ITINERARY: 5 snow day outdoor winter activities for families

When the forecast promises a big pile of snow, you could hide indoors or get the whole family outside for fun. Outdoor winter activities for families can be a delightful way to enjoy the season and often make for lasting memories. 

Start your day with a winter hike, snowshoe outing, or cross-country ski

The morning sun sparkling on fresh snow is one of the best aspects of winter activities in Alberta. Cochrane’s ample trail network and parks can be just as appealing for winter hiking and offer great cross-country skiing or snowshoeing opportunities. 

Need a delicious hot beverage to get started? Grab a tea on the way from Still Water Tea to try one of their seasonal blends.

The best part? These two sports are great exercise but can be done at whatever pace suits your family best. You can look up cross-country skiing trails in Cochrane or pack up your snowshoes for an appealing spot in Cochrane’s ample trail network and green spaces.   Did you know that the Cochrane Public Library rents winter equipment like snowshoes, trekking poles and cleats for the whole family?

Don’t forget a hearty lunch to warm everyone from the inside out!

A midday stop at Cochrane Coffee Traders could be just the ticket to be sure everyone is properly fueled for snowy adventures. Winter activities in Alberta are sure to burn off calories, so don’t let anyone go hungry.

With a cozy fireplace to take the chill off and a menu full of wholesome sandwiches, wraps, soups, and salads, there’s something for everyone in the family. (Prefer vegetarian, organic, or gluten-free? They’ve got you covered).

Ready to amp up the fun for the afternoon

While there is always plenty to do outdoors, snow in Cochrane, Alberta, only adds to the fun. The town has many beautiful spots the whole family can enjoy. 

Piling sleds into your vehicle and heading to the nearest sledding hill is a favourite family activity for a reason. You don’t need to know any special techniques, just dress warm and get silly! Head to the hill at Bow Ridge field and race to the bottom!

Skating takes more skill than sledding but is easy to learn and do at your own pace. And the thrills come easily once you get the hang of it. Grab your skates and head to Mitford Pond in Mitford Park for an afternoon on the ice.

3 tips for choosing outdoor winter activities for families

Keep in mind that a day spent outdoors in winter is best done with a bit of prep and cooperation.

Here are a few reminders to make sure your snow day is fun for everyone:

1. Ask for ideas! Some outdoor winter activities for families may suit your family better than others. Your family may surprise you with what they want to try.
   
2. Don’t skip the warm-up stops for hot beverages and snacks. (Sometimes, these special treats are how you’ll coax your more indoorsy family members outside).
   
3. Keep the focus on fun, not freezing, by ensuring everyone is dressed for the weather. Missing something?  Lammles has you covered with layers for mom, dad and the kids!

With a bit of planning, your fun day of snow in Cochrane, Alberta, will be something everyone wants to do again.

There’s no end to the possibilities for outdoor winter activities for families in Cochrane. Want more ideas? Download the Explore Cochrane app.