First Winter Hike of 2025
- Joe Almeida
- Jan 20
- 2 min read
After the New Year Holiday, I really felt the need to get outside and go for a good hike.
One of my favourite spots is the Valens Lake Conservation Area located on County Road 97 west of Hwy 6 in Southern Ontario. I've gone to Valens for years, and during the pandemic, made the decision to become a Hamilton Conservation Authority member, which would give me 365 days access to the location.
The weekend of Saturday January 4th, and Sunday January 5th, 2025 were free days where I could finally get back into the groove of hiking. On Saturday, I drove into Valens Lake - the day was cloudy and there were snow flurries and a bit of wind. I had prepared myself well clothing wise - had my trusty parka, a good pair of gloves, my new Columbia boots I bought over the holiday, and new gaiters that I also purchased over the holidays to protect my pants from becoming wet, or even freezing. I also like to take a walking/hiking pole to feel out terrain I'm not sure about, as well as provide a level of support when navigating around obstacles (like puddles or mud spots).
This was the first time I decided to hike Valens in the winter with snow on the ground. The trails themselves were in good condition and the snow was relatively packed due to previous hikers and no ice slicks. The wind did pick up at times and there were flurries, but the hikes were absolutely pleasant and at periods when there were no other hikers, the hushed environment was wonderful.
What's interesting about hiking in the winter - the conditions can literally double the energy expenditure for the same number of steps. I certainly felt it on the two hikes, and reviewing the calorie expenditure on my sport watch - I was able to confirm it. This is an important thing to consider - both in being able to maintain physically activities during the winter months, but also, being properly prepared under such conditions.
I look forward to more winter hikes, and more sublime time spent with Nature.
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