Some like to huddle under a blanket and watch a movie or read a book when winter is at its coldest, but freezing temperatures provide seasonal opportunities to see the world in a whole new light.Laura Weinand

With high precipitation and temperatures under 32 degrees Fahrenheit come blankets of snow. Invigorate your body instead of the heating system.

Although snow sports such as skiing and snowboarding can be associated with high costs, other outdoor opportunities prevail.

Snowshoeing not only costs less but also allows one to witness scenery at a slower pace and to take in more of the scenery.

Snowshoes are available for rent at the Nordic Center at the Summit at Snoqualmie where you can also acquire a day pass to hike the mountain’s cross country trails. The trails at the Summit at Snoqualmie extend for miles, taking you past pristine views of iced-over lakes.

You can also rent snowshoes at Stevens Pass and Crystal Mountain Resort onsite or at REI, Alpine Ascents, and many other locations in advance. Different places to snowshoe can be found on the the Washington Trails Association website.

Snow melts and fills the streams that lead into our water basin. Not only does this benefit us, but many other ecological systems. The environment is constantly providing us with resources, but people are not constant in their appreciation for it. Out in the wilderness, the majesty and importance of our earth becomes more obvious.