Oct 28, 2024
6 min. read
Family fun can be had in your own backyard (or close to it) and now is the time to explore what’s out there. Here are some ideas to kick off the excitement:
Admire winter nature.
Nothing could be prettier than going for a walk and admiring the snow-laced trees after a snowfall. It’s a truly magical sight and something the whole family can participate in. Remember to wear shoes or boots with good treads to avoid slipping on any ice you may encounter.
Lace up your skates.
A quintessentially Canadian pastime and sport, Canadians still spend countless hours skating on backyard rinks, frozen lakes and rivers across the country. While winter temperatures in Manitoba are usually ripe for hard, thick ice that is safe for skaters, our climate is changing, and it’s always necessary to test the ice before lacing up for pond or river skating. Keep these ice safety tips in mind.
Skating trails have also become more and more popular over the past several years. Taking in beautiful scenery while getting some exercise makes a great combination. Popular skating trails include the Red River trail at the Forks, a classic for Winnipeggers, and FortWhyte Alive where you can get a taste of nature while you skate on the park’s rink or their 1.5 km looping trail. Alternatively, consider driving out to Hecla, where you can skate at the Hecla Lakeview Resorts‘ rink.
Take a road trip to ski country.
Whiz down the slopes or whoosh down the hill in a tube. Manitoba has plenty of great ski resorts, including Springhill Winter Park in Springfield, or Holiday Mountain, which has been in operation for over 60 years. If cross country is more your style, explore the various clubs throughout Manitoba.
Winter road trip safety.
Wherever you decide to venture, make sure your vehicle is in tip-top shape. When temperatures drop, being stranded by the side of the road is more than an inconvenience—it’s a safety issue. Make sure you’ve transitioned to your winter tires and had your battery tested ahead of the winter season. It’s also a good idea to stock up your car in advance of the winter season with safety items like a roadside kit, blankets and water so you are ready to deal with any challenges your family may face.
Get started planning your joyful winter activities today.