I found a couple of really great resources for everyone while either on Winter break, or ways to combat the heater-blues. If you are anything like me, the months of January, February and March can be anti-climatic, especially after the magic of the holiday season. So, I am placing a few more great ideas here for cold-weather OUTDOOR fun!
Nisqually Bird Walk
Each Wednesday, Phil Kelley leads a walk through the Nisqually National WIldlife Refuge. The walk is almost 4 miles and starts at 8am. Call 360-459-1499 or email scrubjay323@aol.com for more information $3 entrance fee for adults. http://1.usa.gov/uVLq5F
Take a Hike
There are plenty of lower elevation hikes that can be found, from the 6mile drive at Point Defiance, or the walk along Ruston Way or even an afternoon at Dash Point state park. Remember, if you are using a state or federal reserve there are usually admission fees or you can buy a discovery pass. If you are going in December, ask when the passes expire! Also, the Tacoma News Tribune has great hike ideas. One here can be found at: http://bit.ly/u8VqVV
Go play in the snow!
Metro Parks has a great program for family fun up to Mt. Rainier starting in January: Tickets are only $20 for a family of 4 and they transport up the mountain too! http://bit.ly/uJAkLb
Dates are:
- Jan 22 Snowshoe hike 9-4pm
- Jan 29 Snow Day 9-4pm
- Feb 11 Snow Day 9-4pm
- Feb 18 Snow Day 9-4pm
- Feb 25 Snowshoe hike 9-4pm
- Mar 3 Snow Day 9-4pm
Or, you can drive up to Mt. Rainier or Olympic National Park yourself. There is a $15 vehicle fee at both locations. See www.nps.gov/more and www.nps.gov/olym Both parks offer great, lower cost options for kids to go sledding or playing in the snow, and all in our own back yard!
Snoqualmie pass also has rates for innertubing fun that are not too hefty: http://bit.ly/suiJ7U
