Pairing your outdoor physical activity with the morning sun can help treat seasonal affective disorder (SAD). Invite a friend or family member to join so you can get companionship at the same time, which helps combat social isolation and loneliness.
Below are a few ideas to inspire your fall and winter outdoor recreation. Some may be available as organized activities in your community. Check your local resources.
- Go skiing or snowboarding.
- Learn how to walk in snowshoes.
- Skate around an ice rink.
- Shovel snow. Learn how to do so safely.
- Play ice hockey.
- Pick up trash around town.
- Build snow sculptures or a snow fort.
- Splash through puddles after a rainstorm.
- Run sprints or stairs.
- Have a snowball fight.
- Go for a ride on a fat tire bike.
- Explore your city—walk or ride your bike.
- Go for a jog or a run.
- Play with your kids or grandkids.
- Pick up a tennis match.
- Explore your local farmer’s market (PDF).
- Go ice fishing.
- Practice cross-country skiing.
- Learn to play pickleball.
- Go down a hill on a sled.
- Rake the leaves in your—or a neighbor’s—yard.
- Prepare your garden for the spring. Winter is the perfect time to prune roses and add mulch.
- Volunteer to walk a shelter dog or a friend’s pet.
- Chop firewood.
- Make snow angels.
- Collect leaves with pretty fall colors.
- Go birdwatching.
- Gather evergreens to decorate your house.
- Spot animal tracks.
- Go stargazing.
- Create a stick maze.
- Challenge your friends to a game of HORSE or flag football.
- Visit a botanical garden. Winter can be a great time to see what you missed in the spring.
- Take a polar bear plunge.
- Chase a sunrise or sunset.
Here are a few additional considerations when exercising outdoors during the cooler months:
- Know how to stay safe in a thunderstorm and a snowstorm.
- Know the signs and treatment of hypothermia.
- Carry water and snacks.
- Since the sun sets earlier in the winter, carry reflective gear and flashlights, if needed.
- Wear layers—preferably with base layers that are warm yet wick sweat from your body.
- Have the proper equipment, from supportive shoes to essential gear.
- If needed, grab a first aid kit.
- Ensure your phone is fully charged.
Our health plans offer events and resources designed to improve your health and well-being. Many of them are free and open to the public!