Sledding is very popular amongst children, especially on snow days. Most areas have sledding hills within the city or county park system or local ski resorts. Most sledding in the Midwestern United States is done in large back yards or even on snow piles that kids make themselves.
Skiing is a versatile winter activity that can be as involved as you want it to be. Look for local areas groom multi-purpose trails for cross country skiing without the cost or fanfare associated with going all out at a ski resort. Adrenalin junkies adore downhill skiing. Most ski resorts offer equipment rental, warm lobbies with refreshments, ski instruction, ski chair lifts up the hills or rope pulls. Snowboarding has been growing in popularity within the downhill skiing enthusiast community.
Ice skating is a family favorite. If there are no indoor or outdoor skating rinks in your area, be sure to check for proper ice thickness before you skate. Small ponds are best for ice skating as they tend to be shallow and freeze quickly and hard and they are generally not too difficult to find. Ice hockey is a popular sport on skating rinks.
Ice fishing can produce some of the best catches out of local lakes. Some people go all out with their fishing shelters and shanties that provide heat, comfortable chairs and even TVs and radios.
Snow fort building and snow ball throwing aren’t just for kids; many adults partake in the engineering and building of forts to defend as well as recruit troops.
