Winter is the most underrated season for outdoor fun and adventure. Here's why, where to go, and how to stay warm out there.
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Why Stargazing is Better in Winter (plus 6 Constellations to Spot)
Start Now: Winter is the Best Time to Go Birding
The Best Hot Chocolate Recipe Ever
5 Reasons to Try Cross-Country Skiing This Winter
You’re Never Too Old for a Snowball Fight—Here’s Why and How to Win
Early sunsets, clear nights, and leafless trees make this the true season for stars
Why Stargazing Is Better in Winter (Plus 6 Constellations to Spot)
Summer nights get all the glory, but winter is when the heavens really start to shine. That’s because cold air is naturally dry, and less airborne moisture means less haze. The result: crisp, clear nights that leave more stars visible to the naked eye, including these six constellations:
1. Big Dipper: Look for this ladle shape in the northern winter sky.
2. Little Dipper: Polaris, the North Star, forms the tail of the Little Dipper, a formation that nests right next to the Big Dipper in the winter sky.
3. Cassiopeia: Look for this M shape, thought to resemble a lady reclining in a chair. You’ll find Cassiopeia to the side of Polaris, opposite the Big Dipper.
4. Orion: A line of three bright stars comprises Orion’s belt, while stars above and below form the head and feet of the hunter. Betelgeuse, a reddish dying star, hangs just above and left of the belt.
5. Canis Major: Below and left of Orion, you’ll find Sirius, a.k.a. the Dog Star. In summer, Sirius can be hard to find, but it hangs high and bright in the winter sky, forming the neck of a dog-shaped cluster known as Canis Major.
6. Taurus: This V-shaped star cluster also reaches its zenith in winter. You’ll find it above and right of Orion.
Where to Go
Why We Go
What to Wear
Stars
The Health Benefits of
Polar Plunging
Health
Why It’s Worth Chasing the Northern Lights, according
to Science
Natural Awe
Why “Adventure Sledding” Raises the Bar on Winter Fun
Adventure
Wildlife
Comfort
Pure Fun
Fitness
What to Wear
Tester:
Rachel Laux, Colorado native raised on outdoor adventure
Gear Philosophy:
My go-to test is a backcountry splitboarding mission. If a product offers lightweight breathability on the ascent up the hill and insulating warmth on the ride down, it can perform anywhere.
Products Tested:
Arch Rock Double Wall Elite Mid Jacket, Black Beauty Warm Hybrid Leggings, and Back Beauty Softshell Pants
Click each tester
↳
Women's
Men's
Women's Moritza Shield™ Omni-Heat™ Boot
• Thermal-reflective lining and 200g insulation keeps you warm while the lightweight midsole gives you long-lasting comfort.
• Waterproof suede upper with fleece lining
• Combined with a rubber duck boot for protection
• 200g insulation
Rachel
Drew
Layering
+ WARMTH-BOOSTER TIP
“When my pack is loaded with extra gear—helmet, food, water, camera, etc.—I want just three hardworking layers. I use a baselayer, a fleece, and a jacket and mix and match as conditions change.” —Drew Stoll
Hat
Look for an insulating wool or synthetic number with a snug, close-to-the-head fit. If you hope to wear your hat under a hood, avoid pompoms.
Neck Gaiter
You lose nearly as much heat through your neck as through your head—which makes the oft-overlooked neck layer key. Look for a standalone gaiter or jackets and sweaters with high zip-up collars to seal in heat.
Baselayer
A thin next-to-skin layer on your legs and core is critical for wicking moisture away from the skin and preventing clamminess. Opt for wool and synthetic fabrics, both of which offer superior wicking and retain warmth when wet.
Insulating Layer
This is the workhorse of your winter warmth kit. Plan to bring a midlayer—like a wool sweater or fleece—and a down- or synthetic-insulated puffy. If you run cold, you may also want some lower-body insulation—either fleece-lined softshell pants or a pair of puffy pants.
Shell
Your outer shell is your primary defense against the elements. A waterproof-breathable rain shell and shell pants will keep you dry in the worst conditions.
Gloves and Mittens
Gloves offer the best dexterity and are usually a smart choice, but mittens provide superior warmth in the coldest temps. Pack two pairs of gloves and/or mittens in case one pair gets damp with sweat or snow.
Footwear
Waterproof winter boots and thin merino socks are the gold standard for winter adventure. Thicker socks can compress beneath your boot, squeezing your toes and impairing circulation.
01 The Test
02 The Tips
03 The Kit
As temperatures drop, build the ultimate winter-warmth kit to cover both your core and extremities.
Why We Go
Master winter layering with these foundational cold-weather essentials.
Can’t wait for winter? We get it. That’s exactly why a pair of Outside staffers hit the Colorado high country after the season’s first snowfall. Plus they got to test their new cold-weather kits, and get dialed for warmth and comfort. Here are their tips.
Where to Go
Only one winter hack is guaranteed to help you get out more, stay out longer, and have more fun—and that’s knowing how to stay warm. With the right gear and layering strategy, you can keep yourself comfortable in any weather. And that means winter is always a go. Here’s how to put together the perfect winter warmth kit from head to toe.
Tester:
Drew Stoll, a Colorado transplant who has lived (and played) in the Vail Valley for the past six years
Gear Philosophy:
Layer for big swings in temperature. Winter in the mountains can easily range 40 degrees from frigid predawn starts to midday summits.
Products Tested:
Outdoor Tracks Full Zip Fleece Jacket, Arch Rock Double Wall Elite Hooded Jacket, Alto Heat Pants, Expeditionist Boot
Camping
+ WARMTH-BOOSTER TIP
“In a winter camp, I’m a big sucker for the hot-water-bottle-in-the-sleeping-bag trick. And when my feet get cold, I’ll stuff the Arch Rock jacket down there for extra warmth.”
— Rachel Laux
Layers work for your legs as well. For the coldest temps, I paired the Back Beauty Warm Hybrid Leggings with Back Beauty Softshell Pants. The combo kept me plenty warm during the frigid predawn chill, and once the sun was up, the breathability and mobility were so good that I didn’t have to switch out layers. And the stretch of the rain-resistant pants? It felt like I was wearing another set of leggings. There’s zero constriction there—if I were able to do splits, I would do splits in these. And the pants have Omni-Shield water repellency, so they shed moisture and dried super fast after our tour—I wasn’t wet at all when we walked around town.
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Heat starts with the hood. On our overnight trip into the Indian Peaks Wilderness, we encountered subfreezing mornings and whipping wind—conditions that demand warm layers. The Arch Rock Double Wall Elite Mid Jacket provided immediate heat in the wind and the cold, thanks to its thermal-reflective Omni-Heat lining and weather-resistant synthetic insulation. Plus, the hood and its perfect fit really impressed me. The hood accommodates a hat but is not too bulky, so it didn’t sit awkwardly on my face or hang over my eyes. The extended hem length adds a little weight but is totally worth it. On cold mornings, that extra length feels like an indulgence and makes a big difference—more coverage means more warmth. On the move, the slits on either side allowed for flexibility when I was scrambling up rocks—no restrictions in any way.
Get the right pants for the job. Once, on a late-season tour, I repeatedly punched through sunbaked powder while wearing a pair of hiking pants that didn’t fit over my boots. Got totally soaked and miserable. After that I always make sure I have the best pants for cold-weather outings, and I love the Passo Alto III Heat Pants. They’re snow-ready without the bulk of snow pants, thanks to an Omni-Heat reflective lining and super-stretchy fabric. They kept me warm but still had an athletic feel—the slim fit is perfect, and I could still do lunges over logs without the pants binding or pulling against me, because they stretch as far as you can stretch. And wet snow was no problem; they shed moisture just fine and fit snugly over my boots. Bonus: the fleece-lined pockets are like on-demand hand warmers.
Space matters. Packing for a day in the backcountry has taught me the value of compressible, multitasking apparel. The more you can get out of individual layers the better. The Outdoor Tracks Full Zip Fleece Jacket is the perfect midlayer for changing conditions. It was super warm in the morning but didn’t make me feel sweaty and stifled when the sun came out. The Arch Rock Double Wall Elite Hooded Jacket also had the right recipe: the Omni-Heat thermal reflective lining kept me crazy warm yet added virtually zero bulk, so the Arch Rock didn’t feel like a big puffy jacket when I packed it away. One of my favorite benefits of the Omni-Heat lining is the way it provides instant warmth when you’re just starting out—that makes alpine starts way easier. And I was also impressed with how the Arch Rock blocked even whipping wind.
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Keep your feet warm. Nothing ruins a winter outing faster than cold, wet feet. Wearing the right footwear is key, and the Expeditionist Boot nailed it: waterproof, warm, and grippy. They felt comfortable after five minutes on the trail, and when we crossed a couple creeks and I stepped in the water (oops), my feet stayed perfectly dry. The waterproof-breathable Omni-Tech construction is bomber, and the Omni-Heat lining adds warmth without bulk. I also liked the super-durable feel of the leather uppers—it’s reassuring to have such solid boots in winter conditions.
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+ The wool blend warms your core, and Omni-Wick moves sweat away from your skin to keep you dry.
LEARN MORE
Tunnel Springs Wool Crew Baselayer Shirt
Women's
Men's
+ High-efficiency Omni-Heat Helix insulation cells manage heat and airflow to keep you warm, dry, and comfortable for active adventures.
+ Fine-tune the fit with a drawcord-adjustable hem.
+Stash small items in a zippered chest pocket.
LEARN MORE
Outdoor Tracks Full Zip Fleece Jacket
+ Pack light and stay out longer with a thermal-reflective Omni-Heat Infinity lining, which traps heat for high-efficiency warmth without added weight.
+Water-resistant fabric with layered Double Wall Elite construction blocks wind to maximize warmth.
LEARN MORE
Arch Rock Double Wall Elite Hooded Jacket
+ Perform in cold, wet conditions with stretchy weather-repelling pants backed by thermal-reflective Omni-Heat lining.
+ Leg zippers provide an extended opening to fit over boots.
LEARN MORE
Passo Alto III Heat Pants
+ The soft microfleece liner and pile shell combine for extra warmth.
LEARN MORE
Helvetia Sherpa Beanie
+ Stay trail-ready all year with waterproof suede leather on a modern duck boot bolstered by Omni-Heat thermal-reflective lining.
+ Adapt Trax outsole provides exceptional traction in wet conditions and improved performance in the rain and snow.
LEARN MORE
Expeditionist Shield
+ Keep your feet toasty with waterproof suede backed by fleece, Omni-Heat thermal-reflective lining, plus extra insulation.
+ The well-cushioned Techlite midsole offers all-day comfort with high energy return.
LEARN MORE
Moritza Shield
+ Washable acrylic yarn adds style with a soft microfleece band that keeps you cozy.
LEARN MORE
Agate Pass Cable Knit Beanie
+ High-rise waist stays put when bending and lunging.
+ Omni-Shield fabric offers UPF 50 sun protection with everyday rain and stain repellency.
LEARN MORE
Back Beauty Softshell Pants
+ Pack light and stay out longer with a thermal-reflective Omni-Heat Infinity lining, which traps heat for high-efficiency warmth without added weight.
+ Water-resistant fabric with layered Double Wall Elite construction blocks wind to maximize warmth.
LEARN MORE
Arch Rock Double Wall Elite Mid Jacket
+ Omni-Heat Helix insulation keeps you warm, dry, and comfortable for active adventures.
+ A half zip provides venting with less bulk.
+ Stash small items in a zippered chest pocket.
LEARN MORE
Outdoor Tracks Fleece Pullover
+ The wool blend warms your core, and Omni-Wick moves sweat away from your skin to keep you dry.
LEARN MORE
Tunnel Springs Wool Crew Baselayer Shirt
Northern Lights in the U.S.
Wild Ice Skating
National Parks Camping
Greatest Sledding Hills
Best Places to Bird
Bryce Canyon National Park, UT
While Bryce Canyon’s pink-and-orange-striped hoodoos are stunning in every season, nothing brings out their vibrant hues like a dusting of fresh snow. The North Rim Campground remains open for camping year-round. Target December through February for quiet trails and a higher likelihood of snowfall.
Say goodbye to the crowds and sweltering heat. Say hello to perfect solitude amid these stunning winter wonderlands.
7 National Parks with Incredible Winter Camping
Mattamuskeet Wildlife Refuge, NC
This quiet refuge rings the shore of North Carolina’s largest natural freshwater lake. A critical stopover point for snow geese and other life-list waterfowl, Mattamuskeet is a favorite of birders across the Southeast.
Winter is migration season, when rare birds come to roost all across the U.S. Here’s where to see them.
The 7 Best Places to Bird in Winter
Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge, VA
Tundra swans, snow geese, and migratory ducks all spend the winter at Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge, a pristine wetland in Virginia Beach.
Sachuest Point National Wildlife Refuge, RI
Rhode Island occasionally plays host to rare Arctic species like the snowy owl, but even in normal years its coastal refuges brim with unique species. Target Sachuest Point for a glimpse of harlequin ducks, Cooper’s hawks, and northern harriers.
Whitewater Draw, AZ
Thousands of sandhill cranes flock to the Southwest each year to breed and build their nests. Visit Whitewater Draw between October and March to see as many as 15,000 birds roosting at a single time.
Great Salt Lake, UT
Thanks to its high saline content, Utah’s Great Salt Lake never freezes—which makes it a perfect stopover point for migratory waterfowl. Head to the lake’s Farmington Bay from mid-January to March to spot bald eagles, pelicans, and tundra swans.
Dinosaur Ridge, CO
Each March, eagles, hawks, and falcons migrate across the Colorado Rockies. Dinosaur Ridge, near Golden, is one of the best places to see them. Join the local Hawk Watch citizen science group to meet fellow birders and contribute to the local raptor count.
Galveston, TX
The Gulf Coast of Texas is a hot spot for migratory waterfowl. Head to Galveston’s East Beach to spot sandhill cranes, American kestrels, and other migratory birds.
Crater Lake National Park, OR
Come winter, Crater Lake closes its main roads to vehicle traffic, making it the perfect time to explore via snowshoes or cross-country skis. Park at the Crater Lake Lodge and set out along the rim to reach the park’s designated backcountry campsites, which are open year-round.
Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, MI
When cold snaps descend upon Lake Superior, the natural arches and sandstone cliffs of Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore freeze into fantastical ice formations. Visit between December and March to glimpse the frozen cascades. Then, enjoy a night of snowy solitude in one of the park’s three snowshoe-accessed campgrounds.
Rainier National Park, WA
Rainier’s wildflower season gets all the hype, but this park’s winter scenery puts even the blooms to shame. Visit mid-January through mid-May to see snow-draped conifers, sparkling glades, and 360-degree views of Mount Rainier. Snow camping is allowed throughout the park.
Yellowstone National Park, WY
Visit Yellowstone in winter and you’ll feel like you’ve got the park’s 2.2 million acres all to yourself. You can access winter backcountry sites via snowshoes or skis, or drive into Mammoth Campground, which is open year-round.
Hot Springs National Park, AR
When the air turns brisk and the mosquitos disappear, camping in Arkansas really comes into its prime. Head to Hot Springs National Park for a weekend of soaking by day and cozy tent camping by night.
Shenandoah National Park, VA
Usually swamped with D.C.-area tourists, Shenandoah turns into a private Appalachian wonderland when the last leaves drop. Fortunately, backcountry camping is available year-round. Target the primitive huts along the Appalachian Trail for a cozy night out.
Seagull Lake, MN
Early freezes often lock Minnesota’s Seagull Lake into a thick layer of polished black ice. Located within the Boundary Waters wilderness area, Seagull is rimmed with coniferous forest, giving it a truly wild feel—and a stunning backdrop come sunset.
Flathead Lake, MT
Locals have been skating the north shore of Flathead Lake for more than 100 years. The Somer’s Bay area is frequently home to thick, clear, skateable ice. Just be sure to check local conditions before you go out.
Jacob’s Pond, MA
Just a half-hour south of Boston, this well-maintained pond provides valuable bird and fish habitat in summer and skateable ice in winter. The park’s dozens of miles of trail are also open to snowshoers and cross-country skiers.
Arthur Park, VT
Vermont is rife with skatable backcountry ponds, but Arthur Park might be home to one of the most unique. In winter, you can skate across the park’s eponymous pond and right into the Invernale Sea Caves, a series of caverns floored with smooth ice.
Rocky Mountain National Park, CO
When the Colorado Rockies experience a cold autumn and a late first snow, Emerald Lake freezes into a glassy, transparent rink perfect for alpine ice hockey. Keep an eye on conditions starting mid-October.
Whether you prefer swinging a hockey stick or sketching pirouettes, there’s no better venue than a secluded tree-ringed pond. You’ll need to proceed safely—ideally skating with an experienced local and testing ice thickness—but the profound quiet and snow-dusted scenery are well worth the effort. Here are some of the best places to start.
The 5 Best Spots for Wild Ice Skating in the U.S.
Theodore Roosevelt National Park, ND
Year-round camping, wide-open skies, and total solitude make this North Dakota park one of the most underrated in the U.S. Visit when the aurora borealis comes to town and you’ll really feel like you’ve gotten away with something. Target Buck Hill, one of the highest points in the park, for unobstructed views.
Bretton Woods, NH
Bretton Woods, a ski resort on the slopes of New Hampshire’s Mount Washington, gets aurora activity several days per year. Visitors can book snowshoe, fat-tire bike, and ski outings through the resort, making it easy to turn a night of aurora watching into a full weekend getaway.
Glacier National Park, MT
Crystalline alpine lakes, dense old-growth forest, and serrated ridgelines make Glacier National Park a bucket-list destination in any season. Now picture neon-green light rippling over all that scenery, and you’ve really got something to write home about. For the best photo ops, try to find a north-facing view along the shore of Lake McDonald.
Voyageurs National Park, MN
With more than 30 nights of aurora activity each year, Minnesota’s Voyageurs National Park is one of the best spots in the country to stake out a viewing. And because it’s a certified Dark Sky Park, you won’t have to worry about any light pollution dimming the show.
Priest Lake, ID
Located in Idaho’s Panhandle National Forest, Priest Lake is one of the state’s go-to destinations for photographers and skywatchers hoping to see the northern lights. Hill’s Resort, on the lake’s eastern shore, is a particularly popular viewpoint. Consider staying the night and renting a pair of snowshoes to make a weekend of it.
The northern lights are closer than you think. Here’s how to see them without leaving the lower 48.
5 Places to See the Northern Lights in the U.S. This Winter
Beech Mountain, NC
Not only is it free to sled at Beech Mountain, but the town maintains (and makes) snow as needed, ensuring reliable coverage throughout winter. Bring your own plastic sled, or rent one from the Beech Meadows Ski Shop.
Firecracker Hill, CO
Reliable snow, a consistent grade, and an unbeatable setting make Telluride’s Firecracker Hill famous among sledders statewide. Bring your own sled or rent one from the nearby Nordic Center.
Snow King Ski Area, WY
Jackson, Wyoming, is an epicenter for all winter sports—sledding included. For a full day of slope sliding, head to Snow King. Three groomed runs, a magic carpet ride, and on-site rentals make this ski resort one of the best sledding destinations in the West.
Donner Summit, CA
This slope, just northwest of Lake Tahoe, is one of the best public sledding hills in the area. Unlike many of the nearby resorts, it’s free to sled at Donner all day with just the cost of a parking pass. The plentiful snow is ideal for building ramps and kickers, and the gentle grade is family friendly.
Table Mountain, OR
Oregon is famous for its snow-play parks, and Table Mountain Winter Play Area is a local favorite. The hill is maintained with sleds and snow tubes in mind. A warming hut at the bottom makes it easy to dry damp mittens between runs.
A good sledding hill will have you laughing till your cheeks hurt. These slopes have just the right steepness, snow cover, and vibe to guarantee fun.
America’s Greatest Sledding
Level Up ^
Jackets Tested IN Colorado and Alaska
During winter, rare birds migrate south from northern climes for a precious window of time. Spot these five species before they take wing.
Start Now: Winter is the Best Time to Go Birding
Bohemian Waxwing:
Spot this painted beauty throughout the Northwest and the Northern Rockies during the winter months. It’s larger than the more common cedar waxwing, but just as striking.
Red-Breasted Nuthatch: Known for its masklike eye stripes, this nuthatch lives in Canada and the northern U.S. year-round. But in winter, it wanders as far south as Florida in search of more hospitable temperatures.
Snow Bunting:
This bright-eyed Canadian bird sports dark legs, an amber beak, and a characteristic snowy underbelly. It overwinters in the northern U.S., where it becomes a frequent patron among backyard bird feeders.
Tundra Swan:
The mighty tundra swan migrates south during the winter, often coming to rest in wetlands and ponds both in the Pacific Northwest and along the eastern coast from Delaware to North Carolina.
Pine Siskin:
Normally a resident of Canada and the high Rockies, this little bird migrates all across the U.S., where its tabby stripes and yellow wingtips make it a favorite among birders.
+ The 7 Best Places to Bird in Winter
photo credit:
Kjersti Vick / Cook County
photo credit:
Ryan Bonneau
Move aside, backcountry skiing. This rad new take on winter fun is here to change the game.
Why “Adventure Sledding” Raises the Bar on Winter Fun
As the name suggests, adventure sledding involves hiking up long, snow-covered trails with a sled strapped to your pack. At the top, you detach your steed, transition to a seated position, holler something heroic like “For Sparta!” or “Geronimo!” and then rocket downhill back to your starting point. Think of it like regular sledding, but for grownups.
Adventure sledding gives you access to all the best bits of winter: gorgeous scenery, backcountry solitude, and the opportunity to slide down snowy slopes at ridiculous speeds. But unlike skiing or snowshoeing, you never have to deal with expensive gear, long lift lines, or not being able to find friends to do stuff with you. Plus, the hiking bit is great exercise—as is extracting your friends from snowdrifts post-wipeout.
And the best part of adventure sledding? It’s a perfect antidote to the seriousness that plagues all too many winter sports. As an adventure sledder, you’ll never have to worry about taking yourself too seriously. Especially if do it in costume.
Aside from a sense of humor, you’ll want to consider packing some traction devices to help on the hike. And stick to safe backcountry travel principles, from warming strategies (fewer layers on high-output ascents; more insulation for the freewheeling descent) to avalanche precautions and helmet use as you level up the exposure and speed.
Hot cocoa may be a longstanding winter tradition, but that doesn’t mean it can’t be improved upon. Next time you’re cozied up next to a fire, pour yourself a mug of this recipe: an ultra-rich, ultra-satisfying twist on a classic.
The Best Hot Chocolate Recipe Ever
Ingredients:
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 cups whole milk
4 ounces 60% to 70% dark chocolate chips
½ teaspoon vanilla extract
1 tablespoon sugar (optional)
Whipped cream and/or chocolate shavings (optional)
Directions:
1. Melt butter in a separate saucepan over low heat.
2. When butter is melted, add milk. Stir until it reaches a simmer.
3. Just before the milk begins to scald, add chocolate chips. Stir until the chocolate is melted and fully incorporated.
4. Whisk in vanilla (and sugar, if you prefer). Keep the mixture at a simmer.
5. When all ingredients are fully blended, remove from heat, pour into mugs, and top with whipped cream and chocolate shavings. Serve immediately.
Cold-water immersion therapy is booming in popularity. Does it live up to the hype?
The Health Benefits of Polar Plunging
Thanks to oft-cited feelings of euphoria, cold plunging has become one of the most popular wellness fads in modern history. Athletes and celebrities alike have touted the benefits of cold-water immersion. Health junkies claim it invigorates your senses, boosts your immune system, and improves memory and focus. Business gurus have called cold-water immersion a productivity hack, while other proponents claim it can cure mental health issues.
What’s the truth? Cold-water therapy research has been limited, but a few small studies indicate both immunological and mental health benefits. One notable experiment found improved mood and energy levels in a group of regular cold-water swimmers in Finland. Another study found higher levels of antioxidants in the blood of a group of Polish swimmers after a season of cold-water exposure. Anecdotal evidence suggests that cold-water swimming could also help ease symptoms of depression.
Right now, the science isn’t clear why. The burst of adrenaline you get from plunging into fight-or-flight mode could be producing the increased energy levels. It’s also true that completing any challenge—including a cold dip—helps boost self-confidence, which in turn can improve mood. Regardless of the reasons, thousands of people have turned to polar plunging as both a wellness pursuit and a way to find joy amid the dark of winter. And the only way to discover what all the fuss is about is to try it for yourself.
Note: Some doctors may advise against polar plunging if you have a preexisting heart condition or are taking certain medications. Whenever you take a cold dip, be sure to bring a partner, start slow, and have a warm-up strategy close at hand.
Unleash your inner child (and demolish your opponents) with these tips
You’re Never Too Old for a Snowball Fight—Here’s Why and How to Win
Wear the right gear. The key to mounting a strong offensive: don’t be afraid to get a little wet. Armor up in sturdy boots, a shell jacket, rain or snow pants, and waterproof gloves. Properly dressed, you’re guaranteed to stay in the game for longer.
Choose your team carefully. You may be tempted to pick your kid or significant other for your team. But if they have a weak throwing arm, reconsider. All’s fair in love and war.
Build your defenses. Choose the higher ground and build a high wall—at least three to four feet high—to deflect enemy fire.
Take time to strategize. If your team is big enough, plan a two-part offensive. Use a pincer movement to surround your enemy along both flanks, or send out a first-wave attack to draw them out.
Keep it light. Yes, this is war. But it’s also supposed to be fun. Pick a team name, use code names, and don’t be afraid to go all out with the theatrics when you get hit. The more over the top, the better.
Remember the last time you got into a snowball fight? If not, that’s a shame; goofing off outdoors is insanely good for you at any age. Outdoor play can help stimulate creativity, bring you into the present moment, and add laughs (a powerful stress reliever). Most importantly, lobbing snow at each other is just stupid good fun—even more so when you’re winning. Here’s how to throw your way to victory.
Research shows that we’re wired to seek out experiences of awe.
Why It’s Worth Chasing the Northern Lights, according to Science
Every winter, people across the globe flock north to see the aurora borealis. The rippling lights have captivated humans for centuries, inspiring legends, books, music and art. But why exactly? According to recent research, it could have to do with how our brains react to awe.
When we witness something that blows our minds, the experience affects us on a chemical level. Studies have found the resulting biochemical cascade may reduce inflammation and improve immune function in the body. But it may also trigger a near-psychedelic experience.
According to awe researcher Dacher Keltner, mind-bending experiences can create a feeling of profound connection between people and the world around us. Awe can also open up new neural pathways—creating a small window to potentially rewire your thought patterns or reframe your priorities. Scientists who have studied this experience believe that getting your mind blown by the northern lights, an eclipse, or other natural phenomena could provide a burst of clarity. That can be useful in making big life decisions or even just grounding yourself in gratitude for what you already have.
So, next time you feel a pull to see the northern lights or any other awe-inspiring natural phenomenon, follow it. It could just change your life.
Why this fast-growing sport is finally getting the love it deserves
5 Reasons to Try Cross-Country Skiing This Winter
1. It’s incredible exercise, often touted as the best cardio workout on the planet. Elite cross-country skiers burn as many as 30 calories per minute, and amateur skiers burn close to 500 calories per hour on average.
2. There are styles for all levels. Classic-style skiing is easy to pick up, making it ideal for beginners. More seasoned skiers may want to try skate skiing, an intense workout that requires coordinated full-body movements.
3. It’s more social than alpine skiing. Downhill skiing consumes a lot of time either skiing separately from your partners or waiting for them at the bottom of each run. Cross-country skiing allows you to chat and joke with your crew the whole time.
4. Avalanches aren’t a concern. Cross-country skiing typically takes place on groomed trails in forested terrain or within ski area boundaries—meaning little avalanche risk and a lower barrier to entry.
5. More winter bliss. There’s no better feeling than gliding through a glade, the still air punctuated only by the sound of swishing skis. This efficient and low-impact way to explore snowy landscapes will help you squeeze more joy out of winter.
When the pandemic happened, thousands of Americans discovered that cross-country skiing didn’t match common perceptions as a quaint hobby for old-timers or an ’80s fad for endurance nerds in full Lycra bodysuits. The result has been a popularity boom for a fast-growing sport characterized by lightweight gear and modern techniques. It’s safer and requires less equipment than backcountry skiing, more affordable than resort skiing, and faster and more skill-oriented than snowshoeing. In a nutshell: it’s the best of all worlds and one of the greatest ways to experience winter. Here’s why.
Camping
+ WARMTH-BOOSTER TIP
“In a winter camp, I’m a big sucker for the "hot water bottle in the sleeping bag" trick. And when my feet get cold, I’ll stuff the Arch Rock jacket down there for extra warmth.”
—Rachel Laux
On the Move
+ WARMTH-BOOSTER TIP
“On cold days, make sure your gear prep is dialed before arriving at the trailhead so you can start hiking immediately. You’ll warm up quickly, rather than get cold standing around fiddling with stuff.”
—Rachel Laux
Snacks and Fueling
+ WARMTH-BOOSTER TIP
“I always bring sugary snacks in addition to “healthy” energy bars. They give me a little boost in cold temps by quickly increasing blood sugar. I like Welch's fruit snacks and Haribo gummies. And of course a big bottle of water.” —Drew Stoll
Stay Positive
+ WARMTH-BOOSTER TIP
“Positive energy helps you keep moving, and moving helps keep you warm. Feed the spirit of camaraderie. Stay a little kid out there, and the stoke will keep you going through long days.”
—Drew Stoll
Did You Know?
Born more than a decade ago, Columbia’s Omni-Heat™ technology was inspired by NASA space blankets.
Did You Know?
Because humans emit radiant heat in the form of infrared radiation, a metal-infused liner amplifies that heat to keep you warm.
Did You Know?
Omni-Heat Infinity has thousands of tiny gold dots reflecting and retaining heat, while the spaces in between the discontinuous dot pattern add breathability.
For a more adventurous option, sled nearby Andesite Peak. Start at the snowmobile parking area off Castle Peak Road. At the trail’s first fork, turn left (west) to follow the relatively mellow snowmobiling trail, or go straight to take the skier’s trail north (avalanche savvy required). After about a mile, you’ll see open, sleddable slopes on the shoulders of Andesite Peak.
Want to try your hand at adventure sledding? Pack snowshoes and head directly south from the winter play area. You’ll cross a drainage, then climb about 200 feet up the hill on the other side. Point your sled north or east to descend through gentle glades.
Level Up ^
Grab your sled plus a pair of snowshoes and head to Telemark Bowl or Shivers Ridge up on Teton Pass. You’ll reach the top of each run after a short hike. Enjoy the ride, then hike back up toward the road for seconds.
Level Up ^
For a more backcountry experience, head to Trout Lake, just south of town. The lake's north and east sides play host to a number of mellow, open slopes. You’ll also find wild but accessible hills just west of the Black Bear Pass Trailhead off the Million Dollar Highway.
Level Up ^
Head to the Tanawha Trail parking area, off Holloway Mountain Road. Go either direction on the trail to access open, rolling meadows. (Eastbound leads to a slightly longer hill after about a mile of forested trail.)
Level Up ^
Next Question
— Winter is an excellent time to experience wildlife: fewer people, more foraging at low elevations, easier visibility. Take the right precautions and take advantage of the best viewing possibilities.
Hint: It involves butter.
Columbia has been creating innovative apparel, footwear, accessories and equipment for outdoor enthusiasts since 1938. Columbia has become a leading global brand by channeling the company’s passion for the outdoors and innovative spirit into technologies and performance products. To learn more, please visit www.columbia.com.
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+ 5 Special Species to Spot This Winter
Go Deeper into the World of Adventure Sledding
Snow Bunting:
This bright-eyed Canadian bird sports dark legs, an amber beak, and a characteristic snowy underbelly. It overwinters in the northern U.S., where it becomes a frequent patron among backyard bird feeders.
Tundra Swan:
The mighty tundra swan migrates south during the winter, often coming to rest in wetlands and ponds both in the Pacific Northwest, and along the eastern coast from the Delaware to North Carolina.
Red-Breasted Nuthatch: Known for its mask-like eye stripes, this nuthatch lives in Canada and the northern U.S. year-round. But in winter, it wanders as far south as Florida in search of more hospitable temperatures. t a favorite among birders.
Bohemian Waxwing:
Spot this painted beauty throughout the Northwest and the Northern Rockies during the winter months. It’s larger than the more common cedar waxwing, but just as striking.
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Level Up^
Level Up^
Level Up^
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What to Wear
Jackets Tested IN Colorado and Alaska
Jackets Tested IN Colorado and Alaska
Toyota U.S. Grand Prix
Mammoth Mountain
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