Despite the lack of snowfall in the southern part of the Upper Peninsula, in the coming weeks temperatures will drop significantly and remain below or near freezing for the next four months. And as we all know, snow is likely to follow.

The winter months can be challenging for many folks, especially when it comes to staying active. The negative correlation between temperatures and activity levels has been referred to as the “winter slump” by some, while others jokingly claim they are hibernating with the bears.

But this decrease in activity levels has several explanations.

Thanks to daylight saving time, it now gets dark at roughly 5 p.m. — the same time that many people clock out from a day of work. With very little time being spent in the sun, our intake levels of vitamin D — which helps ensure good bone health — decrease. 

The lack of sun exposure can also throw off the autonomic processes that regulate your sleep schedule. When you walk outside and see that it is dark, your internal clock perceives it to be time to rest. This leads to increased production of melatonin, which is the sleep hormone. 

The winter season also has many stresses and anxieties. From preparing for holiday celebrations to cooking extravagant meals, and maybe even a case of the post-holiday blues, it is normal for people to become rundown and exhausted during this time of year.

But I am here to encourage you to remain active throughout the upcoming winter months. Thankfully for us, the Upper Peninsula is home to an abundance of outdoor recreation and wilderness areas that are waiting to be explored. 

Not only are outdoor activities a great way to temporarily unplug from the anxieties that accompany everyday life, especially during the holiday season, but they are also a great form of exercise and meditation that can be enjoyed.

According to a research study published in Nature Scientific Reports, a person’s sense of well-being is greatly enhanced by walking outside for two hours a week. That is just a 20-minute walk every day.

For me, there is nothing like the boost of happiness that accompanies a deep breath of fresh air. However, the frigid temperatures that accompany our winters may discourage many from participating in any form of outdoor recreation. But, there are many ways to prepare yourself for the cold so you can enjoy your time spent outdoors.

Depending on the length and difficulty of your outdoor adventure, the best way to physically prepare yourself for the weather may vary. The Michigan Department of Natural Resources recommends wearing multiple, thin layers of clothing and proper footwear no matter the outdoor activity. Remember, you can always take a layer off.

If you are just taking a walk around the block, you likely will not have to prepare yourself beyond wearing proper attire. However, if you are feeling up to it, there are several trail systems in the area that offer a more woodsy experience. These trails vary in length and should be prepared for accordingly. 

There are several important items that you should have with you on all of your trail outings, especially those of greater distance. We hiking folk call these items the “10 Essentials.” These essentials include an appropriate amount of food and water, first aid supplies, a multi-tool and fire-starting instruments — all of which fit nicely into a hiking pack. 

I get it. It may seem silly to pack these items, especially if you are only doing a mile-long hike in the woods. But, Mother Nature can be quite unpredictable. It is always better to over-prepare than to under-prepare.

And considering that it does get dark much earlier now, be sure to carry a headlamp or flashlight if you plan to walk in the afternoon hours. 

Lastly, any type of mapping device is essential for a stress-free adventure. While keeping a physical map as a backup, I primarily use an app called AllTrails to track myself and my outdoor activity. AllTrails automatically locates trails in your area, providing you with a map of your chosen trail that automatically locates your position in real time. It is a great tool that gives you peace of mind while exploring a new wilderness area.

Not sure where to start? Both Escanaba and Gladstone have walkable downtown areas. I like to follow the walking paths that go through both of the city’s parks, although as the temperatures continue to drop the wind coming off of the lake will become much more chilling. 

If I am looking for a good hike, I will head to the Days River Trail System in Gladstone and do a few loops. While cross-country skiers will be present during the winter months, enough space is usually left for those who like to snowshoe and walk. Remember to steer clear of the cross-country loipe — the track in which they ski.

But if you are looking to escape the area on the weekend, Marquette is overflowing with outdoor recreation options. One of the many reasons I chose to attend Northern Michigan University is the easy access to trail systems in the winter.

Adventure is waiting for both you and me during the winter months, so be sure to step outside and experience it.

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Andie Balenger is a native of Gladstone and is currently attending Northern Michigan University. Her column focuses on college life and runs Thursdays in the Daily Press.