The weather outside is chilly and cold,
But the beauty around is a sight to behold.
The snowflakes fall with a quiet grace,
Blanketing the world in a soft embrace.

The trees stand tall with their frosty crown,
While icicles shimmer, hanging down.
Though the wind may bite and the air may freeze,
The winter’s magic is sure to please.

What You Might See, Hear, Touch, and Smell: walk through the pages of Nonna’s adventures in winter and you will activate your senses. Try to engage your senses and discuss what you experience.

See
The woods look completely different in winter.Take the time to explore the outdoors. The trees stand tall with their bare branches, dusted with snow, while the ground is blanketed in a thick layer of white. As you walk, you might spot animal tracks leading off the trail, or maybe even a squirrel darting up a tree! Look up, and you might catch a glimpse of birds flying through the bare branches, their feathers bright against the snow. The low winter sun might even make everything shimmer and sparkle, as if the forest is wrapped in a layer of diamonds.

Hear
The sounds of a winter hike are soft and peaceful. The crunch of snow beneath your boots is the loudest noise you’ll hear, but if you stop and listen closely, you might hear the quiet calls of birds, the rustling of trees, or the distant drip of melting snow. If you’re really quiet, you might even hear the sound of a squirrel scampering up a tree or the snap of a twig underfoot. The cold air makes the world feel still, and every sound seems to echo, making the forest feel even more magical.

Touch
The sensation of walking through the snow is one of the best parts of a winter hike. You’ll feel the crunch of fresh powder beneath your feet or the cold, crisp air against your skin. If you pause to touch the trees, you might notice how the bark feels rough and cool to the touch, or how the branches may be dusted with snow. If you’re lucky enough to catch a snowflake on your glove, take a moment to marvel at its delicate shape and frozen beauty. And if you’re exploring the forest after a snowfall, be prepared for a few snowball fights and the joy of building snow forts!

Smell
The winter air smells clean and fresh, with a hint of pine from the trees and maybe the scent of earth beneath the snow. As you walk, the smell of wood and cold air fills your lungs, making you feel even more alive. You might also catch a whiff of something sweet—perhaps a pinecone that’s been warmed by the sun, or the distant scent of wood smoke from a nearby cabin. It’s amazing how the simple smells of the woods can make you feel cozy, even in the coldest of temperatures.

Why Winter Hikes are So Special: Nonna and her grandchildren love to explore the outdoors in all seasons. Think about ways you can embrace the winter months. 

Taking a winter hike is a great way to embrace the beauty of the season. It’s about more than just getting out and moving; it’s about connecting with nature, discovering the secrets of the snowy woods, and appreciating the quiet magic of winter. Whether you’re trekking through deep snow or walking along a crisp, frozen trail, you’ll always find something to inspire your imagination.

So next time you’re bundled up in your winter gear and looking for an adventure, why not take a hike in the woods? Who knows what you’ll discover under the winter sky, from animal tracks to glittering icicles, and all the wonders in between.