Winter is, for many, a period of hibernation. The cooler weather and quieter environments keep many inside their homes, which, for outdoor enthusiasts, can be a difficult period. While some will resign themselves to staying indoors, there are a great number who persist and have found activities that can continue to be enjoyed everything through the depths of winter.
If you’re willing to overcome the chill and are eager to keep yourself surrounded by nature throughout the year, then we have some of the best activities for you. Some require the colder weather to be effective while others are activities that, with a little equipment or a change in approach, can be enjoyed all year round.
Wild Swimming
Enthusiasts would argue that wild swimming during the winter actually becomes cold water swimming. Nonetheless, and regardless of its name, wild swimming has become a remarkably popular endeavour across Australia and the winter sees groups and individuals take to lakes and beaches as they would do during the summer.
There are differences, of course. Time spent in the water is reduced and more equipment is recommended, such as thermal flasks and changing robes. But, while some will certainly want to wear their thickets wetsuit, some will choose to embrace the cold fully, wearing only their swimsuit, likely seeking to embrace the health benefits associated with cold water swimming.
Snowboarding
There are a number of great locations across Australia (and New Zealand) that make for superb snowboarding experiences. While not everyone will have the equipment they need, most resorts and clubs will have boards and gear to rent, making it easy for individuals to get out and hit the slopes whenever they feel like it.
Paddleboarding
More so than swimming and surfing during winter, paddleboarding tends to be preferred because it doesn’t necessitate getting into the water. This allows individuals to enjoy their favourite waterscapes without having to overcome any drastic temperature changes and without the usual crowds that might be found during the summer season.
The cold weather can still give individuals are chill, however, even if they don’t plunge into the water, which is why many bring along wetsuits and changing robes, which make keeping warm easy, even on the coldest of days.
Hiking
With the right clothing and a trusty insulated bottle, hiking is an outdoor activity that can be enjoyed in the winter, offering the opportunity for individuals to enjoy their favourite landscapes in totally different ways and even underneath snow. It is important, however, to ensure that when heading out, even on familiar trails, you prepare for the weather. Rainfall, snowfall, and ice can all make for drastically different environments, creating new traversal considerations.
Husky Sledding
If you really want to embrace the culture and excitement of the winter, then you might want to consider husky sledding. This thrilling experience can be enjoyed across the southern coast. Not only are there a number of husky retreats that offer the opportunity to racing along the landscape with your own team of dogs but there are even local and international competitions too!
