To me, the winter time is romantic, enchanting, and brings out my playful inner child. It also — at times — can be isolating and extreme. I quickly learned the importance of layering, bringing a hat and gloves everywhere, how to shovel the driveway (and make it fun!) and how to drive in icy conditions. What I also learned was to rethink how dates look in the deep winter. Here are some outdoor winter date ideas you can do with your partner during the cold months.
Winter Hiking
Hiking in winter is like hiking in any other season, except you will need to know the right way to layer your gear for protection and warmth. You must be aware of the ever-changing conditions and risks of hypothermia. You will likely want to have microspikes for extra traction on ice and snow. Don’t forget to stay hydrated, especially in the cooler months, and make sure you pack for hiking safety. Other than that, choose a trail that is within reason for both of your shared abilities, check the updated weather conditions, and you are ready to go!
Winter Camping
There is nothing like a night spent under the stars. It is one of my favorite ways to make memories with the person I love. The difference between camping in warmer months and camping in winter is that you will likely be setting up your camp on snow. Just like the summer months, you will need the essentials of a sturdy and reliable tent (4 season tent preferred for winter), your sleeping bag (20º or warmer), and you’ll each need your own full-length sleeping mat for additional warmth and comfort.
Warm food is more than a comfort item during winter camping and for this, you’ll need a Jetboil or propane stove alternative. Along with these essential items, staying dry with insulating layers is imperative, as is staying hydrated for the duration of your camping experience.
To get you started, we also have your essential overnight camping list.
Spend a Night in a Log Cabin
We’ve all heard the benefits of unplugging from a busy, modern world and spending quality time in nature. If camping isn’t your thing, then why not find the perfect log cabin to spend a frigid winter’s evening? You can cozy up by the warmth of a crackling fire, hot cocoa, some music softly playing in the background. It is your real-life movie scene. Don’t forget to pack your food, water, reading book, and perhaps a deck of cards or a board game.
Snowshoeing
Snowshoeing is a great way to get away from the crowds in winter and reach different destinations. Plus, you will be happy to know it is one of the most affordable winter activities. If you are new to snowshoeing, you can rent gear, find a local snow park, and hit the groomed trails with your loved one.
If snowshoeing is a regular outdoor activity and you are both experienced in avalanche safety, why not find a new trail and hit the backcountry together?
Skiing or Snowboarding
If you haven’t tried skiing and snowboarding before, a great winter date idea is to sign up for lessons. You could find a special at your local slopes and learn a new winter activity together. You’ll be hitting the groomed runs together in no time! If you are both experienced skiers or snowboarders, choose a run that is within your comfortability and embrace the opportunity to work on your techniques, skills and tricks together.
Before you go, make sure to pick up a helmet and googles.
Cross-Country Skiing
If hitting the slopes together isn’t your thing, perhaps taking in the sights together whilst cross-country skiing is your ideal date day. Grab your date, rent some equipment and head to the local snow park for a day of invigorating activity together. This can be a physically strenuous activity, so be sure to layer appropriately and stay hydrated!
Snowmobiling
Looking for an exhilarating adventure? The good thing about snowmobiling is it doesn’t require any prior experience. Find a company that will take you out on a guided customized snowmobiling tour. Don’t worry — once you hit the tracks you won’t feel like you are in a group setting. There is plenty of time to reach new heights and enjoy the views with your loved one. A memorable day out together is guaranteed.
Ice Skating
Arguably, this is the most classic winter holiday experience to share with your loved one. It’s a wonderful date idea, even if it doesn’t snow where you live. Find a local indoor or outdoor rink and get those good endorphins flowing, creating quintessential, magic winter memories together.
Sunnyscope also has you covered if you are looking to buy your own ice skates.
Tobogganing/Sledding
Sledding is fun for adults too when you embrace your inner-child together! This is an appealing last-minute date idea that doesn’t require venturing too far from your home. Grab a sled, your spouses hand, and find a hill. It’s fun, free, and a no-experience-required date idea!
Note: Many local ski slopes also offer sledding courses with inner tube rentals.
Winter Picnics
With a little more planning, a winter picnic is an idyllic activity to share with your significant other. Think hearty meal options, a thermos of hot cacao, robust dips and snacks suitable for cooler temperatures. Don’t forget something warm and waterproof to sit on.
Visit a Winter Festival
Fire, lights and, ice — a winter festival might just be your next cute date night idea. Join in your local community winter event and take your beloved to a winter festival to celebrate the season with good local food, conversations around the fire pit, and entertainment.
Watch the Sunrise or Sunset
This is my favorite way to begin and end a day! There is extra effort required to watch a new day unfold, and who better to do that with than the one you love? If getting up for sunrise isn’t your thing, the good news is there is always sunset! The colors and calmness shared at the beginning or end of the day is romantic. Watching as the light of a rising or fading sun transforms the landscape before you is captivating.
Make a Snow Angel and Build a Snowman
Again, why leave all the fun to the kids? Building a snowman or making a snow angel is a fun way to enjoy some spontaneous time together and can easily be done before dinner, after a busy day. You don’t need a lot of time — you just need some youthful spirit and snow on the ground!
A Warm Meal at a Restaurant While the Snow Falls
This is one of my personal idyllic ways to finish off date day. Find a local spot with hearty, warm food and a big window. Grab your lover and spend the evening talking about your adventurous day over your favorite meal, whilst the snow falls outside. A simple dinner spent connecting with your partner can be just as magical and memorable as any outdoor activity.
Visit a Day Spa
After all your outdoor adventuring, it might be a nice idea to treat each other to a relaxing day spa session. Whether it’s to restore tired muscles from all the winter sport activities or simply to relax. Treat yourselves to a couples massage or simply sip on some herbal tea and watch the world go by.
A Final Reminder
Fun is what you make of it. The focus is always quality time spent together and there is no need to hibernate just because it’s winter, as long as you can get outside safely and are well-equipped. Your safety is your responsibility and it is paramount to ensure you have the requirements and techniques before engaging in any outdoor activities.
Happy adventures, lovers!
Article written by Melissa Findley
