WEEKENDER BLOG

After days of below-zero wind chills, it may seem a challenge to embrace Iowa’s winter and spend any length of time outside. But fun winter activities abound in the Cedar Valley and it’s a great opportunity to make memories, get a little exercise and have fun with family and friends.

Need a few ideas? Here are just a few activities and events you might enjoy this winter.

ACTIVITIES

Cross-Country Skiing
Enjoy wildlife and scenery along the Cedar Valley Trails and burn off over 500 calories per hour (according the Iowa DNR). Don't have skis? Rent our purchase skis from Europa Cycle & Ski. 

Ice Skating
Pack your hot cocoa and head to Gateway Park in Cedar Falls. The outdoor ice rink is ready and open every day including evenings. Don't have ice skates? The Runner's Flat is only a couple blocks away from the park and rents ice skates. If you'd prefer to skate indoors, Young Arena in Waterloo offers public skating. Visit Waterloo Leisure Services to find out their hours.

Snowshoeing
Snowshoeing easily extends your hiking and running into winter and is a sport with a short learning curve if you've never tried it. Visit with The Runner's Flat, Hartman Reserve Nature Center or Europa Cycle & Ski about your needs and they'll rent snowshoes to you and your family. Need a place to snowshoe? Enjoy the rolling terrain of Hartman Reserve Nature Center or the Cedar Valley Trails. For the latter, be sure to follow the rules of the trail and avoid hiking into the trails set by cross-country skiers.  

Ice Fishing
These days, ice fishing shelters are going up daily on Prairie Lakes. Whether you use a bucket or a shelter, ALWAYS check the ice and keep these guidelines in mind from the Iowa DNR before you head out. They also keep updated fishing reports on their website. 

Silo Ice Climbing
Maybe you've already read the stories or experienced ice climbing for yourself...in Cedar Falls. You haven't? Take a moment to check out the details of Silo Ice Climbing. It's always a challenge but even a beginner can give it a try. 

EVENTS

Moonlit Snowshoe Walk
January 23, 6-7 pm
Hike through the woods of Hartman Reserve Nature Center with a naturalist and then warm up after with hot cocoa, board games and a warm fire. Feel free to bring your own snacks. $8/person.

Winterfest
January 24, noon - 3 pm
Stop by Prairie Lakes South and enjoy snowshoeing, cross-country skiing and ice fishing education. Don't have equipment? That's okay. Equipment will be provided by Hartman Reserve Nature Center, Europa Cycle & Ski, The Runner's Flat and the Walleye Club. All activities and refreshments will be FREE!

Iowa Games Snowshoe Race and Family Fun Hike
January 30, 7:30 am onsite registration, race begins at 9 am
Have you been using snowshoes for your running this winter? Consider entering the Iowa Games' snowshoe race at Hartman Reserve Nature Center. Or, participate in the Family Fun Hike. Registration is required for both events. Check out the details at Iowa Games.

Iowa Games Fat Bike Race
January 30, 1pm
The Iowa Games are for every Iowan, no matter your level of experience. If you ride a fat bike, consider entering the race which will be held at George Wyth State Park. Registration is required. You can find details at Iowa Games.

Maple Syrup Festival
March 5 and 6, 7 am - 1 pm
It's an annual tradition at Hartman Reserve Nature Center. Watch how maple syrup is made and then enjoy eating flapjacks from Chris Cakes at the interpretive center. Save $1 per ticket by buying in advance from Hartman Reserve. Adults: $8, Youth: $4 and children under 2 are free. 

For any winter activities held outdoors for an extended period of time, be sure to dress for the weather and in layers. Follow these simple guidelines from the Iowa DNR. Want to warm up or find more ideas for winter fun (whether inside or outside)? Stop by the Cedar Falls Visitor Center at 6510 Hudson Road. We’re open 7 days a week and we’d be happy to help you! 319-268-4266 or 800-845-1955.