Front Page with Lou Dzierzak

Everyone has their favorite local places for outdoor pursuits. Trail running loops that wind through urban nature centers. River bottoms are ideal for fat tire bikes, which float over the loose floodplain sand. Out and back hiking trails are just long enough to clear your soul of the day’s stresses.

We’ve lost track of how many times we’ve covered those landscapes. You’ve probably bragged that you could cover that daily 3-mile loop with your eyes closed. That boast feels true from April to November.

In December, Mother Nature throws some new elements into the mix. Frigid cold temperatures, ice, snow, and shorter days between sunrise and sunset change everything. That trail running loop looks completely different when you are navigating by a bright headlamp beam.

In some nature centers, the familiar hiking trails are transformed into meticulously groomed cross-country ski routes. The hills that once slowed your walking pace now add a thrill with a skinny ski downhill run. When the leaves fall, the thick forests and wetlands that conceal the presence of a lake or river 25 yards from the main trail dramatically alter the sight lines. A narrow trail under a canopy of tall tree branches in the summer reveals snow-covered mounds and partially frozen waterways during the winter.

In nature centers, state and national parks, exploring off trail where permitted is a way to reconnect with familiar landscapes. Strapping on a pair of snowshoes and meandering through marshes or wetlands that are inaccessible in summer months helps you see the world from different perspectives. Following tracks left by birds, raccoons, or rabbits rekindles a sense of wonder. Wander around places you can’t get to easily in June, July, and August.

The writers in this issue celebrate the winter season. Emily Stone’s “Wild Notes” reminds you to slow down and spend time looking at the details around you. Timothy Bauer’s Mirror Lake profile describes how a peaceful paddling destination changes into a scenic cross-country ski jaunt.

Winter camping doesn’t have to be a toe-numbing, miserable experience. Jim Force profiles the family behind Snowtrekker Tents. Think winter glamping.

In addition to appropriate technical apparel, enduring cold temperatures certainly takes a little courage. But getting outside is worth the effort. Read Ben Petty’s “Triple D Endurance Race - Iowa’s Winter Circus,” and you will circle next year’s registration date on your 2026 calendar.

Winter also renews traditions that are uniquely Midwestern traditions. Polar plunges get a “what the heck eye roll” from people in other parts of the country. (Acknowledging that jumping into freezing waters is also a favorite pastime of Scandinavian folks). Get inspired to add a polar plunge to your adventure bucket list by reading MJ Hessert’s Vinterbading: The Ultimate Winter Sport.

Embrace winter. Get outside. Rent a pair of snowshoes, a fat bike, or cross-country skis. Pack a sled and snowshoe or cross-country ski to a favorite BWCA lake. Those familiar trails you explore during warmer months will look different, covered in pillows of fresh snow.

Winter is magic.

ldzierzak@formula4media.com