It can be difficult to get outside in the winter. Shorter days mean less daylight and fewer hours to spend outdoors. Colder temperatures require more layers, and it can be harder to stay outside for extended periods of time. While winter is a great season to spend indoors with friends and family, and to cozy up in bed or by the fire, it’s still important to make an effort to get outside, soak up some sunlight, and stay active during the colder months. Even going outside for ten to thirty minutes during the day can help to regulate our circadian rhythm, our body’s natural clock, which in turn can improve sleep quality, and increase our mood.
Here are five fun activities to help you get outside this winter:
Downhill skiing or snowboarding
If you love adventure sports and adrenaline, this may be the activity for you. Skiing and snowboarding are exciting ways to get outside in the winter and fully embrace the season. Never been skiing or snowboarding? Consider taking a lesson. Ski mountains often offer lessons for all ages and ability levels. Kids can join group lessons, while adults may prefer a private or small-group class to build confidence and skills.
Cross-country skiing
Cross-country skiing can be a great way to get outside when it’s cold out, or if you don’t live near the mountains. It’s an excellent full-body workout and a great way to get your heart pumping while still enjoying a peaceful winter landscape. You can glide through forests, fields, or groomed trail systems, taking in scenery you might miss during other seasons. Many cross-country ski areas also offer snowshoe rentals if you would rather explore by foot. Both activities are relatively affordable, easy to learn, and perfect for people who want a rewarding winter adventure.
Having a bonfire
Bonfires aren’t just for summer months! If you have a large enough outdoor space, gather sticks and firewood (make sure you read about local wood gathering regulations) to build a fire, or consider using a firepit. Bring hot cocoa, tea, or cider to warm up, and roast marshmallows or hot dogs over the flames. Spending time around a winter fire is a great way to enjoy the outdoors without needing intense physical activity. Wrap up in blankets and enjoy conversations, games, snacks, or storytelling with friends and family.
Ice Skating
Skating is another fun way to get active outside in the winter. You could head to a local outdoor rink or, if conditions are safe, a local pond or lake. If you’re already a confident skater, try learning basic figure skating moves, practicing speed skating, or starting up a casual game of hockey. Some towns even offer recreational outdoor hockey leagues, making skating a great activity for the whole family!
Going on a nature walk/hike
You can do this wintertime activity right from your own backyard. Bundle up, head outside, and go for a walk or hike on a local trail. Appreciate the stillness of the season; the crunch of your boots on the trail, and the way sound travels through the cold. Try identifying local plants and animals. It can be challenging (and fun!) to recognize tree species without their leaves, using buds, bark, and branching patterns instead. You might also spot animal tracks in the snow that tell stories about what’s been moving through the area.
There are so many fun ways to get outside, these are just a few! We hope everyone enjoys the winter months – we look forward to seeing you in the summer.
