Feeling a little chilly? A winter-workout might be the best thing for staying warm this season.
Holiday parties and festive feastings are behind us so it’s a great time to be active over the next few months of frosty weather.
Don’t think that a snowy day means that we need to stay inside or postpone our workouts—here are some of the best ways to chase off the chill this season in the great outdoors!
Northwest Calgary is home to multiple spots for scenic, snowy treks and can be enjoyed by cross-country skiers and snowshoers alike. For the snow-covered days when a jog is more trouble than it’s worth, try either of these sports on for size — gear can be rented locally at University of Calgary’s Outdoor Centre.
To get moving on your cross-country skiing or snowshoeing adventure, head down to any of NW Calgary’s parks, or take a look at the dedicated tracks available at Shaganappi Point Golf Course, Confederation Golf Course and Bowness Park.
Fat biking might be the answer to your winter cycling woes.
With a set of two giant wheels to keep you steady, a fat bike is meant to be ridden in snowy conditions, making cold-weather commuting and adventures a snap!
The host of pathways and trails within the Northwest provide the perfect backdrop for snow-covered bike rides — a worthy alternative to riding out the season inside the gym. If you’re not ready to buy your own, we recommend that you rent a fat bike from Calgary’s own Bow Cycle.
From gentle slopes, to steeper climbs, head to the Northwest’s Nose Hill to give fat biking a try!
A classic winter pursuit and a Canadian cold-weather mainstay, sledding might be one of the best ways to chase off the chill during our snowy months.
Considered as a nostalgic activity for many of us who enjoyed childhood adventures on the back of a toboggan, sledding continues to be a fun activity for all ages. Grab your vessel of choice and head down to your nearest hill to join in on the fun. Some of the Northwest’s best sledding spots include:
What better time than winter to pull on your skates and head for your nearest rink?
To take in some seasonal scenery, head to the Northwest’s Bowness Park where you can skate the Bow River-fed lagoons that run throughout —making for an adventure that extends beyond your typical rink. When you’re done, warm up at Seasons of Bowness Park Restaurant for a host of locally-sourced, seasonal goodies, and a much-deserved hot chocolate.
Don’t have any skates to call your own? Not to worry, University of Calgary’s Outdoor Centre is happy to rent you some.
The cold is unlikely to stop our furry friends from wanting to get outside for a W-A-L-K. Let them serve as motivation in getting us out when we might be tempted to stay in.
If you’re looking to let your dog off the leash, Northwest Calgary offers a number of dedicated parks perfect for a winter adventure—find the list and maps here.
Here’s to winter warm-ups of all kinds! Want to experience NW Calgary by calling University District home? Visit the heart of the NW and explore University District by visiting our Discovery Centre for the latest and greatest from our growing community.
The University District blog is a resource for Calgarians who want to live, work, play, visit or buy in the northwest. We will provide you with information, stories, news and a closer look at the things that matter so you can live a more inspired, active and connected life in NW Calgary at University District… Life works here.
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