There’s no hiding that this winter is different. As the pandemic rages on, where are you finding peace? Where are you finding renewal? It is our sincere hope that Alta Mons can be one of those places for you. From our serene hiking trails to our cozy houses to our beautiful starry skies, we want to be your place of refuge.
So, this winter, chose Alta Mons. Make the great outdoors your playground. Hike, play, run, picnic, and walk on these 850 acres of sacred and beautiful land. Our public restrooms are open 9 AM to 5 PM and are sanitized frequently. Here are some tips and ideas to get you started:
-Make sure to bring a variety of layers! Shawsville can be about 10 degrees colder than Roanoke on a typical day. A good layering system includes a base layer (form fitting, non-cotton; think long underwear), a mid-layer (fleece pullover, down jacket, hiking pants, etc.) and an outer layer (thick, wind proof jacket and pants) The key to cold weather dressing is to create a personal layer of air that you carry around with you. Trapping this air close to your body will help keep you warm!
-Don’t forget the details: hats, gloves, scarves! It’s a myth that you lose 40% of your heat through your head. You just lose heat from anywhere that isn’t covered, which may or may not include your head. Neck gaiters and mittens are great too!
-A good pack: Make sure to carry a good backpack with you. This way, you can shed layers as you warm up. You want to avoid sweating in the winter, as this ultimately makes you colder. Backpacks are also great for carrying snacks!
-Food and Hot Drinks: Pack them! Bring your thermos filled with steaming soup, coffee, hot chocolate, or whatever hot food fuels you in the winter! Snacks are key to staying warm and happy!
-If it’s snowed recently: Come prepared to have fun in the snow! Bring your sled, snow boots, and enjoy a winter wonderland! If you plan to hike to the falls, mini-crampons or spikes can be helpful for icy conditions.
-Keep moving: Exercise is a principal way to help you stay warm in the winter. If you are just looking to talk but want to stay outside, go for a walk. When you cool down after stopping for a bit, start moving again. This is key for little ones. Encourage children to run and play to help them stay warm.
-Finally, if you don’t want to leave, you don’t have to! Alta Mons has cozy homes that are available for you to spend the night and wake rested and renewed. Our houses are equipped with full kitchens, bathrooms, fire pits, and gorgeous views! It doesn’t have to be a day trip—make it a weekend getaway!
So, this winter, chose Alta Mons. Make the great outdoors your playground. Hike, play, run, picnic, and walk on these 850 acres of sacred and beautiful land. Our public restrooms are open 9 AM to 5 PM and are sanitized frequently. Here are some tips and ideas to get you started:
-Make sure to bring a variety of layers! Shawsville can be about 10 degrees colder than Roanoke on a typical day. A good layering system includes a base layer (form fitting, non-cotton; think long underwear), a mid-layer (fleece pullover, down jacket, hiking pants, etc.) and an outer layer (thick, wind proof jacket and pants) The key to cold weather dressing is to create a personal layer of air that you carry around with you. Trapping this air close to your body will help keep you warm!
-Don’t forget the details: hats, gloves, scarves! It’s a myth that you lose 40% of your heat through your head. You just lose heat from anywhere that isn’t covered, which may or may not include your head. Neck gaiters and mittens are great too!
-A good pack: Make sure to carry a good backpack with you. This way, you can shed layers as you warm up. You want to avoid sweating in the winter, as this ultimately makes you colder. Backpacks are also great for carrying snacks!
-Food and Hot Drinks: Pack them! Bring your thermos filled with steaming soup, coffee, hot chocolate, or whatever hot food fuels you in the winter! Snacks are key to staying warm and happy!
-If it’s snowed recently: Come prepared to have fun in the snow! Bring your sled, snow boots, and enjoy a winter wonderland! If you plan to hike to the falls, mini-crampons or spikes can be helpful for icy conditions.
-Keep moving: Exercise is a principal way to help you stay warm in the winter. If you are just looking to talk but want to stay outside, go for a walk. When you cool down after stopping for a bit, start moving again. This is key for little ones. Encourage children to run and play to help them stay warm.
-Finally, if you don’t want to leave, you don’t have to! Alta Mons has cozy homes that are available for you to spend the night and wake rested and renewed. Our houses are equipped with full kitchens, bathrooms, fire pits, and gorgeous views! It doesn’t have to be a day trip—make it a weekend getaway!