When people think about winter sports, they usually picture skiing, snowboarding, or ice skating. These are all fun and popular, but they’re not the only ways to enjoy the cold season. In fact, there are many underrated winter sports that are exciting, challenging, and a great way to stay active during the winter months. If you’re looking for something new and different this year, why not step off the beaten path?
Here are five lesser-known but amazing winter sports you should try this winter.
1. Snowshoeing – A Peaceful Winter Hike
Snowshoeing is one of the simplest winter sports you can try, and it’s perfect for people who enjoy hiking. Instead of walking on snowy trails with boots and sinking into the snow, snowshoes spread your weight so you can walk on top of it.
You don’t need to be a top athlete to snowshoe. If you can walk, you can snowshoe. It’s low-impact, beginner-friendly, and great for all ages. Plus, you can do it at your own pace. Some people snowshoe slowly through quiet forests, while others use it for intense cardio workouts.
Snowshoeing is also a great way to explore nature in the winter. Trails that might be too crowded in the summer are quiet and peaceful in the snow. You can see animal tracks, frozen rivers, and snow-covered trees—it’s like stepping into a winter wonderland.
Getting started is easy. You just need snowshoes, warm clothing, and a trail with enough snow. Many parks rent gear and have marked snowshoe paths.
Why it’s underrated:
People often overlook it because it seems too simple or slow. But it offers a great workout and deep connection with nature.
2. Curling – Strategy on Ice
You may have seen curling during the Winter Olympics, where players slide large stones across ice and use brooms to guide them. It might look strange at first, but curling is a sport full of skill, teamwork, and strategy.
Curling is sometimes called “chess on ice” because it requires a lot of thinking and planning. Each team tries to get their stones closest to the center of a target while knocking away the other team’s stones.
It may not be fast-paced, but it’s surprisingly intense. The sport is fun, social, and full of surprises. It’s also great for people who want to stay active in the winter without doing something high-impact or risky.
You don’t need to be strong or fast to play curling. Many curling clubs offer beginner nights or open sessions. You’ll get a quick lesson, try a few stones, and probably have a great time laughing and learning something new.
Why it’s underrated:
Because it looks slow and odd to some people, they don’t give it a chance. But it’s one of the most fun and social winter sports you can play indoors.
3. Fat Biking – Biking Through Snow
Do you love biking? You don’t have to stop when winter arrives. With a fat bike, you can ride on snow and icy trails.
Fat bikes have extra-wide tires with deep treads that help you stay balanced and grip the ground. They’re made to ride over snow, sand, and rough terrain.
Fat biking gives you the thrill of mountain biking but with a winter twist. It’s an excellent way to stay in shape during cold months, and it lets you explore snowy landscapes in a whole new way.
You can find fat bike trails at many winter resorts or parks. Some even groom the trails for biking just like they do for skiing.
This sport is a great mix of adventure and exercise. It may be cold outside, but you’ll warm up fast when you start pedaling through snow and ice.
Why it’s underrated:
Many people don’t know fat bikes exist or think biking isn’t possible in winter. But it’s fun, effective, and a cool alternative to traditional winter sports.
4. Ice Climbing – For the Adventurous Spirit
If you’re looking for a real challenge and love adventure, ice climbing might be your perfect winter sport. It’s like rock climbing, but instead of climbing a mountain or wall, you’re climbing frozen waterfalls or icy rock faces.
Ice climbing uses special gear like crampons (spikes for your boots), ice axes, and ropes. You climb slowly and carefully, picking your way up the ice.
It’s definitely not for everyone, but it’s one of the most thrilling winter activities out there. The feeling of climbing up a wall of ice with the sound of your tools striking into the surface is unforgettable.
If you’re a beginner, don’t worry. You can take a guided class. Many outdoor adventure companies offer intro courses where they teach you safety, technique, and let you try easy routes.
You’ll need to be in good shape and comfortable with heights, but if you love climbing or want to try something bold, ice climbing is a winter sport worth trying.
Why it’s underrated:
Most people think it’s too extreme or dangerous, but with a guide and the right gear, it’s a safe and amazing experience.
5. Skijoring – Skiing with a Twist
Skijoring is a unique winter sport that mixes cross-country skiing and dog sledding. In this sport, you wear skis while being pulled by one or two dogs. It started in Scandinavia and is now growing in popularity across snowy regions.
If you already enjoy skiing and have a medium or large dog, skijoring is a great way to bond with your pet and get some exercise. The dog wears a special harness and is connected to your belt with a stretchy rope.
As you both move together, you help your dog by skiing along, and your dog helps pull you forward. It’s fast, fun, and full of teamwork.
Don’t have a dog? Some winter resorts offer skijoring experiences where trained dogs and instructors guide you through the process.
Like cross-country skiing, skijoring takes some practice, but once you get the rhythm, it’s exciting and fast-paced. Plus, your dog will love the workout too.
Why it’s underrated:
Most people have never heard of it. But it’s one of the most enjoyable and bonding winter sports for dog lovers.
Final Thoughts
Winter is more than just cold weather and snow—it’s a chance to try something new and exciting. These five underrated winter sports are great alternatives to the usual skiing or skating. Whether you want a peaceful hike in the snow, a strategic team game, or a thrilling climb up an icy wall, there’s something here for everyone.
Trying a new sport can boost your mood, help you stay fit, and make winter a lot more fun. Many of these activities are beginner-friendly and don’t require expensive gear or lessons to get started. Some, like snowshoeing or fat biking, can be enjoyed on your own. Others, like curling or skijoring, are a great way to connect with friends or pets.
So this winter, step out of your comfort zone. Skip the ski lift lines. Try a sport that’s off the radar but full of rewards. You might just discover your new favorite way to enjoy the snow.
