Here are some fun winter activities to keep you busy this holiday season.
Tobogganing
Tobogganing is a classic winter activity that brings out the child in everyone. Alberta's rolling hills provide the perfect terrain for this activity. Remember to prioritize safety while enjoying this sport:
- Everyone should sit face-forward on their sleds with their feet downhill. Never go down the hill face-first as this can lead to serious head injuries.
- Guardians should stick around while kids sled, and make sure all sledders wear a helmet. Sledding injuries often include skull fractures.
- Always remain seated on a toboggan or sled. Never stand or lie down when sledding down.
- Bundle up, check for obstacles, and make sure the landing area is safe. Avoid steep and/or icy hills.
- Avoid exposed skin on very cold days.
Here are some locations where you can enjoy tobogganing:
Ice Skating
Ice skating is another popular winter activity in Alberta. Whether you're a beginner or an expert, there's something for everyone. Here are some tips:
- Wear lighter clothes: Choose clothes that are easy to move in and won't get heavy when wet. Remember, ice skating is exercise, so your body will heat up.
- Bend your knees: It's important to keep your knees slightly bent while skating. This helps maintain balance and control.
- Look where you're going: Try not to look down at your feet. Instead, focus on where you want to go.
- Use both feet evenly: Don't rely on one foot more than the other. Using both feet evenly will help you maintain stability and control.
- Dress for comfort and safety: Wear protective gear like helmets and knee pads to prevent injuries.
- Choose the right skates: The right skates can make a big difference. They should fit well and provide good ankle support.
- Practice off the ice: Before you step onto the ice, practice your movements off the ice. This can help you get comfortable with the basic techniques.
Check out these locations for outdoor ice rinks.
Cross Country Skiing
Cross country skiing is a great way to explore the beautiful winter landscapes of Alberta. It's also a fantastic workout!
- Dress in layers: Cross-country skiing is an aerobic activity, and you can overheat quickly if dressed too warmly. Opt for moisture-wicking underwear to keep dry.
- Understand the basic movement: Start by walking on the skis, and soon you'll be gliding between steps. The motions of skiing come naturally, so don't worry too much about moving your arms initially.
- Master the stance: Stand on flat ground with your skis parallel to each other. Bend forward at the ankles, and slightly at your knees. Keep your torso straight and upright.
- Learn to roll your ankles and knees: Roll your ankles and knees towards each other and dig the inside edge of the skis into the snow. This helps in maintaining balance and control.
- Going downhill: When going downhill on cross-country skis, remember that you can pick up your feet very freely to tweak the direction of your ski.
- Get fit for the trails: Cross-country skiing can be physically demanding, so it's important to prepare yourself physically before hitting the trails.
Learn where to cross country ski in Alberta.
Winter Picnic
A winter picnic might sound like a cold idea, but with the right tips and preparation, it can be a warm and cozy experience. Layer up, bring a thermos filled with hot chocolate or soup, and don't forget some snacks. Starting a fire will not only keep you warm but also adds a magical touch to your winter picnic.
Winter Camping
If you're more adventurous, try winter camping. Alberta's national parks offer stunning locations for this activity. Visit Travel Alberta for more information. Don't forget to make the ultimate smores while camping!
Alberta transforms into a hub of outdoor activities during the winter. Whether you want to enjoy a quiet picnic in the snow, go sledding down a hill, or camp under the starlit winter sky, there's something for everyone. So bundle up, step outside, and enjoy the magic of winter in Alberta!
This Home For The Holidays feature is brought to you by Great West Media Content Studio and in part by the Sponsors on this page. It is not written by and does not necessarily reflect the views of the editorial staff.
