Standing on the spacious deck of a Jasmine Mountain Villa home, it doesn’t take long to see Summit Creek’s wildlife corridors come to life. As if on cue, wild turkeys appear among the trees below and graceful raptors soar above, enticing you to explore outdoors.

This time of year, snow comes and goes. With temperatures teasing into the mid-fifties in February, spring fever can set in early. More warm days are certainly on the horizon, but this is the home of the “Greatest Snow on Earth.” Winter’s not over yet, and there’s plenty of cold-weather fun to be had within minutes of Summit Creek.

Enjoying cold weather is a matter of a little planning and the right gear. Before heading out, be sure to check online for the local weather forecast, as well as current road and trail conditions. Once you have a sense of the atmosphere that will greet you, remember to dress in layers and take appropriate equipment and precautions to help ensure a safe, exhilarating experience. Then, it’s time to get out there!

There are countless outdoor activity options in the area. Take advantage of neighborhood pathways with a brisk stroll, or spend a day discovering the secrets of nearby mountains. If you’re looking for more of a challenge, a winter excursion on Loafer Mountain—Summit Creek’s 10,687-foot-tall back yard—may do the trick.

Part of the joy of living in Northern Utah is the ability to view nature through all seasons, and winter offers a stark, quiet beauty. That said, any cold-weather mountain excursion requires caution and flexibility. Proceed with an, “it’s about the journey, not the destination,” attitude. Check routes before you go, and expect that snowshoes, winter traction devices, or a willingness to slog through early spring mud will be part of the adventure.

If you prefer something a bit more social and action-oriented, Sundance Mountain Resort is always less than an hour away. The Sundance events calendar offers a little something for everyone and is worth a bookmark on your browser. In the coming weeks, skiers of all ability levels can participate in the Twilight Race Series, or sign up for “Night Owling” snowshoe tours, to trek around the mountain in the dark and hear guides call to owls along the way. Of course, daytime at Sundance is all about snow sports and spectacular scenery, and it’s hard to beat perks like top-notch shopping, cultural activities, and dining in a cozy, rustic atmosphere.

Finally, if you love the idea of winter activity, but would like something a bit less exposed, Peaks Ice Arena in Provo is a great, year-round family option. Built as a 2002 Winter Olympics practice venue for ice hockey, the arena offers ice-skating lessons, youth and adult hockey, and lots of public skate time.

From the moment you step out of your front door, your winter playground awaits. Enjoy the chill while it’s still in the air!