When people think of snow sports, they often think of skiing. However, there are lots of fun activities for thrillseekers to try in the snow beyond this. If you’re a seasoned skier looking for something different or simply don’t fancy skiing, here are seven cool alternatives. You could also check out this article for info.
Snowboarding
When it comes to carving up the slopes, snowboarding is a popular alternative to skiing. While skiing relies on leg strength, snowboarding relies more on core strength. Many people say that it’s easier to learn than skiing, but harder to master. You can hire or buy a snowboard at pretty much any snow resort.
Ice skating
Technically more of an ice sport than a snow sport, ice skating is still very much a sport best enjoyed in winter when there are more outdoor options available. While it uses some of the same technique, ice skating is less physically strenuous than skiing, with a lot more focus on balance. Most ice rinks allow you to hire skates.
Snowshoeing
Snowshoeing is pretty much hiking on the snow. It’s very much a test of endurance and is sometimes combined with cross-country skiing. On top of getting yourself a pair of snowshoes, it’s worth investing in the right hiking equipment. This includes a hiking backpack and possibly one of these hydration packs listed at besthydrationpack.org. Many ski resorts will have snowshoe equipment available, but you’ll have to hunt a little harder to find it.
Tobogganing
This simple sledding sport is often enjoyed by kids – but really there’s no age limit on it. You can go tobogganing anywhere, although some snow resorts have their own purpose-built toboggan runs. More high-speed and dangerous options include the luge, the skeleton and the bobsleigh.
Dog sledding
Dog sledding is a popular snow sport practiced across the world that involves being pulled by dogs on a sled. Dog sledding doesn’t involve much physical exertion on your part – it’s more a case of learning how to control the dogs. You can try out dog sledding in many places around the world as listed here at backpackertravel.org – in such cases, you’ll usually journey around a specific route which the dogs are familiar with, so you won’t have to do much navigating or commanding. Those that want to seriously get into dog sledding, may want to go on a course.
Snowmobiling
Most snow resorts offer the opportunity to try snowmobiling. This is a fun and fast-paced way of getting around that doesn’t require too much training. You can hire a snowmobile out to drive yourself or you can ride on the back with a professional snowmobile driver.
Ski biking
A ski bike is pretty much a bike on skis. This is one of the more unusual snow sports that you can try – while most ski resorts will have the opportunity to try it out, you’ll have to look around a little harder to find hire shops or instructors. Compared to skiing or snowboarding, it generally isn’t as difficult, although it can be more hazardous.