Getting After It in Mud Season

Photo by Amon Barker 

We are well into May and spring is undoubtedly in the air. Flowers are in full bloom, the days are slowly getting warmer, and the snowmelt has rivers at high tide. However, while the changing season brings a lot of beauty, warmth and opportunity for fun, it also comes with a lot of water runoff, and that means mud. For many people, mud puts a damper on spring exploration, getting stuck on clothes and shoes, trapping cars in ditches, and creating a slippery, sticky environment that soils (no pun intended!) the vibrant spring colors. Luckily, the mud also brings a lot of cool opportunities for adventure, and we’re here to share them with you. Check out some tips below to make the most of your spring experience.

Photo by Karen Maes

1. Go Fishing for Trout

Springtime trout fishing can be challenging, especially because the trout are slower-moving and more difficult to find. But even though spring rivers are often blown out, it's not impossible to find clear water! With the sun shining more frequently than not, it’s a great excuse to spend your day off outdoors, so whether you’re a novice fisherman or an expert on the riverbanks, pull out your fishing rod and cast a line! 

Photo by Lance Koudele

2. Go Hunting for Antlers

An activity loved by many in the Wild West, antler hunting can be especially rewarding. Not only does it encourage long walks in the crisp spring weather, but it’s a great way to find appreciation for nature, despite the muddy roads. Plus, chances are you’ll come home with your very own prize. All kinds of animals shed their antlers in mid-winter, including deer, moose, and elk, and early spring is prime-time to find them. In Jackson Hole, DMOS’ birthplace, we have a huge appreciation for antler hunting. Check out our antler arches, situated on each corner of our Town Square!

Photo from Goosewing Ranch

3. Go Searching for Wildflowers

Whether you already have an avid appreciation for the flowers that bloom in the spring, or you’ve never really noticed the tulips pushing up through the thawing ground, it’s undeniable that colorful spring flowers add a much needed vibrancy to the world after months of grey skies and snow-covered grass. Take a hike or visit your local park and it’s more than likely that you’ll find blooming flowers. As an added bonus, dry the wildflowers you find to preserve their color for years to come. 

Photo by Joel Holland

4. Go Off-Roading

If you're already a fan of mud, or you're looking for a messy thrill, off-roading is the sport for you. However, though off-roading or mudding can be fun for anyone, dangerous things can hide under the mud, and safety is key! Always be sure to go with someone who is experienced and always carry your DMOS Shovel as a backup. If the thought of off-roading is too daunting but you’re still itching to get dirty, make yourself a mud bath or find a mud race near you.

Photo by Philippe Toupet

5. Go Hunting for Morels

Hunting for Morel Mushrooms is a great spring activity and an excellent way to get outdoors. Plus, Morels are delicious and add flavor to many different types of cuisines! As with most outdoor activities, getting your timing right is key. To find Morels, look for damp, moist areas and search until you find one. Then, search around that area for more. However, it is crucial to remember that some mushrooms are poisonous, so make sure you know what you’re looking for before you go.

Photo by tulsaworld.com

So, just because the snow is melting, the ground is slushy and your kids are tracking mud through the house, doesn’t mean you have to hate spring! There are countless activities to participate in outdoors and tons of ways to find appreciation for nature. How are you spending your mud season?