Living life on the lakeshore this winter? Here’s a quick and easy guide on how to make the most of the Minnesota cold this year while staying safe.
First and foremost: ice skating. As long as the ice is thick enough, it doesn't get much better than ice skating in your own backyard! If the opportunity presents itself, you can even demarcate a section of flat, clear ice to set up a rink. From there, you’re free to start practicing figure skating, set up some goals and play hockey, or just glide around. For an extra-quality skating experience, you can flood the rink occasionally to make sure the surface is especially even, although that does call for a little extra maintenance.
If you’re feeling especially brave, cut a hole in the ice and jump in for a polar plunge. It’s an incredibly invigorating experience and guaranteed to be the hardest thing you do all day, making the rest of the day feel like a breeze. Plus, it can be a great bonding experience when done with friends. That being said, if you opt to do this, make sure you follow local guidelines and have a way to warm back up quickly afterward. Otherwise, it can be very dangerous. Take proper precautions, and you may reap the rewards of this recreation, including an enhanced mood, increased energy, and muscle recovery.
For those who prefer more peaceful pastimes, ice fishing is the perfect way to get some fresh air (and maybe even some fresh food) without feeling trapped inside. If this is your adventure of choice, make sure to stock up on the right supplies now, before snow blankets the roads, and come up with a way to keep warm out on the ice. If you can do that, they say there’s nothing more satisfying than pulling a fish up through the ice!
If you own a dock, make sure to prevent it from experiencing "ice jacking," or pressure buildup from surrounding ice. If it’s not a permanent dock, we recommend storing removable sections for the winter. Keeping native plant life intact throughout the winter can also help protect against erosion, so if you had big landscaping plans, maybe hold off until spring. While you’re at it, don’t forget to make your home’s interior extra cozy. It’s always nice to have a place where you can enjoy that beautiful lake from a distance.
In the Land of 10,000 Lakes, taking advantage of the water during the colder winter months can make the season feel like one in a million instead. If you don't currently live on lakefront property but want to, please reach out. I'd love to chat about how to get you on the perfect slice of nature.
