One of the many great things about living in Washington is the proximity to outdoor adventures, and now is the perfect time of year for snow enthusiasts. Although there may not be any snow on the ground here, that doesn't mean it can't be found.  On the contrary, snow abounds all around the area, and Northwest Adventure Center on Joint Base Lewis-McChord is your one-stop resource for all things outdoors.

Can you imagine snowmobiling the Cascade Mountains? How about night skiing or snow tubing? MWR offers plenty of opportunities to do just that through a variety of day trips offered through Northwest Adventure Center on JBLM or Adventures Unlimited at McChord Field. So gather your family and friends. You will not only get to see a ton of snow, but also the beautiful Washington countryside.

Prices vary from $25 for transportation only to $60 for an entire trip, including some equipment. Snowmobiling is the most expensive outing at $170, but the trip includes everything you need. There are even opportunities to take private lessons while there. Pay an additional $20 to have lunch and a souvenir cup included. You can even save money by taking advantage of special day trips like Half-Price Military Appreciation Day at Crystal Mountain.

From those with their own equipment to those with none at all, everyone can have a good time on these trips. Transportation, snowmobiles, helmets, boots, gloves and snowsuits are (mostly) included.

Equipment is also available to rent ala carte from both the Northwest Adventure Center and Adventures Unlimited. Cross country skis are $19 and include boots and poles. Snowshoes are $13, and downhill skis are $23. For all of these trips, make sure to visit Northwest Adventure Center prior to the trip to be fitted for your gear.

Here's a recap of some upcoming trips, but make sure to check the MWR calendar for complete details, costs and equipment rental information.

Jan. 15: Moonlight Snowshoe at Gold Creek

Jan. 17: Bavarian Ice Fest and snow tubing

Jan. 22: Stevens Pass Military Appreciation Day

Jan. 23: White Pass Mountain Day

Jan. 24: Snowshoe Paradise

Jan. 29: Night Ski & Snowboard at the Summit

Jan. 30: Bella Donna Snowshoe at Gold Creek Pond

Jan. 31: Snowmobile the Cascades

Casey Overturf at Mt. Rainier National Park confirmed that the snow is currently three feet deep, and it is expected to stay that way for the next couple of months.

Snow trips continue into the first week of February.

Northwest Adventure Center, 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. daily, Bldg. 8050, NCO Beach Rd., JBLM Lewis North, 253.967.8282/7744, http://jblmmwr.com/nw_adv_ctr.html