Enjoy the Snow in Chatham County
One of the great things about North Carolina are the relatively mild winters. Most years, we enjoy fall weather all the way through December 31, and this year was no exception! However, we do get a little taste of winter in January and February, and with a vortex that can’t seem to stay in the polar regions, it’s starting to get cold. Very cold. This time of year often brings snow, but don’t let that keep you inside! There are plenty of things to do in Chatham County to not only tolerate — but enjoy! — the snow.
Get Your Snow Removed FOR YOU:
Before heading out on the road to enjoy the snow, take advantage of one of the local businesses that can remove your snow for you! Don’t spend all day shoveling, leaving you too exhausted to enjoy your time out and about.
Walking Through Downtown Pittsboro:
I blogged about how to spend a weekend in Pittsboro last year, but it’s worth mentioning again, as Pittsboro has tons to do! Peruse pretty pottery at Cooper May’s Pottery, eat a giant sandwich at the City Tap, and ogle the art in Joyful Jewel. Take a short trip from downtown to the Carolina Tiger Rescue and watch the fascinating cats! Warm up at the end of your day with a hot meal and beverage from one of the shops or restaurants in Fearrington Village. You’ll have so much fun, you won’t ever notice the cold.
Tour and Taste Your Way Through the County:
After you’ve explored Pittsboro, continue your trip through Chatham County by attending tastings in Siler City or Fearrington. There are always events going on, including:
- Carolina Brewery and Grill: Get a special behind-the-scenes look when you attend the free brewery tours and tastings weekly, on Saturdays. Reserve your tour in the Hopshop or by calling (919) 545-2330. Brewery tours are available every Saturday at 2 pm.
- Fearrington Village: McIntyre’s Books in Fearrington, NC, is always hosting some kind of awesome event including book signings, book clubs and discussions. Find a complete schedule here.
- unWINEd: While the winery is “closed for hibernation” through January 23, they will re-open Jan 24, with a “Soupy Saturday” event. Tours are available on Saturdays in February.
Hike at Jordan Lake (or Any Park Around):
Chatham County has many local parks — perfect for sledding with the kids or taking a stroll with your significant other. Nature seems so much more peaceful when it’s buried under a fresh snowfall. It’s fun to listen to the “crunch crunch” of your feet as you step through snow. Need some inspiration to head out the door? The Chatham County Parks blog has a great photo gallery of local parks covered in snow — view it here. It’s so pretty, it could draw even the most warm-natured person outside.
Of course, NC State Park Jordan Lake is also an option for hiking, with several miles of trails, most of which are easy walking and suitable for all trekkers of all ages. For a complete overview, head to their website. Also, be sure to check to see if the park is open. Heavy snowfall and hiking don’t make a great combination.
Take a Day Trip to the Mountains…
Like the Pittsboro Parks blog points out, we are only three hours away from the mountains and some great skiing! If you’re looking for a change in scenery and the roads are safe to drive, make a day or weekend trip out of the snowfall. I’ve blogged about the skiing options in NC before, and you can check it out here.
…Or the Beach:
Tired of the cold? Get out of it altogether and head to one of North Carolina’s beautiful beaches. One of the best things about Chatham County is that the mountains and the beach are both about three hours away. Need help planning? Check out the Cary Citizen’s tips on how to get there and what to do. Even though the article is about a summer trip, there’s no reason you can’t enjoy a day trip in winter!
How Do You Like To Enjoy the Snow?
Photo Credit: Pittsboro Parks