Winter brings a special kind of beauty to the woodlands. The air turns crisp, bare branches reach toward grey skies, and the ground softens into muddy, squelchy trails.
For those of us who find comfort and connection in nature, there is something uniquely satisfying about trudging through wet woodlands in winter, especially when dressed in an abaya. Far from being an obstacle, the abaya adds an extra layer of adventure, encouraging us to fully embrace the experience of walking through nature, mud and all.
In this post, I’ll share the joys of winter woodland walks, some tips on finding muddy woodlands near you, and a few ways to prepare for a wet and wonderful outing.
The joy of trudging through mud
There’s something undeniably freeing about setting out on a woodland path, knowing you’re going to come back a little bit muddy, a little wet, but completely invigorated. Wearing an abaya only enhances the experience. The material drapes around your legs as you walk, creating a gentle weight that makes each step feel grounded. As it brushes against the wet ground, there’s an unavoidable messiness to it — but that’s where the joy lies.
Walking in an abaya in the winter woods adds a sense of purpose and perseverance, as you navigate paths that might be muddy, slippery, or waterlogged. It’s a bit like a mini adventure; each step requires balance and awareness of the earth beneath you. It reminds you of the trials that come with the changing seasons, while bringing you a sense of connection to the earth.
With every squelch of mud underfoot and the sound of leaves crunching, this simple act becomes a meditative, joyful journey, a way to marvel at Allah’s creation in all its raw, wintery beauty.
Finding muddy woodlands near you
Luckily, the UK is rich in woodland areas and nature reserves, so finding a muddy path for a winter walk is just a matter of knowing where to look. Here are a few resources and tips to help you find that perfect muddy woodland:
1. National Trust sites
The National Trust cares for many woodland sites across the UK, often with well-maintained but wonderfully muddy trails in winter. Sites like Hatfield Forest in Essex, Clumber Park in Nottinghamshire, or any of the Trust’s coastal woodlands are great options. Check the National Trust’s website to find a woodland near you, and remember that winter often means fewer crowds, giving you a more peaceful experience.
2. Ordnance Survey maps and app
If you want to explore beyond managed sites, Ordnance Survey maps are an invaluable tool. Their detailed topographic maps show public footpaths, bridleways, and forested areas, giving you the freedom to explore local woods and discover quieter trails. The Ordnance Survey app also allows you to access maps on the go, so you can track your route as you walk.
3. Local nature reserves and forestry sites
Most local councils manage nature reserves and woodlands that offer beautiful walking trails. The Forestry Commission’s website provides a list of woodlands that are open to the public and suitable for winter walks. Woodland Trust sites, like Heartwood Forest in Hertfordshire or Hackfall Wood in North Yorkshire, offer rustic paths that are perfect for exploring with an abaya on a winter’s day.
4. Ask local walking groups
Walking groups, both online and offline, can be excellent resources for finding local woodlands with muddy trails. Look for groups on social media, or join walking clubs that have knowledge of the best winter walking spots in your area. Fellow walkers often have invaluable tips on which paths are accessible, where you’ll find the best views, and which trails might be delightfully muddy after rainfall.
Tips for a winter woodland walk
Embracing a winter walk in an abaya can be exhilarating, but it’s helpful to be prepared for the elements. Here are a few tips to help you enjoy the experience comfortably:
- Wear waterproof boots: A good pair of waterproof boots is essential for navigating muddy trails. Look for knee-high boots or wellies to keep your legs dry even when the mud is deep. This will allow you to walk with ease and confidence.
- Opt for a lightweight, darker-coloured abaya: Dark colours like black or navy are ideal for winter walks because they won’t show mud as visibly. A lightweight fabric will also keep your movement unencumbered, so you can focus on enjoying the walk.
- Layer up for warmth: Winter woodlands can be cold and damp, so layer underneath your abaya for warmth. A thermal top, lightweight jumper, and leggings or trousers work well and allow you to stay warm while still moving freely.
- Pack essentials in a waterproof bag: Consider taking a waterproof bag with essentials like water, a phone, and perhaps a small mat if you want to stop and rest. You can also pack a spare pair of socks or leg warmers to change into afterward if your legs get particularly muddy.
- Be mindful of footing: Winter woodland trails can be slippery. Walk mindfully, especially on steep or uneven paths. Using a walking stick can help with balance, and it’s useful for testing the depth of mud in certain areas.
- Take moments for reflection and gratitude: Walking through nature in winter is a beautiful time for quiet reflection and gratitude. The stillness of a winter woodland and the grounding sensation of mud underfoot can bring a sense of peace and wonder. Pausing for dhikr or a quiet prayer can deepen your connection to the natural world and help you reflect on the beauty of Allah’s creation.
The mental health benefits of winter walks in nature
Winter woodlands offer a unique environment for refreshing both the body and mind. Studies show that spending time outdoors, even in cold weather, can improve mood, reduce stress, and enhance mental clarity. The natural world has a way of easing worries, encouraging mindfulness, and grounding us in the present.
Walking in nature during the winter months, with the quiet of the trees and the sound of mud beneath your feet, can bring a sense of peace that is hard to find in busy daily life. For many of us, it’s a reminder of Allah’s design, how even in the seemingly barren season, there’s beauty, resilience, and renewal waiting to be seen and appreciated.
In a world that often feels rushed and chaotic, a slow, muddy winter walk in the woods is an invitation to pause, breathe, and reconnect with the essence of the natural world. So, put on your abaya, find a path, and step into the winter woods. The mud, the chill, and the quiet will remind you of the beauty in simple things, a precious reminder of Allah’s bounty and creativity all around us.