S
o winter is here and your normal outdoor routine is
shelved. It is cold and there is snow and you’re just
not crazy about it.
There are many of us crazy folks that LOVE winter.
It is quiet, it is pretty and with the proper gear, you
can stay warm and cozy! Don’t have a snowmobile?
No problem. You skied once as a kid and had a bad
experience? Not to worry. You can’t afford expensive
gear right now? Gotcha covered!
Here are f ive really fun and, excuse the pun, cool things
to do in Gaylord this winter. We would love to see you!
1. Snowshoeing
Let me just say that snowshoeing is a blast. You never
need a groomed trail, you can go with 6 inches of
snow on the ground or 60 inches of snow on the
ground – snowshoes work the same. All you need are
some public or private trails, a pair of boots, a hat,
gloves and snowshoes. Poles are optional. I have a pair
of snowshoes that are 20-years-old and work just as
well now as they did then. Snowshoes don’t go out of
style, except for maybe bindings, but the technology
is the same. You walk on the snow. You get a great
workout and you can literally go anywhere. Once
you start moving, you warm right up. Most novices
actually overdress. With no leaves on the trees, you see
vistas, valleys and streams that you would never see
other times of the year, which is just cool.
2. Take a Downhill Ski Lesson
Most non-skiers have tried downhill skiing and had
a bad experience or just gotten out of it. Well, take a
lesson. Both Otsego Resort and Treetops Resort have
rental equipment and experienced, fun ski instructors.
This is a great activity to do with a friend or two
or your children. Usually, within a few hours, the
instructor will have you stopping comfortably, making
gentle turns and safely getting on and off the chairlift.
As a long time skier, knowing the basics is worth the
price of a lesson in enjoyment. Equipment has come
a long way since I was a kid (hint – think 1970). It is
more comfortable, warmer and carved skis literally turn
themselves.
PHOTO COURTESY OF GAYLORD TOURISM BUREAU