For some, winter is a time to cozy up with a hot drink and a nice fire, while others love to pile on the layers and get outside. While most winter-lovers stick to skiing, there are countless activities that can invigorate your winter season. Therefore, consider stepping out of your comfort zone with these exciting winter adventures.
Climb a Wall of Ice at the Bozeman Ice Fest, Bozeman, MT
If you’ve ever wanted to experience the thrill of climbing ice, head to the Bozeman Ice Festival taking place from December 11-13. Nestled in Montana’s Hyalite Canyon, this festival welcomes climbers of all skill levels, including renowned athletes like Conrad Anker, who regularly attends.
No need to worry about equipment; you can easily rent ice axes, crampons, boots, and helmets from festival exhibitors. The festival also hosts various clinics for everyone—ranging from beginners to advanced climbers—with options dedicated to women, people of color, and LGBTQ+ participants. Furthermore, enjoy food, movies, and mingling opportunities during your downtime!
Track Gray Wolves in Yellowstone National Park
Winter is the prime season for wildlife sightings in Yellowstone National Park. Embark on a week-long adventure deep into the Park’s Lamar Valley to track gray wolves. This region is home to these stealthy creatures, alongside Yellowstone’s famed megafauna, allowing for photography opportunities of bison, elk, moose, pronghorn, and bighorn sheep from the comfort of a pop-top safari truck.
Alongside wildlife watching, learn about Yellowstone’s wolves through expert naturalist guides who are renowned local scientists and wildlife photographers. High-powered spotting scopes and binoculars are supplied, along with warm boots and parkas. All trips are carbon offset in partnership with Natural Habitat, an affiliate of the World Wildlife Fund.
Cruise the Norwegian Fjords for Northern Lights, Ålesund, Norway
Long nights and shorter days during winter make it the ideal season for observing the Northern Lights in the Norwegian Fjords. The most effective way to catch a glimpse of this mesmerizing phenomenon is from a boat, away from the light pollution of any town. Experience breathtaking natural displays while enjoying exquisite dining and the cozy Scandinavian hygge aboard the recently refurbished wooden minesweeper, Gåssten.
This historic vessel sails from the Art Nouveau town of Ålesund, heading toward a tranquil location perfect for star gazing and Northern Lights viewing. Guests can enjoy meals in the ship’s intimate, sheep-skin adorned saloon. By day, explore the stunning Hjørundfjord, while keeping an eye out for orcas and sea eagles. Enjoy a cocktail at Øye, home to the famous Hotel Union, before indulging in traditional lutefisk on board as you await the enchanting lights above.
Ski the Last Degree with Polar Explorer Eric Larsen, North Pole
Embark on an unparalleled adventure as you traverse the final 60 nautical miles to the Earth’s Geographic North Pole. This extraordinary ski excursion typically spans seven to ten days and requires participants to ski across the shifting ice of the Arctic Ocean. This journey is not for the faint of heart or leg.
After a flight from Svalbard to the temporary Russian ice station Barneo, participants will be helicoptered to the 89th parallel before skiing with all their gear in sturdy pulk sleds, facing frigid temperatures between 20 to 45 degrees below zero. Led by legendary polar explorer Eric Larsen, this trip demands prior experience and a significant financial investment. For those without a polar expedition background, attending one of Larsen’s training courses will be necessary.
Skate the Rideau Canal, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
Ottawa’s Rideau Canal is recognized as the largest naturally frozen skating rink in the world and is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This unique 4.8-mile urban rink meanders through the city, where some locals even use it for their daily commutes! On average, around 20,000 visitors skate through the city daily, enjoying the views as they glide along.
Completing the entire length of the canal is equivalent to skating across 90 Olympic-sized hockey rinks. While the canal is natural ice, it is regularly maintained for smoothness. Skating remains free and is available 24/7, with beautiful illumination at night. Non-skaters can also join in the fun, with rental skates, sleighs for pushing, and amenities such as heated changing rooms and hot chocolate available. Don’t forget to try local delicacies like BeaverTails, a popular treat in Ottawa. Always check ice conditions before heading out!
