21 Fun Things to Do in the Snow (Even If You’re Not Skiing)
Not a skier? No problem!
There are so many ways to enjoy winter without hitting the slopes.
Whether you’re looking for adventure, relaxation, or playful fun, these 21 activities will make your snowy getaway unforgettable.
Let’s dive in! ❄️☃️✨
1. Go Snowshoeing on a Scenic Trail
Snowshoeing is easy to learn, great exercise, and takes you deep into winter wonderlands.
Rent a pair of snowshoes and explore forests, frozen lakes, and mountain trails at your own pace.
It’s peaceful, budget-friendly, and doesn’t require any special skills—just a sense of adventure!
Bring along a thermos of hot cocoa and make it a cozy, scenic outing.
Perfect for solo travelers, couples, and families looking for a winter adventure.
2. Take a Horse-Drawn Sleigh Ride
Nothing says winter magic like snuggling under a blanket in a horse-drawn sleigh.
Many ski towns and snowy resorts offer this storybook experience with stunning backdrops.
Glide through snow-covered forests or open meadows while listening to the jingle of sleigh bells.
Some tours even include hot cider, mulled wine, or s’mores by the fire afterward.
It’s a romantic and family-friendly activity that feels straight out of a holiday movie.
3. Try Tubing for an Adrenaline Rush
If you love speed and laughter but don’t want to ski, tubing is the way to go.
Most ski resorts have dedicated tubing hills, and all you need to do is sit back and hold on.
Race your friends or link tubes together for extra fun.
Some places even offer night tubing with glowing LED lights for an epic experience.
Bonus? No skills required—just a love for thrills!
4. Build the Ultimate Snowman
Channel your inner childhood creativity by building a classic snowman.
Use branches, scarves, buttons, and carrots to give your frosty friend personality.
Take it to the next level by building an entire snow family or even a snow animal.
Make it a fun competition to see who can create the most imaginative snow sculpture.
Capture it with fun photos before it melts away!
5. Experience the Northern Lights (If You’re Lucky!)
Some snowy destinations, like Alaska, Norway, and Canada, offer breathtaking views of the Northern Lights.
On clear winter nights, you can see vibrant green and purple lights dancing in the sky.
Bundle up, find a dark, open spot, and let the magic unfold.
Check the aurora forecast to increase your chances of seeing them.
It’s one of the most awe-inspiring natural phenomena you’ll ever witness.
6. Go Ice Skating on a Frozen Lake
Nothing beats the feeling of gliding across a natural frozen lake under an open sky.
Many winter towns have beautiful outdoor rinks, often surrounded by twinkling lights.
If you’re a beginner, just take it slow and enjoy the experience—no need to be a pro.
Warm up afterward with hot chocolate or spiced cider at a nearby café.
It’s a classic winter activity that’s both romantic and fun with friends.
7. Try Your Hand at Ice Fishing
For a unique, slow-paced winter experience, try ice fishing on a frozen lake.
Bundle up in warm gear, drill a hole, and see what you can catch!
Many guided tours provide heated shacks, equipment, and even snacks.
Even if you don’t catch anything, it’s a relaxing way to enjoy the outdoors.
Great for those who love peaceful, quiet moments in nature.
8. Make Snow Angels Like a Kid Again
This one’s simple, free, and fun—just fall into fresh snow and spread your arms and legs.
Capture the moment with a cute winter selfie or a group shot.
It’s an instant throwback to childhood winter days.
Do it at night under the stars for a dreamy experience.
A perfect, no-effort way to enjoy the snow!
9. Relax in an Outdoor Hot Spring or Jacuzzi
Soaking in a steaming hot spring or outdoor jacuzzi while surrounded by snow? Perfection.
Destinations like Iceland, Colorado, and Japan have famous hot springs with unreal views.
Even hotels and cabins often have outdoor hot tubs—the ultimate cozy retreat.
Add a glass of wine or hot cocoa for peak relaxation.
There’s no better way to unwind and soak up the winter scenery.
10. Hike to a Frozen Waterfall
Hiking isn’t just for summer—winter hikes lead to incredible frozen waterfalls.
Destinations like Canada, Iceland, and the U.S. Rockies have spectacular spots.
Wear sturdy boots and warm layers to stay comfortable on the trail.
The sight of a completely frozen waterfall is something straight out of a fairy tale.
Perfect for photographers, adventure lovers, and anyone who enjoys nature.
11. Go Dogsledding for an Unforgettable Ride
Dogsledding is a thrilling and unique way to explore the snow-covered wilderness.
Feel the rush of gliding across frozen landscapes as a team of huskies leads the way.
Many places offer guided tours where you can even learn to drive the sled yourself.
Destinations like Alaska, Canada, and Scandinavia are famous for this experience.
It’s an exciting, bucket-list adventure that lets you connect with nature and animals.
12. Have a Cozy Bonfire with S’mores and Stories
Winter bonfires are pure magic, especially under a starry sky.
Gather around a crackling fire, wrap yourself in a warm blanket, and roast marshmallows.
Make classic s’mores, sip on hot cider, and share fun stories with friends or family.
If you’re lucky, you might even catch a meteor shower or the Northern Lights.
It’s the perfect way to embrace the winter chill while staying warm and cozy.
13. Go on a Winter Wildlife Safari
Snowy landscapes bring out majestic winter wildlife—think moose, bison, and even wolves.
Take a guided wildlife safari in places like Yellowstone, Canada, or Scandinavia.
Winter is one of the best times to spot animals, as they stand out against the snow.
Photographers will love the serene, snow-dusted backdrops for capturing nature shots.
A great way to experience a different side of winter beyond just snow sports.
14. Test Your Skills at Ice Climbing
For an epic adrenaline rush, try climbing a frozen waterfall or ice wall.
It looks extreme, but beginners can join guided tours with expert instructors.
You’ll use ice axes and crampons to scale the frozen surface—it’s both challenging and rewarding.
Destinations like Colorado, Norway, and Switzerland offer world-class ice climbing.
An unforgettable way to challenge yourself and embrace winter adventure.
15. Explore a Magical Ice Castle or Ice Hotel
Step into a real-life winter wonderland by visiting an ice castle or ice hotel.
These intricately carved icy structures are lit with colorful lights, creating a dreamlike atmosphere.
Famous spots like Quebec’s Hôtel de Glace and Sweden’s Icehotel are must-sees.
Some even let you stay overnight in an ice room, bundled up in cozy furs.
It’s a one-of-a-kind winter experience straight out of a fairy tale.
16. Ride a Snowmobile Through Stunning Landscapes
For those who love speed and adventure, snowmobiling is a must-try.
Race across snow-covered meadows, frozen lakes, and mountain trails.
Guided tours take you through remote, untouched winter scenery.
You can rent snowmobiles in Alaska, Canada, the Rockies, and many ski resorts.
Perfect for anyone who wants a thrilling alternative to skiing or snowboarding.
17. Go Fat Biking on Snowy Trails
Cycling isn’t just for summer—fat bikes with oversized tires make it possible in the snow.
Many winter towns have dedicated snow trails for fat biking adventures.
It’s a great workout and a fun way to explore the outdoors without needing a ski lift.
Destinations like Colorado, Finland, and Montana offer stunning winter trails.
An exciting mix of fitness, adventure, and scenic views.
18. Take a Gondola or Scenic Tram Ride for Breathtaking Views
Want to see snowy mountain peaks without hiking? Take a gondola or tram ride.
Many ski resorts offer scenic rides that take you high above the winter landscape.
At the top, enjoy panoramic views, cozy lodges, and even mountaintop dining.
Some destinations, like Banff, Whistler, and the Swiss Alps, have unreal winter views.
A perfect activity for sightseers, photographers, and anyone who loves stunning scenery.
19. Sleep in a Glass Igloo Under the Northern Lights
Imagine falling asleep under a sky filled with dancing auroras.
In places like Finland and Norway, you can stay in glass igloos with panoramic sky views.
These heated igloos offer a cozy yet surreal winter experience.
You might even see reindeer walking through the snow outside your window.
A magical bucket-list stay for winter lovers.
20. Try Curling—It’s Harder Than It Looks!
Curling is a quirky yet fun winter sport that’s easy to try even for beginners.
Many winter towns have indoor or outdoor curling rinks where you can play.
It’s a mix of strategy, balance, and teamwork, kind of like bowling on ice.
You’ll get plenty of laughs learning how to sweep the ice and slide the stone just right.
A great way to try something new and bond with friends or family.
21. Capture the Beauty of Winter with a Snowy Photoshoot
A snowy backdrop makes for some of the most stunning travel photos.
Dress in cozy winter outfits, grab a camera, and explore picture-perfect landscapes.
Capture snow-covered trees, frozen lakes, and charming winter cabins.
Early morning or sunset light makes the snow glow with soft, dreamy hues.
An effortless but unforgettable way to preserve your winter memories.
