The sun may be out. The temperature may be sixty degrees. It’s New Year’s Day and the season is winter. Cold weather activities need not be put on the back burner because of geography. Los Angeles' parents can enjoy a winter day with their children as much as any of their northern counterparts.
Los Angeles is a few hours drive from Snow Summit, Bear Mountain, Snow Valley, and Mt. Baldy Ski Resorts. There is nothing like snow to perk the spirits and bring out the child in the most serious adult. An early day, a bagged lunch, extra clothes, and a camera will transform a single day into a mini vacation.
For families who want to stay closer to home Los Angeles offers several outdoor ice-skating rinks to enjoy a pastime that dates back to the 1300s, when skating across the ice was done over frozen lakes and ponds. Parents can join their children on the ice and recreate a Norman Rockwell moment.
ICE at Santa Monica, located at 1324 Fifth St., is open from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Pershing Square Downtown on Ice, located at 532 South Olive St., is open from noon to 10 p.m.
Woodland Hills Ice, located at the Westfield Promenade, 6100 Topanga Canyon Blvd., is open from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m.
For a peaceful day in the mountains, snow or not, Mt. Pinos, at 8820 feet, in Frazier Park offers trails, hiking, sledding, clean air, and photo opportunities. Mt. Pinos is the Frazier Park exit off the I-5 freeway.
Snow conditions for Mt. Pinos can be found at:
http://www.frazmtn.com/fmcoc/snowcond.htm
Spending time as a family is the perfect way to welcome New Year’s Day. Share and discuss realistic resolutions that children can keep. Giving children a goal to work towards that is attainable will empower them rather than discourage them.
Hug your children regardless of how old they are. New Year’s is a time to remember how special family is.
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