By Lisa Owens

I know that winter has come when I can walk outside on a day like today, and think how warm 45°s feels. I do not tolerate cold well. I come from a warmer place where 45°s might as well be a subfreezing temperature. Cold aside, I do like the snow. It’s gorgeous. I can’t deny it. It seems that most people either love it or hate it, and I think I’ve found the solution to learning to love the snow.

Winter Sports!

Yes, you can still enjoy the outdoors in the winter. This is the season that Utah is known for. The snow is here and the ski lifts are open. There are so many outdoor activities to do in Utah in the winter. Just because you aren’t a skier doesn’t mean you have to stay indoors. Here is a list of a plethora of great outdoor activities to keep you moving these winter months.

• Ski and Snowboard – Utah is famous for it’s snow. Skiing and snowboarding are great ways to get some exercise, and get out of the smog in the valley. If you’re tight on money try night skiing, most parks will offer a discounted rate. Many also offer discounts if you’re new to the sport. By checking here you can find quick rates, info, snow reports, and opening dates for all the resorts.
• Cross-Country Skiing – Great exercise, and great way to enjoy the beautiful Utah scenery. This is one of my favorite winter activities, and is quite affordable. For an unbeatable scenic trip I recommend cross-country skiing at Bryce Canyon. This site has a list of all cross-country skiing locations in Utah.
• Snowshoeing – Most major outdoors sports stores will let you rent some snowshoes for the day. This is also a great activity if you enjoy hiking. Remember to dress warm, and enjoy the wildlife. Here is a list of snowshoe trails in Utah.
• Ice-Skating – The Peaks Arena (right by Seven Peaks) is a great place in Utah Valley for ice-skating. Rent your skates, and even give figure skating lessons a try.
• Ice-Hokey – The Peaks Arena also offers adult and youth Ice Hockey programs, along with pick-up games. If you’re not that great on skates then try Broomball. A lot like Ice Hockey, but no skates required.
• Indoor Rock Climbing – Great indoor exercise that is a nice change from the usual gym scene. Locations for indoor rock climbing can be found here.
• Enjoy the lights – It’s free! Temple Square in Salt Lake, and Christmas Pond (aka Salem Pond) are great places to walk around and see the lights for free.
• Sledding – Find a hill, buy a sled. It’s easy, it’s cheap, and it’s fun.
• Build a snowman – Go ahead, Calvin and Hobbes style.

Alright. No more excuses. Get our there, and enjoy the season! It’s shown that those who get outside are less likely to get the flu, and don’t usually suffer from the winter blues.