Cold weather contradiction

Even though cold-weather activities require a few more layers of clothing, winter is a great time to explore the world around you. The Chesapeake region, from New York to Virginia, is home to plenty of sites where you can enjoy a cold weather hike, cross country ski, birdwatch, bike and so much more.

While you’re outside, you can also get to know the plants and animals that call the region home. Even though cold weather signals many animals to eat their last meal of the season and begin a long sleep, that doesn’t mean all wildlife disappears. Winter is a great time for bird watching since many trees have lost their leaves, and birds from up north come to visit until the summer. Winter is also a great time to spy many other different animals, including lion’s mane jellyfish, bald eagles and bobcats.

And even though many of the trees have lost their colors, that doesn’t mean all plants have! Many plants, such as witch hazel, northern bayberry and the aptly named winterberry, put on a show as the weather turns cool.

What’s your favorite way to enjoy the outdoors during winter? Let us know in the comments!