Winter Activities-Rural Settings

Wintertime in a rural setting can be quite isolated at times. For the most, many of our "back roads" seem to rarely get plowed, and there is much maintenance to do by yourself: i.e. shoveling, cleaning vehicles, letting them warm up, snow blowing, etc. But many times, the view can be spectacular..the roads aren't as slushy and dirty looking because there is less traveling done on these hidden paths. Wilderness flourishes in these parts, and wildlife such as deer, and many small mammals can be frequently seen "out on the prowl" for food. Winter fun can be enjoyed almost anywhere.

There are many hills and valleys to go sledding and tubing for free. Many are within walking distance. It may be a chore to get "bundled up" at first, but many of these hills, etc. are right outside your door. You can even get snowshoes and go for a romp right down the road and not have to worry much about passing traffic. Even just a brisk walk outside can be exhilarating, soaking in the bright sights of snow covered trees, and the sounds of the many birds out on a search for food. Birdwatching has become a favorite past time of mine, and I try to keep my feeders full in winter. Cardinals are frequent, as are many other small finches, and even woodpeckers. Many people also take out their four wheelers with chains on the tires sometimes and race around the frozen tundra that seems to go on forever. The biggest mode of transportation and fun for many people is the snowmobile. I currently live in Lakeville, which is mostly cornfields and soybean fields, so there are many snowmobiles passing by house for several months.

The small amount of traffic encourages this activity, as well as sledding, and the aforementioned tubing all around the fields and valleys surrounding this small community.