Holidays offer great opportunities for families to spend time together outdoors. Here are some of our favorite ways to opt outside for a holiday adventure. We think these traditions are all worthy of adopting for the lasting memories they’ll create.
Stay in a Yurt (hut, cabin, etc.)
Book a place you’ve never stayed before. Whether your shelter of choice requires a long human-powered approach or you simply park the car at the doorstep, going off the grid for a few days is the perfect way to escape modern distractions and have a peaceful holiday experience.
Dinner in the yurt. Food stores well in cold weather. Preparing meals at home will make life easier when you don’t have a full kitchen.
Ski-in hut. Book early: the best dates often fill up early.
Don’t forget the holiday supplies! I wonder what’s in that ski-shaped package?
Hit the Beach
If you think a winter holiday at the beach sounds unorthodox (I did), you should try it. Take a coastal forest hike, walk the beach at sunset, or just watch the storms roll in. Winter is a special time to experience the coast.
Surf-casting on Christmas Eve. Winter sunsets on the Pacific can be epic, so plan accordingly.
Worth the hike. Take advantage of weather breaks to admire the scenery and get some exercise.
Soak Up Some Sun
Head to the desert for crisp air, sunshine and festive colors. The desert makes an especially enjoyable holiday destination for families who prefer hiking, climbing or biking over snowier activities.
Waiting for the sun. There’s often no reason to get an early start this time of year, so slow down and enjoy leisurely mornings.
A busy campground. The winter holidays are high season in some locations. Do a little research so you know what to expect.
Family ascent. Get out and enjoy the sun!
Play in the Snow
If it’s hard not to dream of snowy places during the holiday season, go all in. Constructing a snow cave or igloo and camping out in it for a night or two is sure to make some lasting memories.
Greeting the first sunrise of the year from a snow cave. If there’s any chance of sun, orient your camp to catch its first rays.
Allow plenty of time to construct a shelter, expect to get wet, and bring extra clothes.
Have any holiday outdoor traditions? We want to hear them. Share in the comments below.