Cozy Winter Weekend in the Ozarks

For my 40th, my husband surprised me with a dreamy winter weekend. He found the perfect cozy cottage just outside of Ironton, Missouri, where snow-draped trails, peaceful mornings, and indulgent evening rituals came together for the ultimate winter reset.

There’s something magical about a snowy escape to the hills of the Ozarks, where winter’s stillness wraps around you like a blanket and life slows just enough to breathe. As someone born in Michigan but living in Missouri for over a decade, I had never seen the Ozarks draped in white powder. What a treat!

Snowy Beginnings: Arriving at the Cottage

Eight inches of fresh snow greeted us as we pulled up to our cottage Airbnb, just in time to catch the sun setting behind the hills. Inside, we found a charming, thoughtfully designed space with floor-to-ceiling windows that perfectly framed the winter wonderland outside.

To set the mood, I lit the Warm + Cozy Candle, from our Winter Warmup Crate, unpacked some weekend essentials like Drinking Chocolate from the Thinking of You Crate. and salted caramel cookies, and marveled at how the cottage felt like it was made just for us. The hand soap even matched our candle—a sweet little coincidence that made it feel like we were exactly where we needed to be. 

For dinner, we ventured to Checo’s Mexican Restaurant in Ironton. The margaritas were spot on, the tamales divine, and Zach’s pollo trios dish earned a perfect 10/10. Full and happy, we returned to the cottage for a quiet evening of games, Coop's hot chocolate, and dreaming up goals for the year ahead.

Morning Peace & Snowy Trails

The next morning, I couldn’t resist heading out early to wander the property. Stepping outside with a cup of coffee and bundled in my snow boots and coat, I was met with pink skies and crisp air. Birds fluttered by, and I spotted an eagle—always a thrill to watch!

After our slow morning, we layered up and packed a few essentials for our hike: Rogue Signature Hickory Beef Jerky, the Lil Grippy Utility Tool from our Grounded Crate, and plenty of water. Our first stop: Turkey Creek Trail. The snow transformed the landscape into a winter wonderland, making every step feel magical.

Later, we explored Pickle Springs Trail, where the unique rock formations and frozen streams created an otherworldly vibe. This area is renowned for its rich, forested gorge and its connection to the Pleistocene era. It provides a haven for rare and distinctive plant species, including a tropical moss and flora more commonly associated with the Appalachian region, making it a Natural National Landmark!

Cozy Dinners and More Adventures

For a late lunch, we stumbled upon a local gem: Old Number 102 in Farmington. The food was so incredible we returned the next day! Highlights included their pizza specials, a spicy hot chicken sandwich, and arancini that melted in our mouths. The cozy ambiance and warm conversation with the staff made it a dining experience to remember.

On Sunday, we ventured to the Trail Through Time and the Castor River Shut-Ins, both offering stunning views and peaceful moments. These trails quickly became some of our favorites, with their blend of natural beauty and opportunities to pause and reflect.

 

Evenings of Reflection and Warmth

Our evenings at the cottage were all about slowing down. We sipped drinking chocolate, a rich and velvety indulgence that paired perfectly with the ease of the evening. Zach played guitar while I journaled, setting intentions for the year ahead and dreaming up ideas for Care Cottage Crates. What a gift it was.

Each night, we felt gratitude for the chance to reset and reconnect. It was a reminder that life’s simplest moments—snowy hikes, cozy meals, quiet reflections—can provide big impact.

Bring the Magic of Winter Home

Whether you’re escaping to the woods or creating a retreat at home, there’s so much joy to be found in the small things during this time of year: a warm drink, a candlelit evening, or a walk through the snow.

If you’re looking to create your own moments of peace and care, explore our Care Cottage Crates. From the indulgent essentials in our Winter Warm Up Crate to the thoughtful surprises in our Grounded Crate, our collections are designed to bring the magic of cozy escapes into your everyday life.

With Warmth,
Sara