By Jared Shive
Defined as a state of restlessness caused by spending too much time indoors or in a small space, cabin fever is a term speculated to have been used to describe early U.S. settlers’ experiences during long winter stays in their cabin awaiting the spring thaw.
The cure: Don’t let the cold and snow dominate your health goals or mood. Return to the carefree hours of being a kid playing outside in the snow again this winter. Layer up the family for some winter adventures in Stark County. Here is a list of things to try and places to go.
Sledding Hill
Feel the rush going straight down or around the bowl in the amphitheater area of Petros Lake Park in Perry Township. The sledding hill is near the back of the park to the right of the baseball fields. (3519 Perry Drive, SW, Canton, Ohio)
Cross-Country Skiing at Quail Hollow State Park
Cross-country ski or snowshoe the gently rolling meadows, woods, and bridle trails. The rental shop is located in the lower level of the Manor House and is open when the ground is frozen with four inches of snow depth. Stark Parks will host Cross-Country Skiing Basics on Saturdays in January and February at 9 a.m. Learn about cross-country ski equipment, technique, and safety before practicing in the snow. Cost is $12 per participant for equipment rental; fees will be collected by Quail Hollow State Park by cash or check only at the program. Program is weather dependent and registered participants will be contacted prior to the program. (13480 Congress Lake Avenue, Hartville, Ohio)
A Challenging Hike or Peaceful Walk
A pair of Yaktrax (metal coils wrapped around rubber tubes) slipped over your shoes will give you a better grip on packed snow and ice so you can still get out and move or enjoy your favorite park in a new season. Stark Parks has over 90 miles of trails across Stark County, make a goal to visit a few parks and trails this winter. Stark Parks hosts a monthly High Mileage Hike and bi-weekly Fit Friday Hikes in addition to many nature and wildlife themed walks. View an entire program of indoor and outdoor guided programs at StarkParks.com.
Family Photo Shoots
Don’t forget to capture your adventure for your frame and newsfeed. You have green grass, fall colors, and now you just need some photos with winter backgrounds. Planned or impromptu photos with snow blanketing everything around you are unique. Try taking a photo in each season at the same location or with the same object. It makes for a great photo collage.
Dressing for Winter Adventures
Stay dry and warm by dressing in layers made of synthetic materials, fleece, wool, or down. These materials will dry quickly and retain body heat even if they become wet. Think about having a base layer that pulls moisture away from the skin, an insulating layer for warmth, and a water/wind resistant outer shell. Avoid cotton because it allows moisture to stay on the skin, dries slowly, and will not insulate when wet. Wear a hat and gloves to prevent heat loss and protect fingers. Choose the proper footwear. There is nothing worse than a soggy, cold sock. Choose shoes or boots with a waterproof coating, like GORE-TEX, to keep snow and water out.
Stay hydrated
Keep your energy up by taking plenty of water to stay hydrated and packing trail snacks. The average person can burn 650 calories per hour by cross country skiing and snowshoeing. A good rule for any season is 8 oz. of water for every hour outdoors.
Use sun protection all year
Sunscreen, sunglasses, and protective hats are just as important for protecting your skin and eyes in the winter as they are in the summer.
Winter Park Adventures
