With so many winter sports available to individuals and families, there’s ample reason to plan a great winter vacation this year. For those of you who shudder at the thought of spending more than a few minutes out in cold, snowy weather take heart. Apparel manufacturers have created outerwear that will keep you toasty and stylish in the coldest temperatures. So, quit with the excuses and start thinking about the kinds of winter sports activities you and the entire family can get out and enjoy.
Top of the Winter Sports List – Downhill Skiing
Granddaddy of them all, downhill skiing can’t be beat for the range of skill levels, awesome and challenging terrain, spectacular scenery, and the excitement of being out on the mountain. If you’re contemplating skiing for the first time – or the first time in a long time – or will be introducing young children to the sport, check out lessons. First, you’ll learn something entirely new, or you’ll be able to advance to the next level of ability. Second, you’ll feel great about the accomplishment. Rent everything you need right at the resort – or bring your own. Downhill skiing is exciting and fun.
Cross-Country Skiing
In between downhill skiing and other winter sports, some individuals and families make time to do a little cross-country skiing. It’s a great workout, but you can go at your own pace. Ski equipment and gear can be rented from ski resorts, so it isn’t necessary to buy or bring your own.
Gaining in Popularity – Snowshoeing
Thinking of Eskimos trekking across the frozen tundra? Actually, snowshoeing is becoming very popular all across North America. Besides being a terrific winter sports activity, some downhill skiers tote their skis while they snowshoe to otherwise inaccessible terrain. Snowshoeing is easy and inexpensive to do. Everyone can do it. It provides a great aerobic workout and is fun to do in a group. Make sure to drink lots of fluids, however, as all that fresh air and cardiovascular workout can cause you to get dehydrated.
Snowboarding
Very popular with children and young adults – and extreme sports enthusiasts – snowboarding is available at 98 percent of North American ski resorts. Strap your feet to a board and get cranking. Take lessons, improve your skills, and in no time you’ll be doing freestyle and freecurve in addition to freeride. Many ski resorts in North America have developed specialized terrain parks catering to this energetic winter sports activity. Get in on the fun and try snowboarding this year.
Snow Tubing
Think of a giant inflatable inner tube sliding down a steep vertical of snow – that’s snow tubing. You don’t need special equipment or lessons to enjoy this winter sports activity. Just plop in the tube with your friends (young or young at heart) and zip down the hill. Grab the lift up the hill and do it all over again.
Snowmobiling
Take a break from the slopes and backcountry and all the other strenuous winter sports with an exciting and exhilarating snowmobiling trip through epic snow and majestic views. Choose professional guides or opt to go it alone, if you know the area. If there’s snow in the country, whatever the state, there’s bound to be a network of snowmobiling trails – and convenient, easy-to-read trail maps – that will allow you to access some of nature’s finest and hidden masterpieces. Gather up a group and head out for a half day or full day of snowmobiling’s best.
Ice Skating
Most winter resorts have ice skating rinks (indoor and outdoor) to provide winter sports activity for non-ski days or just having a little fun. Children, teens, adults of all ages get out on the ice and cut a few spins. It’s a great way to spend time with the family that doesn’t cost a bundle.
Sleigh Rides
Over the river and through the woods – let a horse-drawn sleigh ride take you and your select friends or family (or strangers, for that matter, but who cares when you’re all having fun?) out to relax and enjoy. You’ll glide smoothly and effortlessly across the snow, sitting on comfortable padded bench seats and covered with cozy blankets. There are dinner sleigh rides, scenic sleigh rides and private group sleigh rides.
Snow Cat Tours
Sometimes you just want someone else to do all the work. To see the best of the pristine wilderness, why not head out on a snow cat tour. There are sightseeing cat tours, snow skiing cat tours, even dinner cat tours. Not a bad way to spend a few hours.
Heli-Skiing and Heli-Snowboarding
The only way to reach those inaccessible (by land) areas to ski or snowboard is by heli-skiing, available at many world-class ski resorts. Think of it as your own private limo service – and you don’t have to stand in any lift lines. Of course, this way to go doesn’t come cheap, but it’s an opportunity that you don’t get every day, so splurge at least once.
Dogsledding
Here’s another vision that harkens to the days of the gold miners in the Yukon – or whatever image comes to mind. Dogsledding, in today’s winter sports arena, refers to tours led by an experienced guide, a musher, and his team of Huskies. Each sled holds 2 adults and 1 child. During this winter sports experience of a lifetime, you’ll stop and enjoy a snack and hot drink. Weather and trail conditions permitting, you may even be able to drive the sled. All told, this is one winter sports experience not to be missed.
There are other winter sports activities that you can enjoy as well, depending on the resort or area where you’ll be staying. These include ice fishing, zipline ecotours, kids’ ski school, kids’ activity zones, indoor recreation centers for basketball, swimming, tennis and more.
There’s no time like the present. Get out your calendar and pencil in some time for one or more of these exciting winter sports.
