The glistening ice on the riverbanks of Franklin County is a breathtaking sight this time of year. But some of the people who live there opt for a different kind of breathtaking experience by jumping into the icy waters on New Year's Day.

They call themselves the "West County Waders". They come to the river every year because of the frigid cold water, but no one expected to have to pick through about three inches of ice, as they did on Thursday. In spite of that, the group of about 20 plungers said there is no better way to celebrate the new year.

"It's just a renewal. It's a good way to start the year fresh," said Judith Roberts of Colrain.

Michael McCusker is one of the organizers of the annual plunge. He took in the full experience of running from Shelburne Falls to the Deerfield River, about two miles away. The Run and Plunge is now in its fourth year. For the past two, it has been held in honor of friend and fellow plunger Jim Salem who died of a heart attack in 2007. Every year on January 1, they come to the river's edge. And, while it may seem crazy to jump in, those who dared to enter the icy water said there really is nothing to it.

"You just come along and do it... I mean, it's warmer in the water than it is outside," said Dick Ginns of Ashfield.

That might be true, but it's still unbearable, even if you're a pro.

"It's addictive. I've been coming for four years and once you start coming, you have to keep doing it," Roberts said.

The morning low temperature for Charlemont Thursday was three degrees, with the wind chill well below zero. Most of the plungers stayed in the water for roughly 30 seconds, while others opted for a longer soak. But they said it doesn't matter how you do it, but why.

"It's so important to do things in life that test you - things that you normally wouldn't do. I think it's worthwhile to push yourself ahead," McCusker said.