Winter is No Excuse to Miss Out on Fun Outdoor Activities 

By Susan Gundersen, nutritionist 

It’s a winter wonder land here in the Great Lakes region! Winter affords us the opportunity to wake up the senses, smell the fresh, clean air, and appreciate a shiver or two. Just because the sun is hiding many days of the week and the temperatures have dropped doesn’t mean that we need to hunker down, join the bears, and hibernate, using it as a reason to stay inside all day.  Winter months can bring on a whole new set of fun activities to explore with the family. 

Activities to keep us moving during these winter months and even get us outside provide a great change of pace and new awareness.  These are just a few activities that you and your family may consider while promoting outdoor fun. 

 Feed the Fowl:  Many birds stick around for the winter, and these friendly birds are easy to spot on a snowy backdrop. Make your days brighter during the winter months by putting out bird feeders for the birds. Send the children out to fill the feeders or venture out with binoculars to search for birds and other wildlife in the neighborhood. 

 Go Ice Skating:  Many of us live near lakes and when they have frozen over, take a spin out on the ice or find an ice rink to add extra activity. 

 Snow Men, Sledding, and Snow Angels: It may sound old fashioned, but all ages and pets, too, can enjoy rolling the parts for a snowman or making snow bricks for an igloo. Watch how your yard can be transformed!  

 Skiing and snowboarding are very popular:  Swiss Valley offers a few free days during the winter and lessons are available in addition to equipment rentals. Don’t forget St. Patrick’s County Park (near South Bend) or Love Creek (near Berrien Springs) for cross country skiing fun. 

 When was the last time you saw someone on snowshoes?  This is often forgotten but really gives a great workout. Make tracks on uncharted winter territory while looking the winter wildlife tracks. 

 Winter games like hockey, snowball fights, Fox and Geese, or Snow Snake can provide lots of action and the thrill of victory in the team challenges. 

 How about Ice Fishing?  Sitting on a stool, out in the open, listening to the quiet while bobbing a line and hook can bring action to those long winter months. Your catch will make some pretty good eating too, making it a great reason to get outside. 

Make the winter season a time to pursue new and exciting adventures. Getting the family outside for the winter season should be as easy as putting on snow boots and pants, and pointing the sleds to the great outdoors!