Embrace the Winter Wonderland
Winter offers a playground of activities beyond traditional skiing and snowboarding. Whether you're seeking adrenaline-pumping adventures or peaceful nature experiences, there's a winter activity for everyone. From snowshoeing through silent forests to gliding across frozen lakes, discover the magic of the season.
Winter offers endless outdoor adventures
Snowshoeing
Best Destinations
Rocky Mountain National Park, USA: Over 60 miles of trails wind through pristine wilderness, offering wildlife viewing and stunning mountain vistas.
Japanese Alps: Walk through snow-covered cedar forests and visit traditional villages inaccessible by other means during winter.
Snowshoeing is one of the most accessible winter activities. If you can walk, you can snowshoe. Modern snowshoes are lightweight and easy to use, making this an ideal activity for families and beginners.
Ice Skating
Iconic Rinks
Rockefeller Center, New York: The world's most famous ice rink offers skating beneath the iconic Christmas tree and surrounded by skyscrapers.
Red Square, Moscow: Glide across ice with St. Basil's Cathedral and the Kremlin as your backdrop in this historic setting.
Lake Louise, Canada: Skate on a frozen glacier-fed lake surrounded by snow-capped peaks at the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise.
Dog Sledding
Where to Experience
Alaska, USA: Learn to mush your own team of huskies through pristine wilderness. Many operators offer multi-day expeditions with overnight camping.
Lapland, Finland: Combine dog sledding with Northern Lights viewing and stays in glass igloos for a magical Arctic experience.
Quebec, Canada: Experience traditional Canadian dog sledding with opportunities to interact with the dogs and learn about mushing culture.
Ice Climbing
For adventure seekers, ice climbing offers the ultimate winter challenge. Frozen waterfalls and ice formations become vertical playgrounds for those with the skills and courage to ascend them.
Top Destinations
Ouray, Colorado: The "Switzerland of America" features a man-made ice park with over 200 named ice and mixed climbs.
Norway: Rjukan offers world-class ice climbing with frozen waterfalls of all grades, plus the unique experience of climbing under the winter sun reflected by mirrors.
Snowmobiling
Epic Trails
Yellowstone National Park, USA: Experience the park's geothermal features and wildlife without the summer crowds on guided snowmobile tours.
Swedish Lapland: Traverse vast Arctic wilderness, cross frozen lakes, and possibly spot the Northern Lights from your snowmobile.
Other Winter Activities
Endless ways to enjoy the snow
- Fat Biking: Ride specially designed bikes with oversized tires on snow-covered trails
- Ice Fishing: Experience the tradition of fishing through frozen lake ice
- Sleigh Rides: Romantic horse-drawn rides through snowy landscapes
- Snow Tubing: Fun for all ages on dedicated tubing hills
- Winter Hiking: Explore trails with microspikes or crampons for traction
- Hot Springs: Soak in natural hot springs surrounded by snow
- Northern Lights Viewing: Chase the aurora borealis in Arctic regions
Safety Tips
- Check Weather: Winter conditions change rapidly; check forecasts before heading out
- Dress in Layers: Moisture-wicking base, insulating mid-layer, waterproof outer shell
- Stay Hydrated: Cold air is dehydrating; drink water regularly
- Know Your Limits: Don't attempt activities beyond your skill level
- Travel in Groups: Winter activities are safer with companions
"In winter, the stars seem to have rekindled their fires, the moon achieves a fuller triumph, and the heavens wear a look of a more exalted simplicity." John Burroughs
What to Wear
- Base Layer: Merino wool or synthetic thermal underwear
- Mid Layer: Fleece or down jacket for insulation
- Outer Layer: Waterproof and windproof shell
- Head & Hands: Warm hat, neck gaiter, and insulated gloves
- Feet: Warm, waterproof boots with good traction
- Eyewear: Sunglasses or goggles to prevent snow blindness
