There’s always skiing and snowboarding, but sometimes, frigid fun can be found right in your own backyard. On the next snow day or lazy weekend, rediscover your inner child and have a blast with one of these cool and perfectly seasonal ideas.

Sledding and Tubing

Snow Tubing FriendsFor an adrenaline rush that’s unlike any other — except maybe the one you get from a rollercoaster — grab your sled and head to the nearest hill. Areas that also offer tubing can be even more fun, as you can probably fit your entire family in one of them! Of course, when you’ve been sufficiently chilled, most parks have their own snack bar that serves up hot cocoa and other treats for you to enjoy.

Building a Snow Fort

Get creative! From igloos to castles and everything in between there are so many shapes and designs to choose from, and architecting a sturdy structure takes some real brainpower. It might not keep you as warm as a real cabin, but you can always admire your handiwork from inside the cozy comfort of your home.

Making Snow Angels

Making a Snow AngelIt’s free, fun for the whole family, and takes almost no effort to make a pretty impression in your yard — even if it only lasts until the snow starts to melt. Just two easy motions and you’ve got your own masterpiece.

Creating a Snowman

Family With a SnowmanYou don’t have to pretend he’s Parson Brown, but crafting your own one-of-a-kind character takes imagination, patience, and a little bit of teamwork. It’s a great activity for adults and kids of all ages, and will add a festive (though temporary) decoration to your front yard as well! Take a look around the house for accessories to style your new friend: try button eyes and a mouth, a carrot nose, and a cute scarf for good measure. Don’t forget to give him a fitting name when you’re finished!

Snowshoeing 

Who says you can’t go hiking in the winter? Many trails are still open for snowshoeing expeditions, even offering the equipment to rent if you don’t have your own. The best part is that unlike other cold-weather outdoor pursuits like boarding or downhill skiing, you don’t need any previous experience to strap on a pair of snowshoes and go exploring.