5 Reasons You Should Be Winter Walking (and Where to Go in Gaston County)
- Melissa McCauley
- 2 hours ago
- 3 min read
Cold temperatures and the occasional snowy day in North Carolina may slow us down, but winter is actually one of the best seasons to get outside and walk. January is the perfect time to reset, move your body, and reconnect with nature—without the heat, bugs, or crowds.
From peaceful trails to scenic river walks, Gaston County offers plenty of winter-friendly places to explore. Here’s why winter walking is worth it—and where to lace up your shoes.
1. Boost Your Mood and Vitamin D Naturally
Fresh winter air and sunshine do wonders for your mental health. A brisk walk helps clear your mind, lower stress, and boost serotonin—making it a powerful way to fight seasonal winter blues.
Vitamin D is especially important during the colder months, and it’s hard to get through diet alone. Research shows that just 5–30 minutes of safe sun exposure each week can help support healthy vitamin D levels.
Where to go:
Rankin Lake Park: Open views over the lake mean more sunshine and calming water views on this 1.5-mile paved walking trail.
Goat Island Greenway: Flat paths with scenic river views are great for steady movement on this 0.7-mile paved surface trail.
2. Burn More Calories in Cooler Temperatures
Winter walking can actually help you burn more calories. When it’s cold, your body works harder to stay warm—meaning you use more energy with every step.
Whether your New Year's goal is weight loss or simply staying active, bundling up and heading outside can give your walk an extra boost without increasing joint impact.
Where to go:
Tower Trail at Crowders Mountain: An energetic 1.8-mile hike to the top of Crowders Mountain from the Linwood Area, which ends at the radio towers.
Ridgeline Trail at Crowders Mountain: Rambling over rocky hills, diving into shady hollows, and cruising through dense hardwood forest, the Ridgeline Trail is one of the most interesting and diverse trails in the area. And, at 8.7 miles, it’s certainly the longest.
3. Strengthen Your Immune System
Winter is cold and flu season, but moderate aerobic exercise—like walking—can help boost your immune system. Studies show that 30–45 minutes of walking can increase immune response and reduce inflammation.
Cold exposure also constricts blood vessels, which may help reduce swelling and support recovery. Even light shivering has been shown to activate metabolism.
Where to go:
George Poston Park: Peaceful wooded trails encourage longer, steadier walks.
Styz Trails at Warlick YMCA: A quieter option for those looking to avoid crowds while staying active.
Mountain Island Educational State Forest: Four easy-to-enjoy walking trails, each offering its own style of scenery and learning opportunities.
4. Everything Is Better With Friends
Walking doesn’t have to be a solo activity. Winter walks are a great excuse to catch up with friends, bring the family, or even meet new people who share similar health goals.
With fewer people on the trails, winter creates a more relaxed, social environment—perfect for conversation and connection.
Where to go:
Downtown Strolls: Take an easy stroll and pair it with a trip to our downtowns for a sweet treat and shopping with your bestie.
Dog Friendly: Grab your fur friend and head to the most dog-friendly places for a walk, free run in our dog parks, and more.
5. Winter Is One of the Most Beautiful Seasons on the Trail
Winter landscapes offer a kind of beauty you won’t see any other time of year. Bare trees reveal long-range views, golden sunlight filters through branches, and frosty mornings create stunning textures and reflections.
You’ll hear your footsteps crunch, spot winter wildlife, and capture photo-worthy moments around every bend—all without summer humidity.
Best winter photo spots:
Winter Walking Tips for Gaston County
Dress in layers: Start cool—you’ll warm up quickly.
Wear proper shoes: Trails can be muddy or frosty in the mornings.
Check park hours: Some parks close earlier in winter.
Bring water: Hydration still matters in cold weather.
Start the New Year Moving in Gaston County
Winter is the season for quiet trails, fresh air, and simple movement. Whether you’re hiking Crowders Mountain, strolling a riverside path, or walking in a local park, Gaston County makes it easy to stay active all winter long.
So don’t wait for spring—grab a jacket, step outside, and start the year one walk at a time.
