10 fun trips to keep you moving this winter
Published 2:38 pm Wednesday, November 2, 2011
Fall and winter temperatures may force some to stay indoors, creating the potential for bad things to happen such as weight gain or isolation. Senior centers across Snohomish County try to combat this urge to hibernate by offering lots of fun trips and hikes.
Here’s a smattering of what’s out there to stimulate your body and mind and get you moving.
The City of Everett Parks and Recreation Department offers lots of outdoor options. Go to http://tinyurl.com/falloutdoors:
• Leavenworth: Nov. 11. Go to this Bavarian-style town and take short walks along the Wenatchee River or at Peshastin Pinnacles and at the Ski Hill. Lunch at O’Grady’s Pantry in the Sleeping Lady Resort. Total hiking is four miles.
• Anacortes tripleheader: Nov. 15. Explore three trails near Anacortes as the trip includes short hikes at Heart Lake, Little Cranberry Lake and Sugarloaf. Total hiking about five miles.
• Lummi Island: Nov. 19. A small, county-run ferry boat makes the six-minute crossing to Lummi from west of Bellingham for visitors to discover the island’s charm along a 7-mile loop often along the shoreline.
• Sun Mountain Ski Weekend: Jan. 10. Be transported to Sun Mountain Lodge in the Methow Valley and spend the day skiing, ice skating or sleigh riding or relaxing in the hot tub at the lodge. Registration includes transportation, lodging and ski lesson. Register by Dec. 11.
• Whistler and Callaghan Valley Nordic Adventure: Feb. 24. Explore the new Whistler Olympic Nordic Center and spend evenings at the new Whistler Hi ‘Hostel located 10 minutes from Whistler Village. Registration includes three days of trail passes, transportation and dorm lodging. A planning meeting will take place of Feb. 9.
The Edmonds Senior Center lists trips in their recent newsletter or call them for more information at 425-774-5555 or access their newsletter at http://southcounty seniorcenter.org/Newsletter.aspx:
• Padilla Bay: Dec. 8. No elevation gain on this walk to Padilla Bay. An easy six miles and bring binoculars for bird-watching.
• Reifel Island Bird Sanctuary: Dec. 29. Easy four miles. Bring passport and money for entrance fee and dinner.
The Lynnwood Senior Center offers two outdoor recreation guides, one for October/November and a winter guide. Access them at http://www.ci.lynnwood.wa.us/Content/Community.aspx?id=107.
• Bellingham: Nov. 9. The journey begins on a waterfront trail and continues on a variety of trails throughout Bellingham for all levels of hikers. After hiking, gelato or ice cream in Fairhaven.
• Backyard Trails: Nov. 23. Walk to Mill Creek Town Center for lunch and back. 5.5 miles round trip. Mostly level, gravel and paved trails. Also, Dec 14 and 21.
• Moonlight Snowshoe and Fondue: Jan 6. Follow the Mountain Loop Highway under the full moon. At the end of the trail enjoy fondue. Hot drinks will be available on the bus. Five to six miles round trip. Sign-up Dec 8.
