Ten ways to have outdoor fun this winter

We are getting a lot of snow this winter. I havent looked at any statistics, but it seems like we are shoveling a lot more than usual. The weather here, as in the rest of the country, has been nutty.

It is minus 27 degrees one day, and 40 above a couple days later. Our bodies can hardly adjust. Scientists tell us we can expect more extreme weather events with global warming. Our chickens are not thrilled with that prospect. Nor are polar bears.

We are luckier than chickens and polar bears because we know how to make the most of this crazy winter by getting out and playing in the snow, ice, frigid temperatures, and balmy days. I wrote about cross-country skiing, wildlife sanctuaries, candy stores, and campfire programs in Red Lodge; ice-skating, sledding, cross-country skiing, and other winter fun in West Yellowstone; and date days with the kids chilling at the mall and skiing in Yellowstone.

Here are 10 more fun winter activities for kids (and the adults who love them).

Skim Across the Ice

We have two flooded park areas to skate in, plus a pond (if it’s cold enough), in town. Ice skating is a no-brainer.

Build a Snow Fort

We finally have enough snow to build a snow fort! Plus, the kids shovel the patio to make their pile bigger. Win-win.

Slide Down a Hill

No one ever says “no” to sledding.

Take a Walk

When it’s 15 below zero, we bundle up and walk downtown for hot cocoa.

Make Ice Decorations

Squirt food coloring into a balloon, fill with water, and leave outside. A few hours later you can pull the balloon off and decorate your front porch.