21 Fun Things to Do in the Snow (Even If You’re Not Skiing)
Not a skier? No problem!
There are plenty of ways to experience winter without hitting the slopes.
Whether you’re looking for adventure, relaxation, or playful fun, these 21 activities will make your winter getaway unforgettable.
Let’s dive in! ❄️☃️✨
1. Snowshoe Down a Scenic Trail
Snowshoeing is easy to learn, a great workout, and leads you to breathtaking winter landscapes.
Rent a set of snowshoes and wander through forests, across frozen lakes, and along mountain trails.
It’s serene, low-cost, and doesn’t require any specific skills—just an adventurous spirit! Pack a thermos of hot cocoa for a cozy, scenic outing.
Perfect for solo travelers, couples, and families seeking winter adventure.
2. Take a Horse-Drawn Sleigh Ride
Nothing says winter wonderland like bundling up under a blanket in a horse-drawn sleigh.
This storybook experience is available in many ski towns and snowy resorts.
Glide through snow-covered woods or open fields to the sound of jingling sleigh bells.
Some tours even end with hot cider, mulled wine, or s’mores by a fire. It’s a romantic and family-friendly activity straight out of a holiday movie.
3. Go Tubing for an Adrenaline Rush
If you love speed and laughter but don’t want to ski, tubing is the perfect thrill.
Most ski resorts have tubing hills where you simply sit, hold on, and enjoy the ride.
Race friends or link tubes together for extra fun.
Some locations even offer night tubing under glowing LED lights for an epic experience.
Best part?
No experience necessary—just a taste for adventure!
4. Build the Ultimate Snowman
Tap into your childhood creativity by crafting a classic snowman.
Add personality with branches, scarves, buttons, and a carrot nose.
Go big with a whole snow family or get ambitious with a snow animal.
Turn it into a fun contest to see who can build the most creative sculpture.
Don’t forget to snap some fun photos before it melts away!
5. See the Northern Lights (If You’re Lucky!)
Snowy destinations like Alaska, Norway, and Canada offer stunning views of the Northern Lights.
On clear winter nights, bright green and purple lights dance across the sky. Bundle up, find a dark open space, and let the magic unfold.
Check the aurora forecast to boost your chances of seeing them. It’s one of the most mesmerizing natural phenomena you’ll ever witness.
6. Ice Skate on a Frozen Lake
Nothing compares to the thrill of gliding across a naturally frozen lake under an open sky.
Many winter towns have picturesque outdoor rinks, often lit with twinkling lights.
If you’re a beginner, just take it slow and enjoy the experience—no need to be a pro.
Afterward, warm up with hot chocolate or spiced cider at a nearby café. A quintessential winter pastime that’s both cozy and fun with friends.
7. Try Your Hand at Ice Fishing
For a peaceful winter experience, give ice fishing a shot on a frozen lake.
Bundle up, drill a hole, and see what you can catch! Most guided tours provide heated shacks, equipment, and even snacks.
Even if you don’t reel in anything, simply casting a line can be a meditative way to spend time outdoors.
Perfect for those who love quiet moments in nature.
8. Make Snow Angels & Play Like a Kid Again
This one’s simple, free, and fun—just fall into fresh snow and spread your arms and legs.
Take a cute winter selfie or group photo to capture the moment. It’s an instant throwback to childhood snow days.
Try it at night under the stars for a dreamy experience.
The best, laziest way to enjoy the snow!
9. Soak in an Outdoor Hot Spring or Jacuzzi
Imagine soaking in a steaming hot spring surrounded by snow—pure perfection.
Destinations like Iceland, Colorado, and Japan offer stunning hot springs with incredible views.
Even many hotels and cabins have outdoor hot tubs, providing the coziest escape.
Add a glass of wine or hot cocoa for peak relaxation. There’s no better way to unwind and savor the winter landscape.
10. Hike to a Frozen Waterfall
Winter hiking unveils breathtaking frozen waterfalls that look straight out of a fairy tale.
Destinations like Canada, Iceland, and the U.S. Rockies boast some of the most stunning spots.
Wear sturdy boots and warm layers for the trek.
Seeing a fully frozen waterfall up close is an unforgettable experience, perfect for photographers and nature lovers alike.
11. Experience the Thrill of Dogsledding
Dogsledding is one of the most exhilarating ways to explore a snow-covered wilderness.
There’s nothing quite like racing across frozen landscapes with a team of huskies leading the way.
Many places offer guided tours, and some even let you learn how to drive the sled yourself.
This bucket-list experience is most famous in Alaska, Canada, and Scandinavia. A thrilling way to connect with nature and animals.
12. Roast Marshmallows & Enjoy S’mores by a Cozy Fire
A winter bonfire under a starry sky is pure magic.
Wrap up in a blanket, roast marshmallows, and indulge in classic s’mores.
Sip hot cider and swap stories with friends and family. If you’re lucky, you might even catch a meteor shower or glimpse the Northern Lights.
The perfect excuse to embrace the winter chill while staying warm and cozy.
13. Take a Winter Wildlife Safari
Winter landscapes are home to majestic wildlife like moose, bison, and even wolves.
Join a guided wildlife safari in places like Yellowstone, Canada, or Scandinavia. Snow-covered backdrops make spotting animals even easier.
A fantastic alternative to skiing, this adventure offers incredible photography opportunities.
Perfect for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.
14. Try Ice Climbing for an Extreme Adventure
If you’re up for the ultimate adrenaline rush, ice climbing is a must. It may seem extreme, but beginners can join guided tours with expert instructors.
You’ll use ice axes and crampons to ascend frozen waterfalls—challenging but incredibly rewarding.
World-class ice climbing spots include Colorado, Norway, and Switzerland.
A unique way to push your limits and embrace winter adventure.
15. Explore an Ice Castle or Stay in an Ice Hotel
Step into a real-life winter wonderland by visiting an ice castle or ice hotel.
These intricately carved ice structures are illuminated with colorful lights, creating a dreamlike atmosphere.
Must-see spots include Quebec’s Hôtel de Glace and Sweden’s Icehotel.
Some even offer overnight stays where you sleep in a cozy fur-lined ice room. A truly magical winter experience.
16. Snowmobiling Through Stunning Landscapes
For speed lovers, snowmobiling is a must-do winter adventure.
Ride through snowy meadows, across frozen lakes, and along mountain trails.
Guided tours take you through untouched winter scenery in places like Alaska, Canada, and the Rockies.
A thrilling way to explore the winter wilderness beyond skiing or snowboarding.
17. Try Fat Biking on Snowy Trails
Think biking is just for summer?
Fat biking—with wide tires designed for snow—turns cycling into a winter thrill.
Many ski towns offer designated snow trails for fat biking. It’s a fun workout and a unique way to experience the outdoors without needing a ski lift.
Top destinations include Colorado, Finland, and Montana. A perfect blend of fitness, adventure, and scenic beauty.
18. Take a Scenic Gondola or Tram Ride
Want breathtaking winter views without hiking?
Hop on a gondola or tram ride to take in snowy mountain peaks.
Many ski resorts offer scenic rides leading to panoramic viewpoints, cozy lodges, and mountaintop dining.
Destinations like Banff, Whistler, and the Swiss Alps provide unreal winter vistas. An easy yet stunning way to soak in winter’s beauty.
19. Sleep in a Glass Igloo Under the Northern Lights
Imagine drifting off to sleep while watching the aurora dance above you.
Destinations like Finland and Norway offer glass igloos with panoramic sky views.
These heated domes provide a cozy yet surreal winter experience. You might even spot reindeer wandering outside your window.
A once-in-a-lifetime bucket-list stay for winter lovers.
20. Curling — It’s More Difficult Than You Think!
Curling is a quirky but fun winter sport that’s simple enough to try out even for novices.
Most winter towns have an indoor or outdoor curling rink, and you can book a game.
It’s a combination of strategy, balance and teamwork, a bit like bowling on ice.
You’ll laugh a lot trying to learn how to sweep the ice and slide the stone just right.
21. The Joy of a Photoshoot On A Snowy Day
With an exquisite, snowy backdrop, some of the best travel photos are taken.
Suit up in chunky winter gear, pack a camera and wander through picture-postcard vistas.
Photograph snowy trees, icy lakes and cosy winter cabins.
The snow glows pink, purple and gold in the light of morning or sunset.
It is an easy yet unique way to turn your winter memories into keepsakes!
