Winter activities: how to kick it in the cold this season
Winter can be hard. Temperatures are glacial. Seasonal depression kicks in, leaving students feeling burnt out and unmotivated. Finding ways to combat the slump and embrace the winter season is key. While it can be incessantly dark and frigid, it can be beautiful too. What better place to experience fun winter weather than in Utah, home of the greatest snow on earth? Here are suggestions for outdoor winter activities to help beat the winter blues.
Sledding is a classic. A night spent with friends hurtling down Old Main Hill is a surefire way to feel better amid stress. A sled isn’t even necessary — trash can or storage bin lids are just as effective and easy to obtain. Just don’t forget to bundle up. Speaking from personal experience, layers are absolutely necessary.
In the dreary winter months, the Quad is largely empty. A quick and fun break from studying could simply be making snowmen and snow angels for students to admire on their way to and from class. Or, try one in your front yard. Not only does an artfully-crafted snowman liven up the neighborhoods, creating one with your friends or roommates is undoubtedly a memory you’ll treasure.
Other than a showcase for snowmen, the Quad is the perfect snowball fight arena. What better way to ease the tension than with a snowball to the face?
If you’re looking for something to do off campus or on a weekend, Utah is prime winter sports territory. Beaver Mountain Ski Resort in Garden City is a great place to master skiing and snowboarding. Cherry Peak Ski Resort in Richmond is another option as well. For beginners or those without gear, check out the rental options from the Aggie Recreation Center and Outdoor Programs right here on campus.
The George S. Eccles Ice Center provides public ice skating sessions for when you feel like shredding indoors rather than down the mountain. Skates can be rented upon arrival, and it’s a great way to be active, whether you’re an experienced skater or not.
The ice castles in Midway are a fun and unique activity. It’s a bit of a drive, but the ice creations include slides, caves and tunnels and are a winter must-see.
Whether you’re shredding the mountain or peacefully driving through the lit-up neighborhoods, there are many options for enjoying the winter season, so get out there!
For more information on local skiing and snowboarding, go to skicpr.com/ or skithebeav.com/. For more information on renting gear, go to https://www.usu.edu/campusrec/outdoor/op-shop-.