10 Ways to Enjoy the Outdoors This Winter

It's common to think of outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and playing sports as only summertime activities. But unless you find yourself in the middle of a hurricane, tornado, or blizzard, there's really no bad time to be outside.

This article will give you a few great ideas about the things you and your family can do to make the most of this year's winter season.

Benefits of Outdoor Activities During Winter

Growing up, we heard from grownups that you shouldn't be outside during winter for too long because you'll get sick or catch a cold. Science shows us this idea couldn't be further from the truth. Being outside in colder weather has all the health benefits of being outside in warmer weather.

In fact, while we don't recommend you do this here in the U.S., many Nordic countries, such as Iceland, Norway, and Finland, even leave babies to sleep outdoors in the middle of winter. As long as the babies are warm, covered, and dry, they aren't in danger, and it's actually been found to be beneficial.

As for toddlers and adults, here are some health benefits of spending time outdoors during the winter season.

●     Increases your Vitamin D intake, which is essential for healthy bones and teeth

●     Reduces stress and promotes internal and external healing

●     Boosts your immune system

●     Improves your mental health by giving you a sense of well-being

●     Increases your energy levels and can provide a mental boost

●     Can improve your sleep patterns

●     Boosts your metabolism and burns more calories than warm weather

In addition to the mental and physical health benefits of breathing in the crisp, fresh air of winter, outdoor winter activities can strengthen your family bonds and bring you closer together.

Enjoy Winter Outdoor Activities With the Whole Family

Sledding and Tubing

Some of my favorite memories growing up are of flying recklessly down a snow-covered hill on a sled. As a kid, there's nothing like that feeling of freedom and abandonment you get while sledding or tubing. It's something that I look back on very fondly, and I can't wait to do it with my own kids.

If you live in an area that gets snow, and you don't have a large hill in your backyard, there's likely a nearby park with hills that you can use.

Ice Skating or Snowshoeing

While neither of these following activities would be my first choice, they're wildly popular in many northern areas:

Iceskating: Although learning how to ice skate can take a little time, it's an excellent opportunity to practice your coaching skills when you go with your kids and teach them how to skate.

Snowshoeing, on the other hand, doesn't take a ton of practice to master. It does, however, take a lot of energy, which makes it a great way to get outdoor winter exercise.

Hiking Isn't a Seasonal Activity

Another common misconception is that hiking is strictly a summer activity. This couldn't be further from the truth. Going for a winter hike is one of the best ways to shake off the winter blues, as long as you're not doing it in dangerous conditions. Wear clothing layers and you can have just as much fun winter hiking as you do in summer and then some.

I discovered this firsthand while living in northern Indiana for several winters. We had a local park with fantastic nature and hiking trails, and we got over there as often as we could. Anytime I was feeling down or struggling with Seasonal Affective Disorder, I would bundle up, grab the dog, and go for a winter hike.

Consider Cross Country Skiing

If you're an avid runner and it's simply too snowy in your area to get a good jog in, consider taking up cross-country skiing. Cross-country skiing is a full-body workout, and you can burn up to 1,000 calories in a single hour! While it takes some practice and getting used to it, this is an excellent option if you want to maintain your fitness level while avoiding feeling cooped up during the winter.

Ice Fishing or Hunting

In addition to being excellent hobbies and putting food on the table, ice fishing and hunting teach you valuable life and survival lessons. Learning how to fillet a fish or gut a deer is something that everyone should know how to do.

Skiing and Snowboarding

Skiing, snowboarding, and other more extreme winter sports are wildly popular, especially in mountainous areas like Colorado, Vermont, and Michigan. Whether you prefer snowboarding or skiing, they're excellent ways to get outside during winter. The key to enjoying these activities is to have the proper gear and equipment and to take a few lessons before hitting the slopes.

How to Stay Safe Outdoors This Winter

It's essential to be smart and sensible when you go outside in the winter. Here are a few tips and tricks for how to stay warm and safe this winter:

●     Wear a thin base layer to protect your core, followed by multiple outer layers.

●     Invest in the right gear and winter accessories for the outdoor activity you are doing.

●     Don't go outside in extreme weather unless you're dressed and prepared.

●     Waterproof shoes or boots are a necessity.

●     Consider investing in a 4-wheel drive or AWD vehicle to stay safe on the snowy or icy roads.

In general, as long as you wear the right clothing, stay warm, and use common sense, time spent outdoors this winter will be safe and enjoyable for you and your family. In addition to the activities listed above, simpler activities like birdwatching, building a snowman, or creating snow angels with your kids will make memories that last a lifetime.

What are your favorite outdoor winter activities with your family? What's one outdoor activity you especially enjoy? Let us know in the comments section.