Winter Activities

The winter season offers a different perspective of a park and the life inside it. A walk on a trail can be a quiet tranquil getaway with a winter crisp and peaceful surrounding. Take advantage of the snowy solitude and get outside on your own or join Stark Parks for new ways to explore the snow. There is plenty to do including cross country skiing, snowshoeing, and sledding.  Don’t let the cold and snow dominate your health goals or mood!

Cabin Fever … A state of restlessness caused by spending too much time indoors or in a small space. The term is speculated to have first been used to describe early U.S. settlers’ experiences during long winter stays in their cabin awaiting the spring thaw.

Cross-Country Skiing at Quail Hollow Park

Cure #1:  Cross-country skiing rentals will happen if enough snow is on the ground at Quail Hollow Park.   Sign up for Winter Activity Alerts using the form below.

If proper weather conditions (3 to 4 inches of snow) are present, an email will be sent with open rental hours.  Registration is not needed, all rentals are first come, first served.

Cross-Country Ski Rental Pricing

$20-Adult first time rental each season.

$10-Adult returning renter.

$10-Age 12 and under.  Our equipment sizes fit those 4 feet tall and up.

$5-12 and under returning renter.

All rentals are 2 hours. Cash or Check.  Trails are not groomed for skiing.  We do not make our own snow. 

Boot sizes range from Youth 11 ½ (European 28) to Men's 14M (European 49)

Other popular locations for on your own cross-country skiing include Tam O'Shanter Park, Olde Muskingum Trail, Iron Horse Trail, and the Nickel Plate Trail.

Smiling Woman on Skis

Snowshoeing

Cure #2: Interested in snowshoeing?  Intimidated by the looks? Don’t be!  Try walking on snow in the winter on new state-of-the-art Eva snowshoes that are easy to put on over your boots and very lightweight!  Fits shoe sizes Women's 7 to Men's 14.

We have one pair of kids snow shoes otherwise they’d have to fit in the above EVA snowshoe sizes

Use the sign up form below to receive alerts when proper conditions exist at Quail Hollow Park.  Registration is first come, first-served.  $10 adult rental for two hours.

Snowshoe Rental Pricing

Adult $10

12 and under $5

Snowshoe hike guided programs may also occur if scheduling and conditions allow.

Sledding

Cure #4: Feel the rush sledding straight down or around the bowl in the amphitheater area of Petros Lake Park in Perry Twp. The sledding hill is near the back of the park to the right of the baseball fields.
Petros Lake Park, 3519 Perry Dr. SW, Canton 44706

A designated sledding area at Tam O’Shanter Park in Jackson Twp. also provides a short downhill thrill.  The sledding hill is located northwest of the clubhouse off Hills & Dales Rd. near the upper parking lot.  The area is a short walk from the parking lot.
Tam O’Shanter Park, 5055 Hills & Dales Dr. NW, Canton 44708

Hiking and Dressing for the Weather

Cure #5: Put on your winter gear and head out on the trails. You will probably find the winter backdrop great for a family photo or selfie during your adventure.  

Dropping temperatures and snowy landscapes mean you will need to spend a little more time preparing for winter adventures. Keep these winter tips in mind before your next visit.

Stay dry and warm by dressing in layers made out of synthetic materials, fleece, wool, or down. These materials will dry quickly and retain body heat even if they become wet. Think about having a base layer that pulls moisture away from the skin, an insulating layer for warmth, and a water/wind resistant outer shell. Avoid cotton because it allows moisture to stay on the skin, dries slowly, and will not insulate when wet. Wear a hat and gloves to prevent heat loss and protect fingers.

Choose the proper footwear. There is nothing worse than soggy, cold socks. Shoes or boots with a waterproof coating to help keep snow and water out are best.  Traction or slip on spikes that go over your shoes or boots help increase traction for walking, hiking, or running.

Keep your energy up by taking plenty of water to stay hydrated and packing trail snacks. The average person can burn 650 calories per hour by cross country skiing and snowshoeing. A good rule for any season is 8 oz. of water for every hour outdoors.

Use sun protection all year! Sunscreen, sunglasses, and protective hats are just as important for protecting your skin and eyes in the winter as they are in the summer.

 

Sign Up for Winter Activity Alerts

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