The weather is chilly and the days are short. It can be easy to hunker down with hot chocolate, Netflix, and comfy slippers. Yet there’s a whole world out there ready to be explored and experienced! Depending on where you live, winter can be such a challenging time to be outside. Oftentimes it becomes easier to simply pursue indoor activities that don’t require facing unpredictable weather or harsh elements. As someone who typically gets restless during the winter months, I’ve decided to compose a helpful list of outdoor pursuits that I’ve enjoyed over the years.

1. Become an Amateur Bird Watcher

Bird watching is fascinating! In the winter, it is often easier to spot birds due to the lack of foliage. I keep my bird feeder well-stocked and frequently attempt to identify my feathered friends using local bird guides or Cornell Lab. In many areas, there are birding groups that meet regularly, even during covid (with restrictions). Consider picking up a pair of binoculars and heading out to a natural area near your home to spot these amazing creatures.

2. Grab a Paddle!

Although many associate kayaking and canoeing as activities better-suited for warmer weather, winter can be an excellent time to head out onto open water. I suggest finding a calm lake or inlet that is relaxing, rather than opting for a raging river that will leave you soaked and cold within the first few moments. Some places offer rentals year-round, whereas other options involve finding a friend who will let you use his/her watercraft. Dress warmly and paddle hard to fend off the chills!

3. Conquer a Summit

Winter hiking presents an entirely new challenge. Colder weather, icy conditions, and sometimes even snow can add a more adventurous element to an otherwise blasé trail. Adding traction cleats to your shoes or boots can be a handy tool when setting out on a path covered in ice. I enjoy tackling summit hikes during the winter since the incline adds a strenuous element, keeping my heart rate up and my body warm. I suggest wearing layers so you can manage the changes in temperature between the sunshine, wind, and time of day.

4. Start a Nature Journal

Before I began teaching at a school that valued nature journaling, I had never personally recorded my own nature-based wonderings or reflections. After watching my students enjoy and benefit from regular nature journaling, I started my own and highly recommend it as a winter outdoor activity. Nature journals are very flexible in that they can be adapted to suit your personal interests and capabilities. Try starting off with some basic sketches, observations, poetry, or questions. You can also include quotes or press found items, such as leaves. Lily and Thistle have an article about getting started on nature journals, and you can also check out the National Wildlife Federation’s blog.

5. Go For a Run

I know, I know – running isn’t the most creative outdoor activity and can be very uncomfortable in the winter time. Bundling up takes time, and then I’m often left feeling sweaty and cold at the same time. Gross. But here’s why running in winter made the list: it allows me to become familiar with my local place. Running even a mile or two around my neighborhood facilitates my recognition of local wildlife and my appreciation of the subtle weather changes. I even get to say hi to a few neighbors and inadvertently scare a few dogs. Somedays my runs end up being a fast walk or a jog/skip situation, but I always enjoy getting out of the house to observe the immediate world around me.

So next time you feel tempted to spend your weekend indoors, challenge yourself to get outside for a bit this winter, and breathe some fresh air.

Any other favorite activities I’ve missed? Leave a comment!