With dropping temperatures brings freezing ponds, so lace up your skates while it lasts!
All over your community you’ll find skating surfaces where people shovel the ice free of snow to create a rink. If you’re feeling adventurous, head to Indian Path Common to hike the trail to a secluded pond. There you will glide across the surface in this peaceful setting with only the birds and your hiking buddy for company. As this trail can be icy, wear good boots and be sure to walk back before the sun sets. The trail from the pond to the parking lot is approx. 30 mins, although there are various trails to explore beyond this.
Every adventure should include a tasty treat and thermos of your favourite hot beverage, so be sure to pack those or stop along the way. One local gem is the Hungry Traveller Cafe, open year round, offering mouth watering sweet and savoury snacks you can grab or better yet, cozy up with a cappuccino and stay for a meal. They’ve got something for everyone, including my personal favourite, all day breakfast!
No skates? No problem! Head to your local arena and take advantage of sponsored skates that are free of charge. Chester, Bridgewater, and Liverpool have weekly options for the month of February with times posted online. Keeping you safe is key, and helmets are mandatory on the ice so I bring my bike helmet with me. Skates and helmets are available for loan on a first come, first serve basis, so I recommend you arrive early.
Each season has its charms, how will you celebrate the magic of winter?
