El Niño is hitting hard this winter, bringing very unseasonably warm weather and a lack of precipitation across much of Montana. This generally divides people into two camps: those who are not fond of winter who are loving every day of the mild temps, and those that are lamenting not being out on the slopes or nordic trails and praying for snow. Or perhaps it’s just that you’re not feeling like it could possibly be Christmas in a few days. It looks like late April instead.
No matter which group you relate to more, we can all agree that we can’t control the weather, and my philosophy as far as outdoor activity goes is that I’ll take what I’m given. Therefor, I’ve been out hitting the (mostly) dry trails around town and getting some unusual December hiking miles in. I am not alone. In the past few weeks I’ve seen a great number of hikers, runners, and bikers out and about, basking in the sun. Just today, I saw a few in shorts and t-shirts. I’m checking the date on my watch and thinking, “This is just so…weird.”
Hiking in December (or any month) is great for leg strength and the cardiovascular system. But I think I’ve felt an added benefit because my legs aren’t used to hiking this late in the year, so I’ve really been feeling it.
So get outside and take what you can get right now, whether on two legs or wheels. Winter weather will come eventually, and when it does you can benefit from the extra cardiovascular fitness you’re earning right now.
P.S. I wrote this article certainly as an advice/motivational piece, but I’m really just hoping that it serves as a Jinx, and an epic winter storm descends just as I hit the publish button.
Happy Holidays, and still dreaming of a White Christmas!
Neal
Montana Moves 
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