I know that with Super Bowl Fever going around (Go Broncos!), some of you may have forgotten that Valentine’s Day is quickly approaching. Sure, you could go the traditional route, gifting your sweetheart a bouquet of roses, fancy chocolates, jewelry and/or expensive dinner out, or you could wow your date with a romantic day outside that will be not only memorable but affordable. If you need a little more convincing as to why your Valentine’s Day should be centered more around experiences than things, read THIS article.

If you are ready to opt in favor of getting outside on this day of love, the Mountain Park is the perfect place to take your special someone! With 22 inches of fresh snow blanketing our forest, not only is your romantic scene set (and instagram worthy), it is a wonderful time to try snowshoeing; a fun, and easy adventure that is sure to get you and your partner’s hearts beating!

• Snowshoes will be available to rent ($5 dollars a pair for the day) from 9-11am Sunday the 14th at the Horseshoe Lodge. If  you have never snowshoed before and would feel more comfortable learning in a group setting, we have a guided Sweetheart Snowshoe that starts at 11:30 with one of our experienced Rangers.

Somethings to remember, thoughtful details make good memories.

A romantic outdoor adventure is at least as much about the little details as it is about the destination, especially if the weather isn’t perfect. So here are some tips to keep in mind as you plan your romantic outing:

• Take a few photos but for the most part, unplug. Be present in nature and with your date.
• Bring a sleeping pad so that you have a warm, dry place to sit next to each other. A light blanket never hurt either!
• Pack a thermos of hot chocolate or tea to share.
• Bring hand and feet warmers for your date.
• Enjoy the moment with your partner, don’t fear silence, and ask questions about them.
• Let your partner set the pace and suggest breaks along the way. It’s not about fitness – unless you are both into that.
• If things go well, suggest stopping for snacks or a meal on the way home. For some local Beulah favorites head to The Beulah Inn for beers and burgers, or go cozy up with a cup of coffee and pastry at The Stompin Grounds.

Want to go above and beyond?

Whether you have been dating 3 weeks or married 20 years, a snowshoe hike is a great way to leave your everyday lives at home. Being outside and getting active can provide freshness, and excitement in your relationship, and, with a little creativity and forethought, you can make this day one your love won’t soon forget. Here are a few more romantic ideas if you are really going for that wow factor:

• A Picnic – Surprise your partner with a picnic lunch or appetizers. Does a busy schedule make it hard for you to make your own? Let us do it for you. Click Here to order.
• Yoga– If you are looking for yet another way to connect with your partner, start your morning by opening your heart chakras side by side. This will help you feel even more in tune to one another for your snowshoe hike. Click HERE to learn more.
• Romantic Getaway – Don’t tell your partner where you are going, just what to pack. – A stay at our cozy, secluded Horseshoe Lodge will be sure to go down as a Valentine’s Day to remember. Click HERE to learn more.
• Memories with a View – On a hike, bring along something sentimental to both of you (love letters from when you first dated, old photos) and read them together at a nice viewpoint. The Fire Tower, Lookout Point and the pond are great places at the Mountain Park for a serene view. Click HERE to view our park map.