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Keys to enjoying yourself in the Adirondacks when the weather is "brisk"

01/23/2013

This week we definitely have some cold weather to deal with, but we can deal with it if we use some common sense.

On the positive side, it's easy to make good artificial snow and hold ice. And after all, that's what we're noted for in the winter and makes for better outside experiences, in general.

The other side of the coin, though, presents conditions that are uncomfortable if you are not prepared. We understand that.

So what to do about it, especially since the cold snap that has hit the entire east/northeast will not relent for a few more days?

Over the years, your blogger has spent more than a lot of time in these elements. Here's what enables me to get the most from cold weather.

1) Dress in layers and protect exposed skin. THIS IS A MUST. Hats, helmets, goggles, neck gaiters can get the job done. These are your tools against the elements. This is probably not the time to look cool with headbands, one-piece suits and designer shades.

2) When skiing, boarding, skating, snow shoeing, or any activity where you are usually outside for extended periods of time, you should restrict your outdoor time to smaller increments. For instance, I've skied many days in these conditions. I take no more than 2 runs at a time before heading into the lodge.

At Whiteface, we have the benefit of riding the gondola. When you're in there with 3-4 others, you'll be surprised how much warmer it is because everyone's adrenaline and metabolism is working harder to stay warm.

On the ride up, adjust boots if needed and buckle them in the ready-to-go position. As soon as you leave the cabin, get into your gear and go. Movement = warmth. This is NOT the time to remove gloves and figure out buckle settings.

Once you're at the top of Little Whiteface you are ready for more. If you can only get to the mid station and have to go in, just do it. Spend 5-10 minutes inside with a warm drink or a pit stop and then head to the base for another gondola trip.

At lunch, take your boots off. That has always worked for me in making sure my feet are in good shape for more skiing.

3) In cold weather, participate with a friend and keep an eye on each other for little white spots on your cheeks (frostbite).

4) Clear and cold means sunny. Do your activity in sunshine. Vitamin D is still available in cold weather!

Upon your return to Mirror Lake Inn, tea and chocolate chip cookies by the fireplace at 3:30 warms everything.

Downstairs in our spa, look into our jacuzzi and sauna....maybe even a few laps in the pool. Or make an appointment for a signature treatment. Afterward, you'll be in good shape for the evening and the next day.

5) If skating on the rink in front of our Cottage Cafe, you'll be just across the street from the hotel. And of course, you can always duck inside the Cottage to warm up.

If skating at the oval, no problem either. The changing room is right on the track. Easy to get inside frequently.

6) Same if cross country skiing or snow shoeing. Just make sure you don't wander too far from the lodge.

7) If walking in the village, be sure to have good socks and boots. Visit a ski/board shop. They have the best socks for walking around Main St. And boots with a little elevation from the sidewalk (no, not heels:) that extend above the ankles are helpful.

Follow this advice and I think you can enjoy yourself when it's cold. Think like a psychologist, meaning, this weather is definitely better than the other extreme of rain and 40 degrees. 

Yeah....in comparison we'll take this every time.

Have safe fun out there and remember....protect exposed areas!!