When the weather turns cold and snow begins to fall, winter sports enthusiasts, as well as the person seeking just a casual stroll in nature, can bundle up in warm clothes and head outdoors to the Hennepin Canal.

Winding through southern and western Bureau County as well as sections of Henry, Lee, Whiteside and Rock Island counties, the Hennepin Canal offers miles and miles of cross country skiing trails along the canal's walking path. Some people even choose to strike away from the beaten path and venture out onto the canal itself for their cross country skiing adventure.

For the snowmobile enthusiast, the Hennepin Canal boasts the longest snowmobile trail in the state, 91 miles on the tow path. Snowmobilers can also use the canal itself, but at their own risk. Anyone using the canal should take notice of the locks, bridges and culverts, where the ice is likely to be thinner than on the rest of the canal.