When the weather turns colder and the days become shorter, it's easy to get stuck inside more often than we would prefer. However, we are incredibly lucky to have a large variety of great outdoor spaces right in our backyard in Southeastern Wisconsin, all of which are just as enjoyable in the winter months as they are during those beautiful summer months! We've compiled a list of seven of our employees' favorite spots around the Milwaukee area to help get over those winter blues. Grab your snowshoes, cross-country skis, and don't forget your four-legged furry friend and enjoy some fresh air!

1. Lapham Peak Unit of Kettle Moraine State Forest: Formed from glacier coverage over 10,000 years ago, the Lapham Peak Unit of Kettle Moraine State Forest near Delafield features excellent hiking and backpacking trails, and 17 miles of cross country ski trails - 2.5 miles of which are lighted for night skiing. In addition, visitors can view panoramic views from the 45-foot observation tower atop the highest point in Waukesha County, 1,233 feet above sea level. Pets are welcome to explore if kept on leashes 8 feet in length or less, and vehicle admission stickers are required. For more information, visit: http://dnr.wi.gov/topic/parks/name/lapham/
2. Pike Lake Unit of Kettle Moraine State Forest: A short drive from Milwaukee, the Pike Lake Unit of Kettle Moraine can be found between Hartford and Slinger. Bring your favorite 4-legged furry friend and embark on an adventure choosing from nine different hiking trails providing various topography and scenery, including an astronomy trail and the Ice Age National Scenic Trail. If you are an avid cross-country skier, this park offers 2.5 miles of groomed trails for both traditional and skate skiing. If planning a visit, please not that a vehicle admission sticker is required and can be purchased at the park entrance. For more information on this state forest, visit: http://dnr.wi.gov/topic/parks/name/pikelake/
3. Havenwoods State Forest: With 237 acres of grasslands, wetlands and woods, and over six miles of trails plus four ponds, plenty of scenery and wildlife abound in Wisconsin's only urban state forest! Toss on your snowshoes and begin exploring, or visit the Nature Center to participate in drop-in activities, view seasonal exhibits, and say hello to the live reptiles and amphibians. While the forest is open year-round from 6:00 AM to 8:00 PM, the Nature Center hours vary by season. Visit Havenwoods State Forest online for current programs and hours: http://dnr.wi.gov/topic/parks/name/havenwoods/
4. Seven Bridges Trail - Grant Park: For those not wanting to travel too far from town, a short drive to Grant Park in South Milwaukee will allow you to enjoy the Seven Bridges Trail. Hikers will explore a variety of scenery, including unpaved and lannon stone paths, stone staircases, numerous bridges, enormous trees, secluded areas, and the shore of Lake Michigan. At approximately 2 mies in total length, it is a great option for any season, including a quick winter escape. For more information and trail maps, visit: http://county.milwaukee.gov/SevenBridgesHikingTr8221.htm
5. Lion's Den Gorge Nature Preserve: Located in Grafton, Lion's Den Gorge Nature Preserve is a 73-acre park ideal for hiking, bird watching, fishing and picnicking. This area features undeveloped bluff land along the shoreline of Lake Michigan, with breathtaking views from atop the 90 to 100 foot bluffs. Visitors to the preserve can explore the trails that run along the bluffs and wetland, or trek down the gorge via a wooden staircase to stroll the shoreline of Lake Michigan below. The adjacent 44-acre wetland enhances populations of migratory birds, and an overlook deck allows for better viewing of the plethora of wildlife. For more information and directions, visit: http://www.co.ozaukee.wi.us/662/Lions-Den-Gorge-Nature-Preserve
6. Whitnall Park: Right in Sherper's of Hales Corners back yard is Whitnall Park. With a wide range of activities and attractions, from Boerner Botanical Gardens, Whitnall Golf Course, to the Wehr Nature Center, there is something for anyone's interests. In the colder snowy months, visitors can rent skis and snowshoes to explore over 5 miles of trails on 200 acres of land. Trail loops range from half a mile in length to just under 2 miles, including a loop around Mallard Lake - a 20 acre man-made lake. For more information on winter rentals, visit: http://county.milwaukee.gov/WhitnallWinterConces19642.htm
   Photo courtesy of Kevin Fuchs Photography
7. Nashotah Park: Tucked between Okauchee and Pine Lakes in the heart of "Lake Country" is Nashotah Park. This Waukesha County park offers a variety of trails varying in length and difficulty from 1 to 3.5 miles, including a winter hiking, dog walking, and snowshoeing seasonal trail. Bring the family after a fresh powdering of snow to enjoy the sledding hills! Visitors to the park can enjoy the wetlands surrounding Grass Lake and Forest Lake, trails through the woodlands and over rolling hills, and even a dog exercise area for your four-legged friends. With over 440 acres of park land, plenty of wildlife abounds no matter the season. A $4 per car entrance fee can be paid upon entering the park. For more information on Nashotah Park, visit: https://www.waukeshacounty.gov/nashotahpark/