United States Illinois Moline

Sylvan Island

An urban park and wildlife haven with trails for hiking and biking, known for its industrial history and outdoor recreational opportunities.

Tips from the community

Great for hiking in the winter

visitquadcities 1 year ago

Sylvan Island Guides

  • Winter Hiking and Snowshoeing in the Quad Cities

    visitquadcities (Visit Quad Cities )
    ou see a fresh expanse of newly fallen snow. What do you want to do? Make footprints across it, write your name, make a snow angel, build a snowman, etc. Did snowshoeing come to mind? Or maybe going for a hike? If not, maybe it should! Kelly Daugherty is an avid outdoors person, even in the winter. “It definitely helps eliminate some of those winter blues,” Kelly says. “It's a mental benefit for everyone, even the dog! My big dog, a Great Pyrenees named Adekes, LOVES snow. He would stay out there for hours if we would let him.” Winter hiking or snowshoeing offers a whole new view of the woods. You can see through the woods to what may be on the other side of that tree or what may be around the corner. A lot of times in the summer months when everything is all green and lush, you miss seeing things like animal tracks or the way the ice forms on certain objects. A snow-filled scene is like no other—the way it settles on the trees is always different and always beautiful. If you’re ready to go snowshoeing, any kind of snow will work…but a brand-new snowfall is the best. There’s nothing better than a fresh snowfall when it has gotten just cold enough to form a nice, crunchy layer on the top. Watch out for icy areas or icy weather conditions because you’ll be too busy watching your step to enjoy nature’s beauty.