Are you counting down the days until the first day of spring so you can go out and have fun in nature?
Why wait? There are plenty of ways to have fun in nature during the winter months while reaping the many health benefits nature offers. Whether you enjoy winter sports, short walks, scenic drives, playing outside, or watching the birds from the kitchen window, everyone can take time to have fun in nature.
It’s February and many people are currently experiencing cabin fever and the winter blues these cold days. Depending on where you live, it’s been a long winter, and it will be several weeks before spring arrives. One study suggest that spending at least 120 minutes a week in nature is associated with good health and well-being. So, let’s get out there and have some fun.
From braving the cold to staying warm inside, here are 20+ ways to have fun in nature during the winter:
Get out and enjoy some winter sports. This can include skiing, sledding, snowboarding, skijoring, snowshoeing, ice skating, and ice hockey. Spending time outside in the sun while being physically active is one of the best things you can do for your body.
Grab your friends and spend some time in nature by going hunting, ice fishing, snowmobiling, camping, or hiking. Snowmobiling is the fastest way to get you and your friends to the back country to enjoy some solitude in nature.
Enjoy nature in your community by attending local events and parks in your area. Many cities and towns have winter festivals to help people get out of the house and have fun in their community. You can also go on a scenic drive and take photographs of the winter scenery.
Have fun in your own backyard by making snow angels, building a snowman, throwing snowballs, building an igloo, investigating animal tracks, or sitting by the campfire. Get creative, make some hot chocolate or tea, and enjoy this time with your family.
Stay warm and enjoy nature from your window. You can watch the sunrise, the sunset, the birds fly, and squirrels gathering food. Enjoy this quiet time to think, reflect, and calm your mind by observing the trees and your natural environment. You can also take this time to plan your garden for spring and even start some of your seeds indoors.
If any of these ideas interest you, why not give it a try. You don’t need to buy all new equipment, just look online or visit your local pawn shop. That way you have a chance to try something new without spending a ton of money. Be sure to enjoy the present moment and take some time to rest this winter as well.
Winter Safety
When you venture outside or go for a drive during the winter, be sure to make safety your number one priority. According to the U.S. Forest Service, hypothermia is the number one killer of outdoor recreationists. “Outdoor Safety & Ethics: Winter Safety” is an article on the USDA website that explains the top hazards of winter recreation and how you can plan accordingly for your next adventure.
It's important to always check the weather and driving conditions in your area. Many areas have live road and plow cams that the Department of Transportation post online so people can check out the road conditions before venturing out. Make sure someone you know is aware of where you’re going and when you’re expected to return.
The vehicle you are driving should have good traction tires and routine, preventive maintenance done. We should always keep the usual car essentials like jumper cables, flares, spare tire, flashlight, first-aid kit, phone charger, blanket, food, and water in our vehicle. However, during the winter season, there are a few more essentials you should consider like chains, kitty litter, extra clothing, a heavy blanket, and extra food and water.
Keep your body safe while playing outside this winter by staying warm and dry. Always dress in layers and include hats, scarves, gloves, and water-resistant shoes in your wardrobe. Wool is a good choice to use to stay warm and dry. At the bottom of the above-mentioned article, the USDA posted a video at the end showing tips for dressing for success. Go out and have fun in nature in the winter, safely please.
Our Personal Experience
Brian and I currently live in the northern part of the United States where we experience winter about five months out of the year. There are several events in our area to encourage people to get out of the house, including ice plunges, ice hockey, and various races. The two of us have taken two road trips during the winter season. We’ve seen snow across the nation and understand the toll winter can take on our physical and mental well-being.
While it’s much easier to stay in our warm home, stay off the roads, and keep the snow outside instead of tracking it in, it’s not necessarily what our bodies need. We need to feel the sunshine, breathe the fresh air, and stay physically active all year long. Brian and I enjoy cuddling up together, watching nature documentaries, sipping a cup of tea, and researching different plants to work with this spring.
However, the two of us understand that life is about balance and if we don’t use it, we lose it. Going outside gives us the opportunity to be physically active while calming our minds. We have found that just walking to the mailbox, shoveling walkways, and keeping the snow off the roof is very beneficial to our bodies and minds this time of year.
The two of us enjoy having fun year-round in all types of natural environments. Our most recent adventure was a lovely drive to a lake and walking on the ice. We had a wonderful time and will do it again before this winter is over. Brian and I make sure we dress appropriately for the weather and have emergency essentials in the vehicle.
Have fun but be safe out there.