Winter has arrived, temperatures are freezing, and the Christmas holidays invite young and old alike to spend some time with family in the great outdoors, enjoying some dynamic and fun activities.
The mountains are the ideal place to unplug and fully enjoy a few days off, especially when a pristine white blanket covers the peaks, creating a magical atmosphere. It is a paradise for skiers, but that's not all: you can spend fantastic days on the snow enjoying many other activities too. Which ones?
4 winter activity ideas as an alternative to skiing
Winterwanderwege
A German word meaning "trekking on winter trails." Walking along groomed paths, surrounded by breathtaking landscapes, can turn even a simple day trip into an unforgettable experience. Highly popular in Switzerland and Austria, Winterwanderwege is also widely enjoyed in Italy, especially in the North. Alta Badia in Trentino-Alto Adige, the Great War trails in Carnia, the Stelvio National Park, the Brenta and Belluno Dolomites, and Aosta Valley: these enchanting areas all offer the chance to walk along beautiful snow-covered paths.
Ciaspolate (Snowshoeing)
The now-famous "snowshoes" are seeing more and more growth year after year: thanks to them, absolutely everyone, without needing any special technical or athletic skills, can walk on the snow and experience the mountains even in winter. The morning after a overnight snowfall, or under the light of a full moon: with snowshoes, you can tread through fresh powder without too much effort. Today, the numbers show this is an activity captivating more and more Italians from North to South, from the Alps to Mount Etna, thanks to the fact that it allows everyone to enjoy the magic of winter.
Slittino (Sledding / Tobogganing)
Sleddog (Dog Sledding)
What is the right gear for walking on snow?
To enjoy any of these activities, it is important to dress appropriately. First and foremost, your clothing must be waterproof: if you fall in the snow, spending the day wet and cold can be truly miserable.
This is especially true for your feet: wearing waterproof hiking boots (thanks to a GORE-TEX membrane) is fundamental, given that your footwear is in constant contact with the ground and the snow.
The second "rule" is all about staying warm. We all know that temperatures drop in the mountains, and if you head up to high altitudes, they can drop significantly. That is why it is essential to wear thermal underwear and layer up so you can remove clothing as needed—especially for those who are hiking and will likely sweat during the activity.
Another good habit is to always bring a change of clothes, both for those exerting themselves and those sitting comfortably on a pulled sled: the risk of getting wet is always just around the corner. This is even more vital for anyone choosing dog sledding or sledding, where wearing a beanie, gloves, and a scarf is a must to protect yourself from the brisk mountain air.
Some useful tips for walking on snow
Safety first. Whether you are alone or joined by family and friends, in winter you must always check the route beforehand. Especially in high mountains, it is important to gather information on the conditions of both the trail and the snowpack. In the case of fresh powder, for instance, it is best to opt for snowshoes. At the same time, it is good practice to check the avalanche report and avoid solo excursions: being rescued by other group members can be essential for survival in the event of an accident.
Protect your eyes. We have already talked about the right clothing for hiking or enjoying other snow activities, but we haven't yet mentioned the importance of sunglasses in the mountains. Whether in summer, but especially in winter, it is crucial to wear them to protect your eyes: the sun is stronger at high altitudes and its light becomes blinding with the snow. In fact, the sun's glare can be truly damaging.
Enjoy the view, with respect. In winter, the mountains reveal a more intimate version of themselves, and the connection you feel with nature is completely different—almost a privilege. The snow creates a muffled effect that brings calm and serenity. Breathing in the clean, crisp air and enjoying the silence of the rocks that seem to be asleep is a must for anyone visiting nature in winter. You can admire the majesty of the surrounding peaks, but at the same time, you must remember to show the utmost respect for the mountain: watch where you step to avoid slipping. The beauty of the snow can hide hazards like a sudden drop or a small hole.