Many people may stay inside because it's getting cooler, but those who want to be surprised and go for a walk will find a whole world of strange things to do. Many "parkies," another word for people who go to parks, say that this time of year is especially magical. 

Nothing can beat the quiet, the peace, and the fact that it all came as a surprise. So, here are some of our favorite, unique winter activities that you can do in Delaware. 

1. Get out for some Winter Sports.

Image Source: Glenna Haug

Snow is rare on the Delmarva Peninsula because it is so close to the ocean. People in the north are more likely to see snow than people on the Delmarva Peninsula. But when we get a lot of snow that stays around, you can see your favorite parks in a new light. 

This winter, have fun snowshoeing or cross-country skiing! Use the fact that our state is almost entirely flat to your advantage, and try snowboarding or downhill skiing if you have access to a hill. In this area, you can always find a path that is in perfect condition.

2. Rekindle your passion for birding.

Image Source: Ian Bollen

Not all birds choose to spend the winter in the tropics. Many of them choose to spend the season on the Delmarva Peninsula. Waterfowl like green-winged teal and buffleheads are common in rivers, and snow geese are common in fields that have been left empty. 

During the winter, you might see purple finches, dark-eyed juncos, and pine siskins, all small birds. Grosbeaks are also sometimes seen. If you've never gone birding before, don't worry. This is the best time of year to start. Since the tree limbs have been stripped of their leaves, they are more accessible than ever to find and identify.

3. Treat yourself to some Rayleigh scattering.

Image Source: Delaware Bay

Uncommon Knowledge: Contrary to what most people think, sunsets in the winter tend to have more vivid colors than those in the summer. The different colors we see in the sky are caused by Rayleigh scattering. 

Parts of the visible light spectrum are reflected back into space by aerosols, molecules, and other similar things. This means that only some colors reach our eyes. During the winter, the air is clear and dry and doesn't have nearly as many tiny particles as it does in the summer. When there are fewer particles, the light doesn't need to be filtered as much. This lets more colors reach our eyes.

Use this change, and since the days are getting shorter, go to bed earlier. You can watch the moon rise and enjoy some beautiful sunsets before dinner.

4. Hit the snow and go hiking.

Image Source: Joshua Reddekopp

A big mug of hot coffee, many layers of warm clothes, and the cold, crisp winter air all at the same time Hiking in the winter is a lot of fun! 

When winter comes, trails take on a whole new look. The bugs that bothered them all summer are gone, there are fewer people on them, and the vastness of the landscape can be seen in all its glory because the leaves are off the trees. So, pick your next outdoor adventure this weekend! 

5. Look up at the beauty of the night sky.

Image Source: Ryan Jacobson

It gets darker earlier in the winter, making it a great time to look at the stars. You won't have to take a nap in the middle of the day to see the night sky like you do when the sun goes down around 9 p.m. during the summer. 

When the humidity goes down, the haze and the glare go down. This makes the landscape clearer and easier to see. During the winter, the most noticeable constellations are Orion, Cetus, Perseus, and Taurus. 

Even though our national parks close at night, many have educational stargazing events during the winter. You will also have access if you stay in one of our cabins, cottages, or campsites, and it will be available 24/7!

Final Thoughts

Winter may be a tempting season to curl up in our homes. But if you get bored, there will always be something to do. Go back to this list and tick off each item on your to-do list, and your winter season will be a blast!

Looking to buy a home this winter? Feel free to contact us at Loft Realty, and we’ll find the best deals for you.