Ten of Our Favorite Outdoor Winter Activities

Brian Acton

The best outdoor winter activities for you may depend on the region and the climate. What works in Florida may not be possible in Michigan. But no matter where you are, you don’t have to spend all winter hibernating indoors. Get outside to stay healthy, boost your mood, and have a memorable winter.

Here are ten of our favorite outdoor winter activities.

1. Go for a Walk Around the Neighborhood

Winter is great time to go for a neighborhood walk. Whether your neighborhood is a snowy wonderland or things look the same as they did in the fall, going for a walk is a good way to get your body moving and your endorphins up. Take your dog, a friend or neighbor, or just go by yourself. The important thing is to get moving.

2. Go for a Nature Hike

Want to get a little more scenic than your neighborhood? Many areas of the US are surrounded by natural beauty, whether it’s a beach, the mountains, or in between. Hiking in the winter can offer some spectacular scenic views, especially when everything is covered in snow. Make sure to be safe: hike trails that are appropriate to your fitness level, take a hiking buddy or at least make sure someone knows where you’re going, and wear the right gear.

3. Start a Bonfire

Bonfires can help ensure you’re warm and comfortable, even outdoors in the winter. Bonfires are cozy and can be enjoyed with an adult beverage or a cup of hot cocoa.  Bonus points if you bring some supplies for making s’mores. Every age group can enjoy a roaring fire, and you can enjoy it socially distanced from your guests!

4. Winter Weather Sports and Activities

There is a wonderful variety of winter sports and activities available for all skill levels, including ice skating, skiing, snowboarding, tubing, and sledding. All you really need is some snow or ice. These activities can be laid back or tough workouts, depending on what you’re doing and how intensely you’re doing it.

Want to get outside without aggravating an old knee, ankle or other injury? Make sure to wear a support product, like a brace or wrap, that helps you move while providing support to help you avoid reinjuring yourself. 

5. Shovel Snow

Shoveling snow is a great workout, when done properly. It burns a lot of calories and ends with a clear driveway and sidewalks. When you’ve finished with your yard, you can help out a neighboring senior or a friend who can’t shovel themselves.

Just remember that shoveling snow can be tough on the heart and back. You’ll want to warm up, use proper techniques, hydrate, and take plenty of breaks. Check out our tips on how to shovel snow and avoid injuries here.

6. Camping

Yes, you can go camping in the winter! Winter camping has several advantages – there are much fewer people, you can easily get a prime campsite, and there are no bugs or humidity. Nature takes on a serene beauty when it’s covered in snow, and you can hang out around the fire to stay warm.

Of course, winter camping may require some extra planning. You may need to pack plenty of warm layers and sleeping supplies. Don’t go spontaneously with no plan - you’ll need to carefully plan to make sure you have everything you need.

Camping doesn’t have to be uncomfortable, either. Don’t sacrifice your comfort or neck and back support when you’re sleeping in your tent. Bring along the right pillow.

7. Photography

Winter offers opportunities for some great shots you can’t get at other times of year. The sparseness of the trees and clean lines of winter are very conducive to photography. As you go for a winter walk with your camera, look for small details like a contrast of red berries against snow, or a frozen brook.

8. Play in the Yard

Some days you just won’t want to venture far from home. Fortunately, there are many outdoor activities you can do in your yard, apartment courtyard, or park within walking distance with the family. You can make snowmen or snow angels, blow bubbles that freeze on the wand when it’s below freezing, have a scavenger hunt or snowball fight, or just sit back and let your kids wear themselves out.

9. See Your Local Landmarks

Have some time off around the holidays? Winter is a good time to view outdoor landmarks and attractions, when the crowds aren’t as bustling and there’s plenty of parking.

10. Winter Yardwork

You may not need to mow the grass or water the flowers, but there is plenty of yard maintenance you can still do in the winter. Make sure to trim any hazardous branches away from your home and clean up debris that wasn’t removed in the fall. You can clean out flower beds and window boxes and even start planting bare root trees and roses.

Make sure that any strenuous work - like shoveling snow or picking up yard debris - doesn’t contribute to a back injury. Check out our back support belts to ensure you don’t end spend the winter dealing with back pain.