Opinion: How to Enjoy the Outdoors Even in Cold Weather
Growing up in Manitoba, Canada, I learned early on to appreciate the many unique aspects of the winter season. Whenever I hear the first call for snow—even just a light dusting—I’m filled with excitement and start making plans to get outside and adventure. Autumn gear gets packed away and replaced with a cozy arsenal of knit and down-filled layers. Sleds, skates and other winter equipment are pulled out of storage and made ready for action.
Maintaining enthusiasm isn’t easy for everyone once the temperatures really dip. Pretty soon, many are ready to hibernate, with few positive feelings about the season. When I ask others how they feel about winter, I usually hear two camps: either “I love it—hockey season is here!” or “I can’t stand it—our winters are too long.”
Enjoying winter ultimately comes down to your own mindset. In this article, I’ll share my simple, proven ways to face the freeze with positivity, as well as why it’s worthwhile to keep exploring year-round—even in the cold.
Change Your Mindset
Anything worthwhile takes time and effort. When we choose to put ourselves out there—whether travelling in our own backyard or abroad—it can be daunting. But nothing ventured, nothing gained. We choose to explore because these experiences are invaluable. We learn so much about ourselves and the world we live in, and these lessons show us what is individually worthy of our time.
When it comes to winter, I always appreciate those who embrace it with a hearty “Yes!”—especially as others complain about the temperatures. Yes, it is cold, but will a negative view help you get through it? As a smart saying goes, “If you choose not to find joy in the snow, you will have less joy in your life but still the same amount of snow.” I’m not personally sure who said that, but it could’ve been a Canadian.
Don’t get me wrong: as a Manitoban, I understand why winter’s cold, long months can be hard to navigate. I may have every intention of going for a walk, skate or other adventure, but throw in –30 C with a windchill and those plans vanish instantly. If you’ve ever felt the inside of your nose instantly freeze the second you step outside, you know exactly what a prairie winter feels like. Still, all it takes is a conscious effort—a little kick in the pants—to get out there. With a goal in mind and an attitude adjustment, we can reap the fruits of our labour. So where do we start?
It begins with acceptance—meeting the season as it is rather than wishing it away. Avoiding winter makes it feel endless; participating in it makes it feel purposeful. And participation doesn’t have to be extreme. Winter offers something we rarely acknowledge: variety. Fresh blankets of snow can sparkle differently depending on the light, the texture shifts from soft powder to a crisp underfoot and familiar landscapes take on a new character after each snowfall. It gives us a completely different set of routines, sports and surroundings to enjoy.
Many activities Canadians love—skating, skiing, snowshoeing—originated as practical ways to travel over snow and ice before becoming recreational staples in northern countries like Norway, Sweden, Finland and the Netherlands, as well as here at home. We can follow the example of winter-goers before us and use the elements to our advantage.
Start Small: Micro-Adventures Matter
Changing your relationship with winter doesn’t require full-day excursions. Consistency is more powerful than intensity. Start by slotting short, manageable outings into your week. Here are a few I’ve tried:
- A 10-minute walk after fresh snowfall
- A couple loops around the neighbourhood skating rink
- Exploring a new trail once a week
- Watching a sunrise on a cold morning with a thermos of something warm
When time allows, I often head out for winter walks. I’m fortunate to live near a forested trail that runs alongside the Seine River, and it’s become one of my favourite ways to decompress after work. With the early nightfall, I often find myself traversing the paths after dark. There’s nothing like it—especially when the sky takes on that mauve glow at dusk. When I’m out with my dog and the sunset starts to colour the sky, it feels peaceful in a way daytime can’t quite replicate. Little things like that help you build an appreciation for it.
Scouting out spots in advance—and getting others to join you, whether it’s a pup, partner or group of friends—makes the outing even better. Look for local hills for sledding, outdoor rinks, river trails, and make it happen. Having a novel activity queued up gives the bonus boost of anticipating something fun. You can work your way up to skiing, snowboarding, fat biking or other more challenging activities (after proper instruction and with appropriate gear). Take advantage of the landscape where you live—in Alberta, you have easy access to the mountains; in Ontario, the provincial parks are drool-worthy. Tourists pay good money to see the natural beauty where you happen to reside.
The more you get out there, the better you feel. Sure, it’s easier to stay home—but where’s the fun in that? Say yes to the opportunities winter offers. Every time you push past that initial inertia, you’ll be glad you did.
Preparation Is Half the Battle
One of the biggest misconceptions is that winter is miserable because it’s cold. In reality, winter feels miserable when you’re underprepared. Remember: “There’s no such thing as bad weather, only unsuitable clothing,” according Alfred Wainwright, a British hiker and author.
Layering properly matters. Your coat should be built for the elements, with insulation that traps and holds heat. A few basics make an enormous difference:
- Base layer: merino wool or synthetic blends that keep you dry
- Mid-layer: fleece or insulated jacket
- Outer layer: windproof and waterproof shell + down-filled parka
- Footwear: Insulated boots with good tread
- Accessories: windproof mitts, toque, neck warmer
- Optional: ice cleats, hand warmers, ski goggles on windy days
There are certain brands I trust when gearing up: Canda Goose, Columbia, The North Face, Nobis, Kanuk and Kamik. Some are more affordable than others, especially when it comes to parkas. Shopping off-season or second-hand often gets you the best value.
Try Mark’s, Canadian Tire, Costco or online retailers like Amazon for deals.
It does pay to properly get suited and booted with all the necessities (activity specific too)—you’ll be able to focus on the experience, not the discomfort.
Small beginnings can lead to the biggest wins in winter. Choose one activity to work toward. Dress for it, and allow yourself to rediscover the joys of snow days. Winter doesn’t have to be survived. With the right approach, it can be celebrated.
