by Russ Lowthian, HaveFunBiking

For many of us, being active outdoors enjoying fun winter activities (biking, hiking, etc.) with the Coronavirus’s uncertainty has been challenging. The last two years (2020-2021) have been like no other in recent memory. Despite the lifestyle changes caused by this virus, there’s still plenty of fun to be had. In fact, seeking out healthy activities may be even more important now as winter approaches. Doing something you enjoy can distract you from problems and help you cope with all the new life challenges.

Page through our latest Bike/Hike Guide with many maps of Minnesota destinations offering fun winter activities. Then, layer up your dress attire for the temperature swings ahead and head out. You will soon discover that outdoor pursuits pose a lower risk of getting sick than indoor activities do if you haven’t already.

It’s a perfect time of the year to jump on a fatty and hit a Minnesota trail.

Why choose outdoor activities?

According to a recent article from the Mayo Clinic. The COVID-19 virus is primarily spread from person to person through respiratory droplets. Released into the air when a person is talking, coughing, or sneezing. In contact with others indoors, you’re more likely to inhale these droplets from an infected person.

With plenty of layers and a mask, this biker dude is having fun in the Bold North.

When outside, the fresh air is constantly moving, dispersing these droplets. You’re less likely to breathe in enough of the virus’s respiratory droplets to become infected. Being outside enjoying Minnesota’s fun outdoor activities offers other benefits, too. As you may have discovered this summer, being outside also offers an emotional boost that will help you feel less tense, stressed, angry, or depressed.

This biker chick’s winter activities include having fun along the Minnesota River bottoms near Bloomington, MN.

Move more with low-risk Minnesota winter activities.

In general, any activity that allows you to keep a social distance of at least 6 feet (2 meters) from others is lower-risk. Here in Minnesota, a winter wonderland pursuits, consider moving with these low-risk outdoor activities to stay healthy and safe. Again, use the current Minnesota Bike/Hike Guide, with all the maps, to find a place to enjoy the following hobbies.

• Fat Biking
• Nature walks
• Snowshoeing
• Downhill and/or cross country skiing
• Ice skating
• Ice fishing and hunting
• Fitness classes, held outside to allow extra distancing
• And exploring the snow-covered trails on an ATV.

Similar to your summer experiences, try to avoid crowded walkways and narrow paths. Choose routes that make it easy to keep your distance. Wear a mask when you can’t maintain at least 6 feet (2 meters) from people you don’t live with.

Winter activities can also include stopping to make a snowman when fat biking?

As fall turns to winter, your well-being also includes doing things that make life worth living. With the right information, you can make thoughtful choices about ways to bring a sense of normalcy and joy to your life during this pandemic. Maybe with some fun Minnesota winter activities!

Remember that just getting together for a chat at a safe distance can offer a valuable opportunity to be with people you care about — and boost your mood at the same time.