Winter is here! As the temperature dips below zero, we tend to spend most of our time indoors. But don’t let the winter cold stop you from enjoying the outdoors. 

Go out, enjoy the snow and get moving! 

However, to get the most fun out of the winter months, it is essential to wear proper attire to keep you warm and safe. If you need some pointers on keeping warm in the cold, chilly season, we have some recommended gear for the cold season in this blog. 

Now that you’ve read up on some winter essentials to keep you safe, here are some fun outdoor winter activities that you can enjoy with friends and family:

1. Go ice skating 

It is time to test your balance and flexibility. Learning this winter sport is not only fun but offers some fitness benefits. The long list of benefits that you can get from skating includes getting a happiness boost, improving balance, better motor coordination, flexibility, and having good posture.

2. Learn snowboarding

Snowboarding can be a challenging activity. However, if you love adventure, it’s a great way to learn a new sport while taking advantage of what winter has to offer. Perfect for the adrenaline junkie at heart, get your heart pumping as you carve the slopes with this high-octane sport! 

What’s more, at the end of the day, mellow out with a cup of hot cocoa on hand as you enjoy the view of the mountains. Snowboarding is even better enjoyed with friends and family! So, why not bring them along for the ride?

3. Try skiing 

Want to learn a new winter sport? This upcoming winter season is your chance to try out something new. Grab your friends and have some fun as you ski some snow-covered slopes! But always remember, “Safety First!” Ski only in the safe zone and never go alone.

If you’re new to skiing and snowboarding,know the difference between the two. And, more importantly, learn how to keep warm as you hit the slopes in the winter.

4. Snowshoeing

If you have never done this winter activity before, try it with your partner, friends, or family.  A fun social activity for everyone, snowshoeing is inexpensive and beginner-friendly. It can also be a great low-impact winter exercise to stay in shape for winter.

5. Sledding

Go sledding! We’re sure the kids love it, too! It is a fun winter activity and a great winter bonding with your family. Make sure to wear the right safety gear and do it in a safe spot.

6. Build a snowman

It’s time to go out and build a snowman. When winter brings heavy snow to your place, go out and have some quality time with your kids or family! Time to show off your creativity by building your very own snowman.

7. Make a snow angel

If you have kids (or not!), fall in the snow and make an angel! It feels so freeing and comfy just to lay down. You (and your kids if you do it with them) will have loads of fun making snow angels. There’s nothing like lying down on snow that feels like a bed of clouds. Make it that much more special by doing it with friends and family.

8. Go for a run

If running is your go-to way to stay in shape, then winter shouldn’t stop you from your routine - go for it! Running can be feasible even in winter with the right winter running gear and preparation. You can read up on our cold weather running gear must-haves to make sure that you stay comfortable and warm even as you run through ice-covered ground.

9. Snowball fight

Have fun in the snow with your family or friends! The occasional snowball fight brings you back to some of the most fun times during your childhood years. A great family bonding activity, feel like a kid again as you play with the whole family!

10. Winter picnic

Try a winter picnic for a change! It is a great bonding activity with your partner, friends, and family. Spending quality time together and enjoying the cold weather is a great way to make the best of the winter season.

11. Winter camping 

If you’ve never tried winter camping, then this is YOUR SIGN to go on one! While it sounds not too comfortable, hear us out. Aside from having to experience the beauty of nature in the winter season, winter camping is an excellent way to spend time with family and friends. It’s a plus if the gang also loves to spend time in nature. Treat it as a way to unplug and reconnect with mother nature and your loved ones. 

If you’re sold, let us help you get started. Of, course, it goes without saying that safety should always come first!  

12. Ice fishing

With good conversations and a good catch, ice fishing is another great way to spend time with loved ones during the wintertime. But, always remember to keep safe! Bundle up and have the right gear with you. If it’s going to be your first time, read up on what to wear and some safety tips for ice fishing in this article.

13. Winter Hiking

Aside from being a good way to see the beauty of nature in the winter, winter hikes also bring a slew of benefits. Aside from promoting cardiovascular health, hiking in the winter burns more calories (compared to exercising in the warmer months) and helps you fight SAD (Seasonal Affective Disorder). What’s more, bring in more fun if you spend these hikes with family and friends!

14. Stargazing 

Did you know that stargazing isn’t just for those summer nights? Stargazing is best in the wintertime since it's the time when the sky is the clearest - making the stars and comets (if you’re lucky) shine so much brighter. This view is perfect to enjoy with loved ones as you sip through hot cocoa under the inky star-filled winter sky. But, always remember to bundle up!

15. Go for a cross-country ski

Cross-country skiing is a great way to enjoy the winter scenery while getting some exercise. Some ski trails are located in scenic spots making it especially fun when everything is covered in snow.

16. Ride a snowmobile

Snowmobiling is a fun activity that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. It is a great way to get some fresh air and explore the countryside. If you are new to snowmobiling, don't worry! There are plenty of trails that are perfect for beginners. Another great way to socialize, riding with friends and family is a fun way to spend the day. Plus, you can make some great memories together while enjoying the beautiful winter scenery.

17. Host a bonfire for friends

Throwing a bonfire can be fun and exciting if done properly. What fun it is to gather around a warm fire on a cold winter night! Roasting marshmallows, telling stories, and singing songs are all part of what makes bonfires so much more enjoyable!

18. Go for a nature walk and snap some photos

Take a walk in the park. Bundle up and take a peaceful stroll through your local winter wonderland to take in the beauty of winter scenery. Plus, make sure to always remember the view by snapping a couple of nature photos that you can keep with you forever.

19. Play pond hockey

A great game for all ages, pond hockey can be enjoyed by people of any skill level. It's easy to learn how to play, and it's a lot of fun to compete against friends and family. Plus, it's a great way to get some exercise while enjoying the fresh air and beautiful scenery. If you're looking for something fun to do this winter, consider giving pond hockey a try! You won't regret it.

20. Make a snow fort

There is something so rewarding about building an actual structure with your own two hands - building your snow fort is no different! Just grab some large blankets or tarps (or sheets if you don't mind getting them wet) and start shoveling!

How do you stay warm in the winter?

As fun as it may be to spend countless hours in an icy paradise, it’s essential that you stay warm, safe, and comfortable. This is why investing in the right gear made from high-quality materials is a must - and GearTOP has you covered! 

Pick and choose among premium outdoor gear that will keep you cozy without having to bruise your wallet! From versatile balaclavas as well as cozy glove liners that you can wear even for the warmer seasons. 

Get affordable yet high-quality outdoor gear now (for any season), by visiting the GearTOP Amazon shop to get the best deals!

Conclusion 

Prepare homemade cookies, enjoy some hot coffee, light a bonfire, and gear up accordingly. You can start your mini winter picnic even in your own backyard. For the best experience, stay safe, stay warm, and have fun!