Chase the Winter Blues Away: Winter Wellness Starts Outside
January can feel long. The holidays are over, the sun sets early, and motivation can be… hard to find. But here’s the good news: winter wellness doesn’t require a gym membership or a tropical vacation. Sometimes, the best way to shake seasonal blues is simply getting outside — even (and especially) when it’s cold.
Fresh air, movement, and connection to nature can do wonders for your mental health, and Colorado Springs makes winter adventure more accessible than you might think. Whether you’re brand new to cold-weather exploring or a seasoned snow lover, here’s how to get outside this winter — comfortably, affordably, and with confidence.
❄️ Why Winter Wellness Matters
Shorter days and colder temps can impact energy levels, mood, and motivation. Getting outside helps increase vitamin D exposure, reduces stress, boosts mood, and reminds us that winter doesn’t mean hibernation — it just means adapting.
And no, you don’t have to summit a peak to feel the benefits.
🥾 Winter Activities for Every Level
Beginner-Friendly Ways to Get Outside
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Snowshoeing on mellow trails – Easy to learn, no lift tickets required, and great for quiet winter wandering.
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Winter walking at local parks & open spaces – Garden of the Gods, Red Rock Canyon, and neighborhood trails are perfect when snow is light.
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Short winter hikes with traction – Even a mile outside can reset your brain.
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Nature center strolls – A great option for families or anyone easing into winter movement.
For the More Experienced Crowd
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Snowshoeing longer routes
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Winter hiking with elevation
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Cold-weather trail runs
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Backcountry adventures (with proper training and safety checks)
No matter your level, the key is choosing something that feels doable — not overwhelming.
🧤 Layering: The Secret to Enjoying Winter
Cold weather doesn’t have to be miserable. The difference between “this is awful” and “this is amazing” usually comes down to layers.
Before heading out, check out these MER guides:
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👉 How to Choose the Right Jacket for Mountain Sports
https://www.merecyclers.com/jacket-for-mountain-sports/ -
👉 Winter Hiking Gear Essentials
https://www.merecyclers.com/winter-hiking-gear/
Think: moisture-wicking base layer, insulating mid-layer, and a weather-proof outer shell. Add warm socks, gloves, and a hat, and you’re set.
🧗 Microspikes: Small Tool, Big Confidence
If you plan on winter hiking, microspikes are a game-changer. They slip over your boots and provide traction on icy or packed-snow trails — helping prevent slips and making winter hikes way less stressful.
Pro tips:
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Put them on before the trail gets icy
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Practice walking in them on flat ground
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Remove them on dry pavement to avoid wear
💚 Keep Winter Affordable with Used Gear
Winter gear can get expensive — fast. That’s where MER comes in. Shopping used allows you to grab high-quality snowshoes, jackets, boots, traction devices, and layers without the sticker shock.
Our staff can help you find the right fit, explain layering options, and build a winter kit that works for your goals and your budget. Sustainable gear = sustainable stoke.
🌲 Get Outside With Community (and Nonprofits!)
If motivation is tough solo, community helps. Several Colorado Springs–based nonprofits regularly host outdoor events, group hikes, and accessible adventures throughout winter and into January:
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UpaDowna – Inclusive outdoor experiences designed for everyone
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Trails and Open Space Coalition (TOSC) – Stewardship events and ways to engage with local trails
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Rocky Mountain Field Institute (RMFI) – Volunteer trail work and stewardship opportunities
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Blackpackers – Community-driven outdoor experiences
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Colorado Mountain Club (CMC) – Skills courses, hikes, and group outings
Even if exact January events vary year to year, these organizations consistently offer ways to get involved, move your body, and meet like-minded outdoor folks.
⚠️ Winter Safety Reminder
Before heading out, always:
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Check weather conditions
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Tell someone your plan
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Carry water, snacks, and layers
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Check avalanche conditions via CAIC:
👉 https://avalanche.state.co.us/
Even mellow winter outings deserve respect.
❄️ Final Thoughts: Winter Is What You Make It
You don’t need to “love winter” to benefit from it. You just need the right layers, the right gear, and a reason to step outside. Start small, go often, and let winter wellness work its magic.
If you need gear, advice, or just a little encouragement, stop by MER. We’ve got the goods — and the stoke — to help you chase those seasonal blues away. 🏔️✨
Photo by Amy Nicole Photography