There’s something special about feeling your heart pounding against your chest and your palms start to sweat, while attempting to control an immeasurable level of excitement surging through your body. All of those feelings can be traced back to one word – adventure. We love adventure so much because it reminds us that we’re alive. A pursuit that grand shouldn’t halt just because of a little snow. Here are three outdoor activities to try this winter.
Snowshoeing
Snowshoeing is a fun, low-impact recreational activity that the whole family can enjoy. Unlike some of the more difficult winter sports, snowshoeing is for all ages and ability levels. It also requires relatively inexpensive gear. All you’ll need is snowshoes, poles and warm/snow-proof clothes. The act itself is nothing more than walking (or running) in the snow. If you choose to do it on an incline or down a hill, snowshoeing becomes hiking in snow. But how easy or difficult the sport is completely depends on your discretion. As your family practices more and learns the ins and outs of how to maneuver in their gear, you can start to choose more advanced terrain, or even learn fun tricks.
Fat Biking
Over the past couple of years, fat bikes (also known as fat tire bikes or fatties) have grown in popularity. Because of their oversized tires, they are extremely versatile; accommodating any terrain. Although they can be ridden year around, these unique mountain bikes are especially fun to ride in the snow, and have become a wonderful winter weather activities. But because fat bikes tend to cost much more than an average bicycle, this winter sport isn’t for everyone. However, if you’re willing to invest in a bike that you’ll be able to use even after the snow has melted, don’t hesitate to go for it. (Some establishments even have fat bikes available to rent if you haven’t purchased one of your own.) There are Blizzard Bike Races to enter, snow trails where bikes are permitted, and fat-bike-friendly ski hills, all waiting to awaken the adrenaline-seeker in you.
Snow Tubing
Do you remember as a kid going to the waterpark, grabbing an inner tube and relaxing in the lazy river? Well, snow tubing in sort of like that, except, downhill, in the snow, at much faster speeds! Snow tubing is comparable to sledding, just with a different method of transportation. This activity is simple, inexpensive and fun. The only thing you’ll need is a sturdy inflatable inner tube and a healthy dose of gravity. Your location of choice will have the biggest impact on your outcome. You want to choose somewhere clear of obstructions, with a smooth hill, and a safe place to stop at the bottom. Snow tubing is suitable for all ages and doesn’t require any specific skills, so it’s perfect for everyone.
“Life was meant for good friends and great adventures.”
– Unknown
Don’t let the cold keep you cooped up inside. There are many winter sports and activities to explore, including the three mentioned above. As always, remember to keep safety first by wearing a helmet and staying aware of your surroundings at all times. If you decide to partake in mountain sport, make sure to brush up on avalanche survival skills before heading out to your location. Chasing adventure is always more fun when you’re safe!
