Make sure to get outdoors this winter

By Brenda Erdahl

The great outdoors beckons millions of people each spring, summer, and fall, but what about winter? Spending time outdoors can help to improve mood just as much when the mercury drops as it can when temperatures are warm.

Nature has been known to help generate positive emotions such as calmness, joy, and creativity. Connectedness with nature has also been linked to lower levels of poor mental health, particularly depression and anxiety.

Fortunately, Wright County Parks and Recreation has plenty of opportunities to get you and your family out of doors and into nature this winter. Registration is required for all programs. Sign up at www.co.wright.mn.us/982/Programs. Sign up early as programs fill up fast.

Dog sledding

When: Friday, Jan. 5 4-6 p.m. and 6:30- 8:30 p.m.; Saturday, Jan. 6 8:30-10:30 a.m., 11 a.m.-1 p.m. and 2 p.m-4 p.m.

Where: Robert Ney Memorial Park, Maple Lake.

Learn about dog sledding from some of the best mushers around then experience for yourself the thrill and excitement of being pulled by a team of Siberian Huskies around Ney Park. At the end of your outing warm up with hot cocoa or cider. Space is limited to 25 participants per session. New this year, children four and under are free with a paid adult.

Lantern Ski

When: Jan. 20, 6-9 p.m.

Where: Robert Ney Memorial Park, Maple Lake

Enjoy a night of cross-country skiing on the groomed trails at Ney Park. Lanterns will be lit to help guide you through the winter wonderland. Afterwards, inside the Nature Center, there will be sweet treats and warm drinks to enjoy. Once you have your treats and drinks, you can head outside to warm your toes at the campfire.

Moonlit Snowshoe Hike

When: Jan. 25, 7-8:30 p.m.

Where: Robert Ney Memorial Park, Maple Lake

Discover winter’s wonders off the beaten path at Ney Park as you venture through areas accessible only by snowshoe in winter. Bring your own snowshoes or reserve a pair when you register.

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