For those of us who live in states with super cold winters, November through to March can be challenging at times. It’s… cold. Heavy winds and darker days may have you tempted to hibernate inside, and the doomscrolling dopamine hits makes it easy to stay perma-glued to your couch. Your dog alternates between bouncing off the walls and pawing at you to entertain him.
Yeah, winter may have frozen your motivation to plan adventures, but your outdoor lifestyle doesn’t have to come to a halt. (And honestly, your dog won’t accept that anyway.) So instead of hibernating until spring, here are a few ways to avoid the winter blues.
Winter hike. Enjoy the solitude.
You may live in a snow-covered spot or just a city that gets a little gloomy at this time of year. In any case, winter hiking during this time of year is a totally different vibe. For starters, you and your dog barely have to share the trail (a win!). And, there’s a fun, adventurous vibe with snowy trails as you appreciate frozen streams and frost-covered trees.
You may start the season learning the how-tos of winter hiking with your dog. For example, if your dog has long fur, it won’t take long for you to figure out that a powsuit will keep the snowballs from forming. Less snow and ice buildup means your dog won’t freeze… and there’s less cleanup for you upon returning indoors. Also, snow tends to get stuck in paws forming clumps and tiny snowballs. Powwax is your solution to that as it keeps snow from clinging in the first place.
In mid-winter, you’re figuring out the details but by March, you’ll know which trails to avoid and which ones have that pretty snowglobe aesthetic. Snowshoeing might be your new thing.
Romanticize the run.
Keeping active during the winter often boils down to mentality. Once something like running (or just longer morning walks) become non-negotiable, the question isn’t *if* you should head out but rather where, for how long, and when. That opens the door for some really cool winter memories like running through the first snowfalls with your dog, being the only ones at the park on a cold afternoon, or catching a crisp morning sunrise as you accumulate miles.
In romanticizing the run this season, you’re both appreciating winter for what it is and keeping fit enough for spring adventures. It only takes that one second of decision making to get off the couch. Tip for winter runners: You’re going to want your best pal dressed up in bright colors and/or reflective wear for snowy days or runs after dark.
Rent a cabin. Make it cozy.
If you do feel tempted to hibernate (don’t we all), make it worth it. The move is to book a cabin, pack all the cozy blankets and sweaters, bring a luxury toy for the fur ball, and some hearty snacks for you, and lean into the coziest adventure weekend. Time curled up in sweats is best appreciated after spending time in frosty temperatures. That means discovering a new trail, exploring new neighborhoods at leisure, or stopping into dog-friendly cafes.
Don’t underestimate the winter picnic.
The saying for outdoorsy people who love winter is, “No bad weather, just bad gear,” and while that may come across as a tad chipper in the middle of a blizzard, it’s true. With heavy fleece layers for you and a winter jacket for your dog, you’re an unstoppable duo. That means that typical (shorter) outdoor activities like a stroll and a picnic are on the table when the sun is shining. Pack tea, soup in a thermos, extra treats for your dog, a water-resistant picnic blanket, find a sheltered spot out of the wind, and you’re good to have a short winter picnic and get some Vitamin D on your face.
Lower the expectation.
It’s true that temperatures are cold and winds can be chilly but in the end, that just calls for a little extra planning and preparation. The goal isn’t to push through at the cost of comfort—yours or your dog’s. This isn’t about aiming for ultra runs with your dog, full days outside, or to get really into winter camping (unless you want to). Rather, it’s about finding joy in the smaller moments outside. Sometimes lowering the expectations is how you make room to appreciate the season. If the two of you spent time outdoors, your dog isn’t going stir crazy, and you’re keeping your active lifestyle going, that’s a win.
Make fetch after a fresh snowfall non-negotiable.
Some of us might flinch a little as temperatures drop. You dog? Not even a little bit. For your dog, a fresh snowfall might be The Best Thing Ever. Take their lead, lean into play time, and make fetch (we have a set of bright fetch balls that won’t get lost in snow drifts) or one-sided snowball fights your thing. This is a low effort way to keep it wild this winter and your dog will love you for it.
Keep spring intentions in mind.
It might not feel like it now, but spring will sneak up on you. Your dog probably isn’t going to allow you to hibernate and ditch the trails anyway. However, if their head butts and insistent “let’s go for a walk!” stare isn’t enough motivation alone, consider that what you do now is keeping you fit for when the warmer months do arrive. By April, you and your best friend will be hitting the trails and climbing mountains… without struggling to catch your breath. Nicely done!
