Travel Tips

Winter Fun If You Don’t Ski

If you consider skiing a death-defying sport, there’s good news. Skipping the slopes doesn’t mean you’re limited to drinking hot chocolate or going to the spa. So what can you do if you DON’T ski?

Many destinations have outdoor activities that we associate with summertime—you just need to wear a lot more layers.

How about winter rafting? In Northern Michigan, Jordan Valley Outfitters offers guided rafting trips along the Jordan River, with the option of adding a snowshoe hike or dinner on the river bank.

Just outside of Vail and Beaver Creek, Colorado, visitors can try out winter fly fishing. Alpine River Outfitters has this option between October and May.

And get this—it costs 20 percent less than in the summertime, from $220 for a half day.

And you might think I’m crazy to suggest hiking in the winter, but it can be a great experience if you’ve got a guide … and a good pair of snowshoes.

A company in New Hampshire called Outdoor Escapes can tailor your hiking experience based on your preferences—whether you want to track wildlife or photograph frozen waterfalls and mountain views.

And last but not least…winter horseback riding?

That’s right, in Montana’s Big Sky Country, a working ranch called Jake’s Horses offers winter trail rides in Gallatin Canyon, which gets a lot less snow than the surrounding mountains.

Get more ideas with Weird, Wacky & Wonderful Winter Activities.

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