Free Outdoor Activities to Enjoy During the Winter Months

1. Explore Local Hiking Trails

Hiking isn’t just a summer activity! During winter, familiar trails transform into serene, snow-covered landscapes. Many trails are open year-round and are free to access. Winter hiking provides a peaceful escape, with fewer crowds and the opportunity to experience nature in a quieter, more reflective way.

Tips for Winter Hiking:

• Wear sturdy, waterproof boots.

• Dress in layers to stay warm and dry.

• Use trekking poles for stability on icy terrain.

• Check trail conditions and weather forecasts before heading out.

Bonus: Look for local conservation areas or national parks that offer free entry during off-peak seasons.

2. Go Ice Skating on Natural Rinks

Lakes and ponds often freeze over in the winter, creating a natural rink for ice skating. Many communities maintain these natural rinks for public use, making them a fun and free alternative to paid indoor skating venues. It’s a great way to practice your balance and enjoy a classic winter pastime.

Safety First:

• Ensure the ice is at least 4 inches thick for skating.

• Look for signs indicating safe skating areas.

• Always skate with a buddy for added safety.

3. Host a Winter Scavenger Hunt

A scavenger hunt is an excellent way to get outside with family or friends and explore your neighborhood or local park. Winter adds an extra layer of challenge and fun as you search for seasonal items like pinecones, animal tracks, icicles, or red berries.

How to Organize:

• Create a list of items that participants need to find.

• Add a time limit to keep it exciting.

• Encourage creativity, like snapping photos instead of collecting items.

This activity is perfect for kids and adults alike and costs nothing but a little imagination!

4. Build a Snow Village

Why stop at a snowman when you can build an entire snow village? Gather your family or friends and let your creativity run wild. Create snow forts, snow animals, or even snow castles. You can add natural decorations like sticks, pinecones, and stones to bring your creations to life.

Pro Tip: If you’re feeling ambitious, host a friendly snow-building competition and invite neighbors to participate. Here is a link to build a snow fort

5. Go Birdwatching

Winter is an excellent time for birdwatching, as many species are easier to spot against the bare branches and snow. Bring a pair of binoculars and a bird identification guide, or download a free birding app to track your finds.

What to Look For:

• Chickadees, cardinals, and blue jays are common winter birds.

• Watch for migratory species if you live in areas with milder winters.

• Look for nests and observe how birds adapt to the colder weather.

Birdwatching is a peaceful and meditative activity that connects you to the rhythms of nature.

6. Try Snowshoeing

If you have access to a pair of snowshoes—or can borrow or rent some—you’ll open up a whole new way to explore snowy landscapes. Snowshoeing is a low-impact, calorie-burning activity that doesn’t require expensive equipment beyond the snowshoes themselves. Many trails that are inaccessible by foot in deep snow become accessible with snowshoes.

Beginner-Friendly Advice:

• Start on flat, easy terrain.

• Use poles for extra stability.

• Wear moisture-wicking clothing to stay comfortable like our Cold Guard Fleece Tights

Some local parks even offer free snowshoe lending programs, so check your area!

7. Take a Winter Photography Walk

Winter landscapes are breathtaking, with frosty trees, shimmering icicles, and soft snowfalls creating picture-perfect scenes. Grab your camera or smartphone and head outside to capture the beauty of the season.

Ideas for Winter Photography:

• Sunrises and sunsets, which have a unique winter glow.

• Frost patterns on windows and leaves.

• Wildlife in snowy settings.

• Reflections in icy streams or puddles.

Photography walks are an excellent way to stay active and creative during the winter months.

8. Have a Bonfire Night

There’s nothing like gathering around a crackling fire on a cold winter night. Many communities allow bonfires in designated areas or on private property, so grab some firewood and invite friends or family for an outdoor evening of warmth and connection.

Make It Special:

• Bring along marshmallows, chocolate, and graham crackers for s’mores.

• Sing winter songs or share stories around the fire.

• Dress warmly and bring blankets for extra coziness.

Always follow fire safety guidelines and check for any local regulations before lighting a fire.

9. Go Stargazing

Winter offers some of the clearest skies of the year, making it an ideal time for stargazing. Bundle up, grab a thermos of hot cocoa, and head to a dark, open area to admire the night sky.

What to Watch For:

• Winter constellations like Orion, Taurus, and Gemini.

• Meteor showers, such as the Quadrantids in January.

• The Milky Way, if you’re in a low-light pollution area.

Free stargazing apps can help you identify celestial objects and constellations, adding an educational element to this relaxing activity.

10. Try Winter Yoga

Who says yoga is only for indoor studios? Winter yoga is a refreshing way to connect with your body and the environment. Bundle up, bring a yoga mat, and find a peaceful outdoor space to stretch and meditate.

Tips for Outdoor Yoga in Winter:

• Choose a wind-protected area.

• Use a thick mat to insulate against the cold ground.

• Focus on slow, grounding poses to stay warm.

Invite a friend for added motivation and accountability.

There are so many options for free outdoor activities during the colder months of the year. These are just a small sample of what you can do. From Zip Hers to you, enjoy the cooler months and remember to have fun.