Winter is no time to hibernate! Whether you’re stationed in a snowy region or looking for a break from your routine, here are a few ideas to get out into the great outdoors.
Winter is blasting us with all its might. If you have a few days of leave coming up, you may be tempted to retreat inside and burrow under some blankets. Well, that’s a negative, soldier! Now’s the time to unleash your inner Yeti, Winter Warrior, or Snow Beast. Winter brings all sorts of outdoor activities that can challenge your usual exercise routine, build your physical endurance, help you connect with nature, and recharge your mental batteries. Even if you aren’t a fan of the cold, getting outside for a snow day can bring out the kid in you. Bundle up with friends and family members to build a snow fort or have a massive snowball fight.
Whether you’re stationed in a snowy region or looking for a break from your routine, here are a few ideas to help you get out into the great outdoors in wintertime.
Shred the Slopes in Colorado
Skiing, snowboarding, and tubing are always a hit for family and group getaways. If you’re looking for perfect powder, Colorado’s ski resorts are hard to beat. They offer a wide variety of slopes and activities to accommodate everyone from bunny-slope beginners to black-diamond pros. And let’s not forget the delight of gathering for après ski cocktails in the hot tub. Colorado Springs, which sits at the base of the Rocky Mountains, is the gateway to hidden local gems, as well as world-class ski resorts.
Consider using IHG® Army Hotels on Fort Carson as a base camp where you can acclimate to the altitude. Take a day or two to take in the sights. No matter which military branch you serve, you’re sure to be inspired at the United States Air Force Academy. Entrench yourself in the academy’s military history, then head to the planetarium, where you can travel through space without your feet ever leaving the ground. You can also get up close to a B-52 bomber, used during the Vietnam War.
Other can’t-miss spots for outdoor fun in Colorado Springs include the Colorado Wolf and Wildlife Center and an outdoor ice skating rink in the center of town. Get your blood pumping by jumping on one of the city’s elite-level, backcountry ski trails. The adventure continues with hiking, ATV tours, archery, and more. You can even climb Pikes Peak – America’s Mountain – which is open year-round, weather permitting.
When you’re ready to hit the ski slopes, it’s a 2.5-hour drive to Monarch Mountain, a laid-back, family-favorite resort. A bit farther down the highway, you’ll find the fashionable slopes of Breckenridge, Keystone, and Winter Park. If you time your visit right, you can catch some of the festive winter events, such as the annual Breckenridge Snow Sculpture Championships, where artists transfer blocks of snow into masterpieces.
Push Past Your Limits in Alaska
If you’re undaunted by sub-freezing temperatures and crave adventure that takes you out of your comfort zone, put Fairbanks, Alaska, on your travel list. This city lives up to its reputation as “America’s Last Frontier.” If you’re looking for the ideal outpost, consider Holiday Inn Express® Northern Lights Inn on Fort Wainwright. Be sure to fill up on the complimentary breakfast, because it will be you versus the elements when you go ATVing, snowshoeing, hunting, and cross-country skiing.
You should go on a dog sledding tour. Unleash the spirit of the Iditarod as you race through the Alaskan wilderness, led by an eager pack of dogs. Meet actual mushers and take plenty of selfies with your new pup pack. If you’re visiting in February, cheer on your favorite sled team during the Yukon Quest Alaska Dog Sled Race.
Here’s something else you can check off your bucket list: Fairbanks is one of the best places in the world to see the Northern Lights. Step outside your room or take a guided tour to witness this stunning natural light display. You can catch a glimpse of the lights during an evening soak at the Chena Hot Springs.
Before you head back to civilization, make a stop at North Pole, Alaska, and say “hello” to Santa and his reindeer at Santa Claus House. This charming spot celebrates the holiday spirit year-round.
Experience a Winter State of Mind in Wisconsin
While people in other states shudder at the mere hint of snow, the people of Wisconsin get fired up at the thought of months of frozen, outdoor fun. They joke that it only seems like winter lasts forever in their state! The parks, trails, and lakes bustling with locals during the warmer months transform into a winter wonderland of fun and challenging pursuits.
The counties surrounding IHG® Army Hotels Anderson Hall on Fort McCoy boast all the classic winter sports, including skiing, snowboarding, ice skating, and snowmobiling, along with a few other adventures that locals make their own.
One of the state's most popular activities is ice fishing. While it may not qualify as exercise – sitting around a fishing hole or huddled in a hut – it's a beloved tradition. Take the time to relax with the locals, enjoy a few brews, and swap fish stories.
Ice hockey is a serious sport here, and you won’t want to miss the chance to play on a frozen lake. Pick-up games are common, so ask around to see what’s happening during your stay.
If you’re looking for a unique adventure, make the three-hour trek to Minocqua Winter Park and try skijoring – a mix of dog sledding and cross-country skiing. It’s a very competitive sport in the local community. Amateur thrill seekers can join a guided tour that provides everything you need for an exhilarating ride.
If you love rock climbing, venture a couple of hours out from Fort McCoy to Wyalusing State Park, and take on ice climbing. The park’s tumbling waterfalls freeze into stunning, vertical ice formations. There are climbs for all levels found throughout the park, making it accessible for both novices and experienced climbers looking for a challenge.
While you’re visiting Wisconsin, be sure to sample the local cheeses. You haven’t lived until you’ve munched on some squeaky cheese curds, best enjoyed fresh and alongside a cold brew.
Resist the urge to hibernate! Don’t let the winter months melt away. Embrace the chill and discover how winter activities can energize you both physically and mentally. Military personnel are trained to adapt and thrive in any environment, so why not approach winter with that same spirit? Countless adventures are waiting for you in the ice and snow. Get outside and make the most of the season.