you can create your own switchbacks to make steep inclines less fraught.

While that's my jam, you may want to use the hiking trails to keep the energy expenditure low. Hikers and other snowshoers tamp down the snow and make snowshoeing a snap. 

Image courtesy of ORA

If you are using wider shared use trails that are groomed for cross country skiers, please be mindful of best practice though. Stay to the side of the trail and avoid using the tracks for skate and classic skiing. Volunteers spend hours grooming those trails for those of us who also enjoy skiing. Walking, snowshoeing or biking on those tracks degrades them for skiers. 

If you are snowshoeing and cross a cross-country ski trail, please lift your snowshoes over the classic track rather than plow through the track. Sharing trails respectfully means that all our winter-loving outdoor friends can have a great experience pursuing their snowy passions!

Finally, for ultimate snowshoeing fun, when buying snowshoes, look for ones that have easy bindings to get in and out of. In crispy cold weather, you don't want to spend your time with cold hands struggling to get your 'shoes on and off. Spending a bit of time and research before you buy can mean fewer cold fingers and bent backs and more time on the trails!

See you on (and off!) the trails!

Images, unless noted - Marge Loch-Wouters

Image - Lloyd Lorenz

You can read my quarterly column on seasonal hiking suggestions in Inspire(d) Driftless Magazine available online or pick up a free copy at businesses and organizations around the Driftless areas of Minnesota, Wisconsin and Iowa.

Chasing Snow in a Snowfall Drought

I am a huge snow lover and winter sports enthusiast. Back in 1991, my partner and I were lucky enough to share a cabin with friends near Elcho WI for over 20 years. It gave us a chance to have a headquarters to really enjoy winter sports up north and to try trails and winter adventures all over the northwoods. 

MN DNR Snow Depth Map

It also gave a multi-year perspective to notice a curious phenomenon - the gradual decline of snowfall during those years. We began to see that the snow that made us head up north to the cabin frequently came later and later each year. Multiple thaws in January and shorter winters also became the rule rather than the exception. 

This same pattern was happening south in our Driftless area too. Our snow cover came late and didn’t last as long and thaws became more frequent leaving trails icy, bare or heaving. I learned to get out and snowshoe immediately and frequently once it snowed if I wanted to enjoy my favorite winter activity.

Once we sold our cabin share, we headed up annually in January even further north in WI near Michigan’s U.P. and to MN’s North Shore where snowfall was abundant, snow cover reliably deep and trails were awesome. Chasing - and finding - snow away from home became an annual ritual. And we were seldom disappointed!

This year, after a small snow before the holidays, thaws left us with no snow at home as the new year started. So my partner and I started January on an eleven day quest to find some snow to play in up north in WI and MN. Here’s what we found in the new winter climate change paradigm of snowfall drought.

Our first stop was a stay in Phelps WI at Pete and Gail Moline’s Afterglow Lake, a small “Ma and Pa” silent sports resort next to the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest about a mile south of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. I’ve been there frequently over the years enjoying the hospitality and great trails that start right outside the cabins. The resort has miles of snowshoe/biking trails and cross-country ski trails that are meticulously groomed. 

Lake effect snow at Afterglow

While we had some gentle lake effect snowfall in the frigid days we were there, there wasn’t enough snow to snowshoe or cross-country ski in. Two days of heavy rain in late December melted the snow they had to an icy layer. The ski trails were closed. We ended up hiking with microspikes on the many melted-snow-icy patches on the snowshoe trails. That was a first. 

To say that the Moline’s are concerned about this lack of snow for their clients and their own livelihood is an understatement. And this isn’t the first poor snow year for them or the many other businesses like restaurants, taverns, lodges, hotels and stores up north that cater to winter sports enthusiasts. 

On our way to our next VRBO stay near Lutsen on MN’s North Shore, we passed through the best and deepest snow so far this year in Michigan’s Ottawa National Forest and Sylvania Wilderness area. It was still far less snow than this region usually has by this time but definitely deep enough for skiing and ‘shoeing. But this area was an oasis in a sea of scant snow across the north woods.

Dawn on Lake Superior

Lake Superior’s North Shore was also pretty snowless. It only had the remains of snow that fell before the late December thaws and rains. Once again we hiked trails virtually devoid of other people. It was clear to us while we were up at both places that there were far fewer snow tourists of any kind. 

Climate change that produces significantly less snow results in snowfall droughts that are affecting our Driftless areas as well as traditional high snowfall areas of the northern regions of those states as well as regions going further north into the Arctic. It is sobering to see the changes in real time as we chased snow this year.

Thankfully for the businesses, significant snow finally fell again the day after we came home in the areas we visited up north. My fingers are crossed that the temps stay below freezing to help their snow cover last.

Despite the lack of snow on our quest, we were glad we could support our northern neighbors by getting out hiking on the trails and spending money in the communities. It is one way to help them during these snowfall drought times. And even a snowless winter landscape up north has great beauty, tons of adventure and natural delights to discover.

Now we'll see what the rest of our winter has in store in these warming climate times.

Lake Superior always fascinates

It's Snowtime Showtime!

Each season's first snow storm is always exciting for me (if I don't have to drive too far in it!). It kicks off one of my favorite outdoor recreation seasons - winter. 

Living in Wisconsin and Minnesota almost all my life, I have always embraced the season  - from sledding, ice skating and hockey, building snowmen and snow forts and having snowball fights as a kid to ice fishing, cross-country skiing and snowshoeing as much as possible as a grown-up, snow and cold are my pals. I love when my friends post about downhill skiing, fat tire biking, tubing, ice climbing and snowboarding. In my world, any outdoor winter recreation is great recreation.

Snowshoeing is my favorite snow play and I am out most days when the snow is on the ground. I love that snowshoes let you go off trail and really explore, bug-free! I also like helping winter fat tire bikers by hitting shared hiking and biking trails and tramping down the trail to make it more welcoming for the bikes. Meanwhile, I get to enjoy trails that are often too busy with bikes in warmer temps that are much quieter in winter time.

If you do use the wide, groomed cross-country ski trails this winter for walking, hiking or biking, please keep in mind that the groomed ski trails are set for skiers and be mindful of how to use them to keep the groomed tracks in good shape for our skiing friends. Here is a recent message shared by ORA Trails on that: 

Snow is Here!!!

This is your friendly reminder that as snow groomers gear up to lay down some tracks, there is an intended way to use them!

• Traditional skiing stays on the right (You'll see the straight tracks)
• Skate skiers use the center lane (groomed like corduroy)
• ALL OTHER USERS stay left (walkers, bikers, snowshoers)

This will allow everyone to #getoutside and enjoy this wintery weather!

Happy Winter Solstice and see you on the snowy trails!

Let's Get Hiking and Learning - January 2025

First off - SNOW!!!!!!!!!!

We received a solid 6" here in La Crescent on December 19. Let's get out and play!

For more information on the trips, where available, please click on the brown event titles for a link to the program or hike.

I will be updating this post periodically during December and January as new events are announced, so feel free to stop back!

Whitewater River Valley Annual Christmas Bird Count
- Wednesday, January 1           8am- noon

 -Whitewater State Park

Kick off the New Year at Whitewater State Park by helping with the Annual Whitewater River Valley Christmas Bird Count! Birders of all skill levels are welcome. Work in small groups to survey locations within our count circle. Reservations are required. To sign up, email jeremy.darst@state.mn.us or call 507-312-2301. Sponsor: Whitewater State Park

Image -Kris Lawson

First Day Hikes
 - Wednesday, January 1, 2025

 - State Parks - or any trail near you!

Start your year off right with a First Day Hike. First Day Hikes are part of a nationwide initiative led by America's State Parks to get people outdoors, with over 400 hikes scheduled this year in all 50 states. Kids and adults all across America will be participating in First Day Hikes, getting their hearts pumping and enjoying the beauty of a state park. 

But don't forget you can also hit the trails at any nearby spot!

Nearby MN First Day Hikes 

 - Whitewater State Park - Visitor Center

 - Wed, Jan 1      2-3:00pm

Start the New Year right! Come out and explore the great outdoors with our park naturalist. We will take a peaceful 1 mile walk along the Whitewater River and look for hints of the old as we celebrate the new. If there is enough snow, we will snowshoe. Bring your own snowshoes or borrow some from the park. To sign up, email Jeremy.Darst@state.mn.us or call 507-312-2301.

Frontenac State Park

You are invited to join the Frontenac State Park Association for their annual First Day Walk. FSPA members will provide warm fires and treats at the main picnic shelter for folks beginning their new year in the fresh, bracing air.

Click here for a listing of all MN First Day Hikes

Nearby WI First Day Hikes 

 - Roche-a-Cri, Friendship WI

 - 1-2:30pm

Meet at the winter lot on Czech Avenue (Lat: 43.9962° N, Lon: 89.8170° W, a 1/4-mile west of Highway 13, north of Friendship, WI) to hike through the prairie to the petroglyph viewing platform and back through the woods for a 1.2-mile hike. The Friends of Roche-A-Cri will provide hot chocolate and treats after the hike. Pets on leashes are allowed. The trail is hilly by the bridge but level the rest of the way. You’re free to hike more in the park afterwards, but the Mound Trail and stairway remain closed due to fire damage.

Click here for a listing of all WI First Day Hikes

Nearby IA First Day Hikes

 - Yellow River State Forest

 - 9:00 am

Meeting Location: Firetower Cabin.  Park Address: 729 State Forest Rd., Harpers Ferry, IA 52146 Description: This two-mile hike will start by going up White Pine Trail and circle Camp Glen Wendel, and head back on the Forester Trail to the hike's beginning at the Firetower Cabin. Contact: (563) 586-2254

International Owl Center Minnesota Neighbor Weekends 

 - January 4-5

 - International Owl Center, Houston MN

Residents of local MN counties (Winona, Fillmore, and Houston counties) , including college students, are specially invited to visit the International Owl Center for FREE on Neighbor Weekends. Come see live owls in person, check out our hands-on displays, and stay for our live programs at 11 and 2 each day. Please bring a driver license, student ID or other form of identification to verify your place of residence. Visitors from elsewhere are also welcome, but will be required to pay the regular admission fee of $9 for adults, $8 for seniors/veterans/military and $6 for children aged 4-17. Sponsor: International Owl Center 

Wintering Golden Eagle Survey

Registration deadline is January 10

 - Saturday January 18         10am-noon

Whitewater State Park

Join other trained survey volunteers to patrol the Whitewater State Park survey area and document observations of wintering golden eagles. Participants must complete identification training before taking part in the survey. To sign up, email jeremy.darst@state.mn.us.  Sponsor: Whitewater State Park

Winter Festival

 - Saturday, January 11    Beginning at 10 am

 - Kickapoo Valley Reserve Visitor's Center, S3661 WI 131, La Farge WI

Kick off to the 25th anniversary of the Kickapoo Valley Reserve. This is one event that's not to be missed! Winter Festival is a wonderful family event that highlights outdoor winter activities. Activities include sledding, skiing, snow sculpture, ice hikes, wildlife talks & hikes, face painting, horse-drawn bobsled rides, snowshoe exhibit, sled dog demonstrations. La Farge Lions host Chili and Bread Contest! Bring your child and your dog and try out the Mutt Fun dogsled run. Conquer the snow mountain & snow tunnel. Test your skills at the Traditional Snow Snake Competition or Smoosh Races. Night winter activities can include star gazing and candlelight snowshoe hike. Admission to Winter Festival is free and open to the public! Friendly dogs are welcome on leash. Children must be accompanied by an adult.
Activities subject to change due to weather conditions. Find more information on our website or on our Facebook page. Sponsor: Kickapoo Valley Reserve.

Winter Bird Walk

 - Saturday, January 11      9:30am

 - Frontenac State Park ranger station parking lot 

What birds can you see in January? We will take a short prairie loop to look for year-round residents such as Pileated Woodpeckers, identify some of the over-wintering sparrows, such as White-throated Sparrows as well as, possibly, Eastern Bluebirds, and perhaps see some early raptors such as an American Kestrel. Sometimes it's mostly just beauty. Bummer. ❄️ If you have any questions, email janetmalotky@gmail.com. This event is free. Vehicles entering the park are required to have a State Park vehicle permit. Permits are $7 per day or $35 for an annual sticker. Sponsors: Frontenac State Park Association and Frontenac State Park

After the Hunt: Cooking with Venison

 - Saturday, January 11     10am - 1:30pm

 - Iowisota Retreat and Education Center, 2472 IA-26, Lansing IA

We welcome guest expert Chris Gavin back to Iowisota on Saturday January 11th, 2025, to teach us how to prepare a variety of cuts of venison into tasty dishes, which we will taste-test at the end of the session. Cost per person is $50. Registration required.

Hidden History Snowshoe

 - Saturday, January 11      Noon-2:00pm

 - Whitewater State Park Visitor Center

When the leaves are gone and the snow is falling, nature reveals her hidden secrets. Come join us for an afternoon on snowshoes as we find some of these historic relics only visible this time of year. Bring your own snowshoes or use the park's. If there is no snow, we'll hike through the woods! Distance: 1 Mile. Contact Jeremy Darst at 507-312-2301 or by email at Jeremy.Darst@state.mn.us. Sponsor: Whitewater State Park

Candlelight Walk, Ski or Snowshoe

 - Saturday, January 11      5:00-9:00pm

 - Wildcat Mountain (WI) State Park

Hike, snowshoe or ski a 1.5-mile torchlit trail, warm up around a roaring campfire, and gaze up at the stars. Refreshments will be available. 5-7 p.m. John Heasley of Driftless Stargazing, LLC will be hosting a stargazing activity, weather permitting. Four planets and an almost full moon will be lighting up the night sky. Bring binoculars and learn to use them for stargazing. Trail is relatively flat with a few short hills that can be slippery when snow or ice covered. Pets are not allowed on packed or groomed ski trails, this includes the trail used for the candlelight event. Programs may be canceled due to inclement weather. Contact: Emily.Alf@wisconsin.gov, 608-337-4775. Sponsor: Wildcat Mountain State Park.

Owl Prowl

 - Saturday, January 11      5:00 -7:30 pm

 - International Owl Center, Houston MN

We start with a 30-minute program indoors to teach you how to identify owls by sound and the ethics of calling owls. Then you hop in your vehicle and follow the Owlmobile to about three different locations in rural Houston where Jo, our resident expert owl caller, will imitate owl calls in hopes of getting some responses. The program is capped at 30 participants, and these always sell out in advance. Cost is $10 for members and $15 for non-members. Due to the need to stand perfectly still for 10 minutes or more at a time, these owl prowls are not recommended for children under age 12. No pets, smoking or vaping allowed either indoors or outdoors. Registration required. Registration opens December 13.  [Note: Registration for the February 8, 2025 Owl Prowl begins January 12]. Sponsor: International Owl Center 

Moonlight Hike/Snowshoe

 -  Sunday, January 12     6:00 pm

 - 2345 Power Plant Dr, Lansing, IA

Join the Allamakee County Conservation Board for a Moonlight Snowshoe Hike. The hike will take place just south of Lansing on County Road 527. The route will be approximately 4 miles on mostly flat ground with views of the Mississippi River. County Road 527 is located 4 miles south of Lansing on Power Plant Drive. Participants are asked to park near the Rural Recycling drop off location. The Moonlight Snowshoe will be a guided trail hike taking place after dark to enable the participants to see the stars and moon like they have never seen before. The event requires preregistration for those wishing to use snowshoes provided by the ACCB and is open to all ages. However, anyone under 16 years of age must be accompanied by an adult. The event will take place as a regular hike if there is minimal or no snow cover. In the case of inclement weather or poor snow conditions the Moonlight Snowshoe may be postponed or cancelled and will be announced via the ACCB’s Facebook page. Appropriate sized snowshoes and trekking poles will be provided to individuals who do not have their own equipment with preregistration. Participants should dress for the weather with appropriate layers including outerwear, winter hats, gloves, and waterproof boots. A headlamp or small flashlight is also recommended, but not required. Any dogs must be on leash at all times. A full schedule of upcoming events hosted by the Allamakee County Conservation Board is available by following the ACCB on Facebook. To register or to receive more information on this event or any event you can call the ACCB at (563)538-0403. Sponsors: Allamakee County Conservation Board and the Driftless Area Education and Visitors Center.

Full Moon Candlelit Walk

 - Thursday, January 16        5 - 7:00pm

 - Chad Erickson Park, 3601 Park Lane, La Crosse

A crowd favorite! ORA will again host a series of candlelit walks when the moon is fullest each month. These are free, all-ages events that begin at 5pm, and last until 7pm, or until we run out of fire wood!
Additional hikes: February 12, 2025 - Lower Hixon Park and March 13, 2025 - Gateway Trails, Grandad Bluff Park. Each location chosen utilizes a path that is considered "easy to moderate" to navigate by foot, stroller or wheelchair. Candles will light the route, but if you'd like to see clearly where you're stepping, consider wearing a headlamp or bringing a flashlight. Snacks and beverages will be on site, including fire pits with s'mores! Consider volunteering for this event here: https://signup.com/go/atqotKm   Sponsor: ORA Trails (Outdoor Recreation Alliance)

Winter Walk and Bonfire

 - Saturday, January 18        3-5:30pm

 - Sidie Hollow County Park -  E6051 CR-XX, Viroqua, WI Map to Sidie Hollow Park Pavilion 

The Friends of Vernon County Parks and Forests will be hosting this special guided Winter Walk (as well as one in February) exploring two Vernon County parks! These winter walks bring awareness to our county parks in the winter season as well as allow the greater community to come together! The winter walks and bonfire are for friends and families of all ages and will take place at Sidie Hollow January 18 and Lower Duck Egg Feb 22. Walkers are to meet in the park parking lot. All walks will begin promptly at 3pm and will be approximately 1 hour long, with a bonfire and beverages to immediately follow. We encourage walkers to always dress appropriately for the walk and the weather and invite your family and friends! Sponsor: The Friends of Vernon County Parks 

Free Park Day
 - Monday, January 20 (Martin Luther King Day)

 - All MN State Parks
On four days each year, all Minnesota state parks and state recreation areas offer free admission to everyone - no vehicle permits needed. Minnesota state parks are open year-round, and there's a state park within 30 miles of most Minnesotans. With a free day in each season, it's a great opportunity to get out there and explore someplace new - or visit an old favorite at a new time of year! Whether you stay for the whole weekend or just spend a few hours outside, you'll make memories that will last a lifetime. The goal is to encourage families and friends to spend time together in nature. Research shows many health and wellness benefits to spending time in nature. According to ParkRx, contact with nature improves one’s physical, mental, and spiritual health. Getting outdoors makes exercise more fun and can boost mood and immunity. The American Psychological Association shares that exposure to nature is linked to benefits including improved attention, lower stress, reduced risk of psychiatric disorders and even increases in empathy and cooperation. Additional dates for free park days in 2025: Saturday, April 26; Saturday, June 14; and Friday, November 28, 2025. Sponsor: MN DNR

Family Nature Hike

 - Saturday, January 25.    10 am

 - Trempealeau National Wildlife Refuge

Join Nora & Delaney from Happy Dancing Turtle for a guided nature walk, in partnership with the Trempealeau National Wildlife Refuge!  Meet other nature-loving families & individuals as we take a leisurely hour(ish) walk, observe nature & learn some fun facts. Note: depending on snow levels & the average length of legs, our walk may go a bit beyond 1 hour. If conditions are right, we also have the opportunity to borrow snow shoes from the refuge!  Meeting location is dependent on weather, conditions, & phenology. Sign up for FREE & the meeting spot will be sent to you! Join us after the walk to chat about cool nature discoveries & to warm up with hot beverages, generously provided by the Friends of the Trempealeau Refuge!  Register at bit.ly/HDTFamNatureWalk 

Sponsors: Happy Dancing Turtles and Trempealeau National Wildlife Refuge

Registration Open: Prairie Enthusiasts Online Conference

Finding Your Place in the Prairie

 - February 12-15, 2025

Our annual virtual conference brings together people of various prairie and savanna knowledge-levels. Whether they’re just discovering prairies or are looking to deepen their skillset, we strive to provide opportunities for all to connect and learn. The 2024 conference had 568 attendees come together to learn, share and find a prairie community. Our 2025 “Finding Your Place in the Prairie” conference will focus on:

• Examining individual species examinations, connections, dependence
• Engaging volunteers and supporters to partake in land stewardship
• Showcasing the uniqueness of prairie ecosystems
• Providing opportunities to connect with fellow Prairie Enthusiasts

Registration Link. Sponsor: The Prairie Enthusiasts

To find additional events, check often during the month with local hiking groups, universities, naturalist-interest groups, nature conservancies, nature centers and their Friends groups, state parks, US Fish and Wildlife centers and others in your area to see what's new to help you understand the natural world around you better. 

Do you know of other January events I should include?  Just drop me a line in comments or the contact box on my website. Happy holly-days!

 

It's Cold! Let's Get Hiking! - Recommendations

Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest (WI)

In a recent post, I explored gear and clothing, two components that add up to successful cold weather outdoor fun. 

Today we are going to look at how to plan hikes strategically in the colder weather and suggestions for hiking destinations in the Driftless.

While flora, fauna and fungi are tucked away during the cold and snowy weather, the bare trees allow even more expansive views of vistas and geological features so often hidden during the warmer, leaf-filled months. Brush also dies back freeing you to bushwhack and explore a bit more off-trail or hike more easily on lesser-used trails that are overgrown in the summer.

Reno's "spinal column" rocks

One strategy in planning your hikes is to think about some of the more dramatic vistas you enjoy or rock formations that you have glimpsed from trails but have never really seen as a whole. Also in the Driftless, the Mississippi River is a major migration flyway so there are exciting sights during late fall.

Another strategy is noting how cold or windy it is going to be. If you have a windy day, take note of wind direction and try bluffside hikes that take you below the rims where you will gain protection from bitter winds. Deciduous and coniferous forests can also be good choices in the wind. If you have a sunny but cold day with little wind, choose a sunnier spot for your hikes and start later in the day.

Is it time for the gun deer season? If you are in the Driftless area, the gun seasons for deer are often on different weeks from state to state. Pick hikes in a nearby state that isn't in gun hunting season (MN: Nov 9-17 and Nov 23-Dec 1. WI: Nov 23-Dec 1 and Dec 12-15.  IA: Dec 7-11; Dec 14-22).

If you think about your hiking destinations in some of these terms, you'll find an endless array of possible hikes. Here's a few suggestions to help you get started! Click on the hike title to find directions and descriptions of trails.

Migration Hotspots
November hiking affords dramatic migration action from many waterfowl including trumpeter and tundra swans. Hikes where you can look at these waterfowl or stop at an overlook on the way to see them are especially fun. So try:

Enjoying the views and spotting migrating swans
at Reno Quarry

• Reno Quarry (MN) - Stop at Brownsville Overlook to see thousands of swans, geese and ducks as they rest and eat along their migration route. The overlook is staffed the first 3 weekends of November. Then hike the quarry for the Mississippi River views and marvel at the rocks on the trail spur north of the quarry.

• Reno Spillway (MN) - If the spillway is open, take a walk right along the Mississippi River and see the thousands of ducks between the MN and WI bluffs. This hike is a gentle, flat one.

• Sugar Creek Bluff SNA (WI) - Heading south from La Crosse, stop at the Shady Maple Overlook just south of Goose Island to see swans and other migrating waterfowl. Then continue on to this Mississippi Valley property south of Ferryville and enjoy a gentle hike out to outstanding views of the river and woods.

Look Out for Those Rocks

There are so many geological formations that are hidden by trees on trails. Fall and winter are ideal times to hike trails that reveal these massive cliffs and rocks. A few trails to try:

• 

  Mushroom Rock revealed in winter!

  
  Beaver Valley State Park (MN) - The rim trails of the park are full of dramatic rocks; but so too is the trail that runs on either side of the trout stream. With leaves down, the rocks and narrow valley walls are breathtaking.

• Yellow River Forest - Luster Heights Unit (IA) This area is relatively flat with some rolling hills and magnificent views of the Mississippi River. The rocks are pretty spectacular too! This is also a great snowshoe area.

• Lost Creek Trail (MN) -  This is a fun late fall hike with great stream crossings and lovely views, not least of which is a series of towering limestone cliffs that are hidden during the growing season. The cliffs are about 2.25 miles in and make a great place to turn-around at this out-and-back hike that starts at the Ninebark trailhead.

• Greens Coulee/Savannah Oaks (WI) - This Mississippi Valley Conservancy boasts some impressive ups and downs, a view or two and a great mushroom rock formation. Invasive buckthorn makes the trail to this rock tough in the growing season but with no leaves, the rock is easily visible. It's worth the hike!

• Whitewater State Park (MN) - The Dakota trails are great for the dry part of late fall and early winter (I don't think I'd have the guts to snowshoe some parts of the narrow, sometimes eroded steep trails). The rock formations on these rim trails are amazing and a great way to enjoy the views.

Views to Die for

Ok, not really, but there are some spectacular views to be had when the leaves are off. They show a different face of familiar places and vistas that go on forever.

Paint Rock Unit of 
Yellow River State Forest

• Yellow River Forest - Paint Rock Unit (IA) - With it's high bluffs and climbing trails to get to the fabulous rim trails, cool weather is a perfect time to tackle these bluffs. The views that greet you of the Mississippi are worth the price of admission.

• Great River Bluffs State Park (MN) - Many iconic overlooks await you on these forest trails. The south trails have some steep and rolling spots so cool weather is your friend. It is another off-trail gem of a park for snowshoeing.

• Levis-Trow Mounds Recreation Area (WI) - Great shared trails that climb up and down towards the rim. Amazing vistas on these high mounds offer views of the flatter glaciated land with the Driftless area's bluffs rising in the distance. Also had amazing rock formations!

Winter Wonderland

Snowshoeing is so much fun in the Driftless. And half the fun of being on 'shoes is that you can literally go wherever you want. You can stay on trails or explore off-trail to your hearts content. I'm an inveterate off-trailer, seeking deer trails and drifts to follow.  A winter day on snowshoes is a day worth living! Try some of these:

• 
  
  Apple Blossom Overlook Park (MN) - A wonder of prairie flowers in the summer and a fun challenging snowshoe in winter. The off-trailing here is great fun . I only attempt the steep Dakota Overlook trail in winter to the little quarry and often follow the old road down to the highway. Owls await the silent.

• Mathy Quarry Snakeroot Trail (WI) - a beautiful hiking trail that winds through prairie, pines, birches and woods. A winter wonderland in the snow indeed

• Root River WMA (MN) - Lightly used, this is an off-trailing snowshoers dream. There are plenty of open areas to explore and enjoy majestic views of the surrounding bluffs. Keep an eye on watery spots.

• Halfway Creek (WI) - This wide trail is great in summer but in winter it is a snowshoeing off-trail dream. You can follow along the creek, cross the bridges and explore the other side of the winding water. Though some snowshoe on the trail, I say why bother. Let hikers have it while you live the snowshoeing dream.

Bluffside Trails Protection 

Trails along bluffsides can be great in the winter. They offer protection from sharp winds. Often these can be bike trails which are far quieter in the winter. And bikers appreciate snowshoers coming in after snowfalls tramping down trails for bikes. Try these:

On Hixon's Chicanery bike trail
Image  - Kris Lawson

• Hixon Forest Bike Trails (WI) - These trails are really delightful in winter when the snow is on the ground. You can use spikes on tamped down trails or snowshoes in fresh snow. Break it up a bit. Stinky/Chicanary. Another day do Twister/SpillHill/boB. Then try Prairie/Twister/Mr. Hyde. All of these trails are bluffside trails and offering wind protection depending on the direction of the wind.

• Hixon Oak Trail (WI) - A hike-only trail that offers alot of rolling hills. I do this one with spikes since it is well tramped down and this gives me needed traction. 

Sunshine in the Open Air

Sometimes on a mild winter day, it's nice to have some sunshine even if it is a bit weak.   Try these to catch some Ds.:

Mertes Slough snowshoe

• MacGilvray's Seven Bridges (WI)  - A lovely walk or snowshoe across six historic bridges through wetlands and woods.

• Wildwood Loop (MN) - High atop the Holzinger Trail system are these loop trails. On a sunny winter day, you get views of Winona and surrounding bluffs.

•  Aghaming Park Trail (MN) - This trail down by the Mississippi River and its sloughs is a great snowshoe. Many off-trailing opportunities exist.

• Mertes Slough (MN) -  An excellent snowshoe exploration. Make sure the ice is thick for this one. Your reward? Eagles nest, grand views and a labyrinth of possible trails.

Hope you challenge yourself to some year-round, cold-weather hiking adventures. I think you'll be glad you did!

Late fall chillaxing on a "sofa"
(fallen logs across the trail) on a MN bluff
Image - Diane Palm

All images, unless noted - Marge Loch-Wouters

It's Cold! Let's Get Hiking!

As temperatures start their drop in November, many people head to indoor fitness centers, gyms and activity centers to get their aerobic exercise done. I do some of that too.

But, as a year-round hiker, I continue to hike/snowshoe in the cold months of November through March. I find the scenery interesting, the trails less crowded and the weather not as bad as one might expect. 

The snowshoe view from the bluffs

There are three key components to late fall/winter outdoor fun:

• the right gear
• the right layers
• strategic choices on hiking destinations

I'll look at gear and layers in this post. In part 2, we'll look at strategically choosing hiking and snowshoeing destinations as the weather turns cold, icy and snowy.

THE RIGHT GEAR

Microspikes

Bushwhacking with microspikes
Image -Lavon Court

Without a doubt, this has been the gear choice that exploded my world and really got me out year-round. Being able to get firm footing on icy trails with constant elevation changes is perfect for the Driftless area. Using spikes means I can be on trails throughout the winter even if there is no snow for my snowshoeing. I have Kahtoola brand and they wear like iron; I'm starting my 4th winter with them. They are worth every penny of their price and will keep you hiking during icy/snowy tramps. Hint: buy a size up from their recommendation - they fit tightly and it can be a struggle getting that strong rubber up and around your insulated boots.

Boots

You know when you are in inadequate cold weather boots - your feet are freezing! Keeping tootsies warm is easy when you have waterproof, insulated boots. I found a pair of Merrill hiking boots that are less bulky than my old Sorrels and are mid height. It gives my foot lots more flexibility while winter hiking, provides ankle support and keeps my feet toasty warm in even below zero temps. Best of all they work great for both hiking and snowshoeing!

Safety colors

Blaze Orange

While technically not gear, wearing blaze orange (hat, vest, overshirt, jacket) or blaze yellow during late fall/early winter hiking is a must. Many hunting seasons are occurring, especially gun seasons for deer. While you may be on private property or at a state park, those lands abut private lands and hunters often carry high-powered weapons. Being visible on the trail makes a real difference.

Leg Gaiters

Nothing is worse than getting snow in your boots especially when snowshoeing.  A pair of leg gaiters can be helpful in keeping your ankles and shins dry.  I also like the extra bit of insulation it provides my shins. My  40 year old pair of Outdoor Research gaiters is still going strong.

Snowshoes

Ever since I let go of my classic wood and rawhide-laced Iverson's and joined the modern world, I have snowshoed even more! The smaller, lighter aluminum models featuring heel lifts, crampons and insanely easy bindings really upped my snowshoeing game, especially in bluff country. My advice here: really look at the bindings and make sure they are quick enough to get into, tighten and release - it will save you seriously frozen fingers. If you are hiking up any bluffs or climbing while you snowshoe, I highly recommend making sure your snowshoes have heel lifts that can be popped up to support your heel and keep your foot flatter when climbing. Your Achilles tendons and calves will thank you!

THE RIGHT LAYERS

Pants Layers

Windproof and water-resistant are the way to go in winter. While I used to rely on thicker ski leggings, they lacked water resistance and I missed having pockets. Thanks to a thread on the Women Who Hike Minnesota Facebook page, I opted for for lightweight water and wind resistant Duluth Trading's Flexpedition pants instead. They keep me nimble and not feeling like I'm wrapped in swaths of cotton.  With a pair of long undies, I am set for just about any winter weather (true confession - I seldom venture out when the windchill is below -20F). My go-to base layers in order of warmth (light to heavy) are silk, polypro and merino wool long underwear depending on the temps. If it is wicked windy, I may combine two of these. My Smartwool Intraknit merino wool pair are super light, super warm and breathable. They keep me warm in the worst cold. Fleece or flannel-lined pants also cut the cold.

Late fall birches at Hixon

Top Layer Clothes

I am a huge merino wool fan. I use a light wool shirt as my base layer (or two if it's below zero). Then a turtle neck with a regular wool pullover sweater. The final wool sweater's weave and thickness depends on the weather and wind. That gives me plenty of warmth and options to de-layer as needed on the trail. Whether you use polypro or merino wool, that first base layer makes all the difference.

Typical gear for most winter fun
Image - Lloyd Lorenz

Jackets

Flexibility here is key depending on what weather you are going out into and if you want to be warm but not sweaty. Down vests are my go-to for most non-windy but cold days. Because I love to bushwhack when I snowshoe/hike in the cold months, I often get tears in my vests from prickly brush as I tramp. So I am a thrift store shopper for down vests which are my jacket of choice during the above-zero hikes and snowshoes. I also have a light down jacket with hood (pictured to the right) as the weather gets colder and an old but reliable Marmot hooded jacket with canvas outer shell and synthetic lining (similar to Carhart). It is monster wind-resistant and my below-zero go-to layer. 

Neck Gaiter

Rather than a scarf, I use a pull-over-my-head merino wool neck gaiter. It not only provides warmth for my neck but I can pull it up over my nose and head in a pinch. It is compact and can be stowed away in my pack so it is easily at hand.

At MacGilvray 7 Bridges
Image - Kris Lawson

I also recommend this post from This Big Wild World blog by MN's Susan Gleissner. She delves even further into recommendations on hats, gaiters, jackets and more and has some great tips and recommendations!

Late fall hiking at
Luster Heights Unit -
Yellow River State Forest

Click here to to learn how to plan hikes strategically in the colder weather along with a list of recommended 2024 hikes and check out this updated 2025 list of winter hikes.

Images, unless noted - Marge Loch-Wouters

Hiking Ideas During the Freeze/Thaw Cycle

First snow at
Apple Blossom Overlook Park

This blog post is also the January 2024 edition of  my phenology series "I Spy on the Trails." Phenology is the observation of day-to-day and week-to-week changes in the natural world and the study of seasonal changes in plants and animals.

I have weather whiplash! Snow you want? Snow you get! Bitter cold you want? Bitter cold you get! Hot you want? Hot you get! Oh and did I mention days of fog. Yes, that too!

Well, perhaps you don't want, but that is exactly what January dealt us. A week of snow and then a week of bitter cold. Followed by an extended January thaw with dense fog and overnight temperatures 20-30 degrees above normal to end the month. 

One of the five strongest El Niños since 1950 is having it's way across the nation and the Driftless region is not exempt. Tie that in with a warming climate and we get a winter (or non-winter as the case may be) like this year.

This comes on the heels of last year. 2023 temperatures were sobering. - the hottest in human recorded history. The Washington Post recently had an article on this (and if you can't access it, the Verge also discussed this worrying trend).

Excellent drifts at 
Apple Blossom Overlook Park

We depend on subzero temperatures to kill off invasive insect species larvae during the winter (think emerald ash-borer). I can't say that the polar vortex that descended for a week and kept wind chills in the minus 20s and 30s is actually going to do that bug-killing now that the thaw is extending into February and predicted to bring temps in the 40s-50s.

From my observations and experience, it was a frustrating January. While I could easily hike well into the month on the firm frozen snowless trails, a small snowstorm with "just-barely" snowshoe-worthy snow and a larger storm with awesome 6-8 inches ready-made for snowshoeing were FINALLY just being enjoyed before the polar cold slowed down outdoor play.

Ice on Halfway Creek

With current diminishing snow cover and muddy trails, I am cautious on what trails I pick to hike on. When I leave muddy prints or go off-trail to avoid wet spots, I am contributing to erosion and deterioration of the trails. Traditionally, I confine my hikes to areas that are grassy, paved or graveled during a freeze-thaw cycle I wrote about recently.

Below are some hiking alternatives if the thaw continues and you are leaving muddy prints in the Driftless area. They feature grass, gravel, asphalt or concrete trails. While the freeze/thaw period will never be my favorite hiking time, it gives me a chance to still experience the outdoors and nature while preserving trails.

• Goose Island Park along the roads near Wigwam Slough and down the slough trail south of the campground.
• La Crosse Marsh Trails (access from Myrick Park near the dog park on N. East St off  La Crosse St or by the Nature Place; or at Riverside International Garden for paved trail: [Note: this trail is closed for construction from 7th St to Lang Dr where Willow Trail begins as of January 2024. No word on when the project will be completed.])
• Chad Erickson Park, La Crosse
• Riverside Park, La Crosse
• Pettibone Park roads, La Crosse
• Lytle's Landing, Brice Prairie (or other graveled bike trails in the area)
• Apple Blossom Overlook Park, Dakota MN
• Sugar Creek Bluff, Ferryville WI
• McGilvrey 7 Bridges, New Amsterdam WI
• Halfway Creek Park, Holmen WI
• Holland Sand Prairie, Holland WI
• Trempealeau Wildlife Refuge trails (especially the dike trails), Trempealeau WI
• Lake Park Walk, Winona MN
• Wagon Wheel Trail, La Crescent MN

Off-trailing at Mertes Slough

I included lots of snowy pictures from the January snow adventures I squeezed in to keep our hopes up.  If you can, think SNOW so we can get out there yet this truncated winter and enjoy some true snowplay on the trails! 

Meanwhile don't let the sloppy weather keep you inside. Hit some of the above trails.

A Month of hikes: Lytle's Landing, Brice Prairie WI; MacGilvray Seven Bridges, New Amsterdam WI; Apple Blossom Overlook Park, Dakota MN; Veteran’s Park, West Salem WI; La Crosse River Conservancy, Onalaska WI; Upper Hixon Forest, Stinky/Chicanery Trails, La Crosse WI; Mertes Slough, Winona MN; Halfway Creek, Holmen WI; La Crosse Marsh trails, La Crosse WI; Riverside Park, La Crosse WI

A pileated woodpecker visits our feeder