Although I love both downhill and cross country skiing, I find myself needing other outdoor adventures. Even though some might be silly or impractical, these 5 alternatives to skiing will help you think creatively about how to get in a few outside adventures this winter.
1) Ice Skate outside on "wild ice"
Take your ice skates somewhere you won't run into any other skaters. Don't own skates?Keep your eye out for a pair at a thrift store or you can purchase a pair off of Amazon. In a slot canyon, there is little consequence to falling through the ice but if you go to a lake make sure the ice is thick enough to safely skate on.
2) Paddleboard on a calm lake
Dress appropriately and always pack a leash, PFD, and water. Keep to the edges of the lake and feel free to kneel or sit down if you feel more comfortable. A thermos of hot chocolate tastes amazing out on the board.
3) Hike to a Waterfall
I'm lucky enough to be able to drive down to southern Utah on winter weekends. In snowier conditions use snowshoes or strap a pair yaktrax to your snow boots or hiking boots.
4) Rent a Yurt
If you're up for more than just a day trip but aren't quite up for snow camping, consider staying in a yurt. I grew up reading books by flashlight in a yurt after a day of cross country skiing. Yurts are almost always outfitted with a wood burning stove and a nearby outhouse. Some yurts allow you to drive up to them even in the winter while others require a cross country ski or fat bike ride with all your gear in tow.
5) Throw a hatchet in your backyard
Want to get outside with only an hour or two to spare? Set up a target and throw the hatchet. Watch a few youtube tutorials. The spacing between your arm and the target is important in order for the hatchet to be in the appropriate position to strike the target.
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