Northwest Recreation

Snow can be a fun thing to have around.  Snowmen, low mysterious clouds over white frosted forests, and the smell of precipitation in the air provides an exceptional outdoor experience to those who enjoy the feeling of the cold wet stuff that makes life a little more interesting.  There are, however, a few things that should accompany you whenever possible when you are recreating in the snow where cold and wet can mean a difference between fun and freezing.  Here’s a list that is not quite comprehensive:

• Shovel:  Small folding ones are perfect for digging snow shelters, getting cars unstuck, and for building things out of the great white stuff.
• Salt:  Salt is essential when getting traction for a vehicle.
• Gloves: Cold hands aren’t a whole lot of fun.
• Flashlight:  It gets darker earlier in the winter
• Knife:  They’re indispensable
• Water:  You can dehydrate even in the winter

Again, a small list but those are just a few items to keep in mind.  Stay safe and warm out recreating in the snow!

Bluewood, located just outside of Walla Walla, WA offers its guests premier mountain views and terrain with only a short drive, quite unlike the passes in the northwest like Steven’s Pass, White Pass, etc.  Of course, a shorter drive means no getting up at the crack of dawn to head up, and that means more energy for you as you take to the runs.  Here are some stats on the mountain as taken from their website:

Overall, the mountain is very easy to navigate and a pleasure to ski or board.  They have some of the best tree skiing and boarding around, but beware: snow can be icy in the trees, and I had a problem with my board trying to keep from crashing into things.  Go after a fresh snow for the best powder and run conditions, but expect groomed runs pretty much anytime.  See you out there!

 Bluewood’s Website

Winter can get pretty dull.  After a long season of snow, January rolling around can find you in a hard spot about what to do.  What’s more, the kids aren’t always that easy to please either.  However, here are some ideas that you can do to keep your kids happy and even keep yourself entertained, too!

Snowmen:  Frosty isn’t the only one out there, and whether you make a dog, cat, person, horse, or similar structure, it’s a blast and you can even compete for the best snowman!

Igloos:   These are a load of fun and fairly easy to construct by “cheating.”  To build a strong one, heap snow into a huge pile and pack it down as tight as you can get it.  Then remove some of the middle to create the opening inside and layer it on the outside.  Put lukewarm water on top and wait for it to freeze.  Voila!  Instant igloo!

Forts:  Create a fun fort for snowball fights and hanging out in by heaping snow into long walls like bunkers.  Then construct platforms to stand on and foxholes to hide in.  You have the perfect fort to battle with!

Remember to have fun out there this wintry season!