Winter has certainly arrived (though this third week in January will feel more like spring!). The lakes are silent, cold and glassy. The trees are bare. The kids’ foot-worn path through the woods is covered with leaves, sometimes snow. But that doesn’t mean there’s not a whole new wilderness to discover at Innsbrook.

Embrace the crisp winter air and find new ways to enjoy the changing landscape around your Innsbrook getaway with the kids and grandkids. Here are some ideas:

Through a Child’s Eyes – Buy each of the kids a disposable camera and hit the woods, one of Innsbrook’s nature trails or the historic log cabin for a family photo outing. See what animal tracks you discover! When you get the photos developed, the kids will be proud of what they captured, plus it’ll be a great way to reminisce.

Photo by Sarah Tuck

Stargazing – A crisp, clear winter night is a great time for gazing up at the stars. Print out constellations from an astronomy website and see what you can find!

Hoop it Up – You may be a hula hooping expert in shorts and a tank top or swimsuit, but have you ever tried it while bundled up in all your winter layers? Get the whole family outside and have a hula hooping contest to crown the winter hula hoop master.

Hot Lava – Fallen trees make the perfect setting for made-up games like Hot Lava. Balance on trees and rocks – slip off and you’ll be in the lava! Use your imagination to come up with your own fun in the woods.

Photo by the Hoech family

Chefs in the Making – Turning the stove on will warm up the house, so let your kids help you make a meal! Find tasty new cold-weather recipes to try on our “Cold Weather Cravings” Pinterest board.

Become Nature’s Artist – Collect pinecones on a winter hike – you can make so many crafts with them, making this an indoor/outdoor activity. With pinecones, you can make bird feeders, adorable owls, and a rose bouquet.

Skate the Day Away – Go ice skating or teach the kids to skate! Innsbrook’s Skating Pond is located near the Farmhouse, complete with hockey goals and a bonfire!

Photo by Mike Behnen

Ice Bubbles – When the temperature drops below 32 degrees, blow bubbles and watch them turn into ice bubbles.

For the Birds – Feed the birds or go bird watching. Read which birds winter in our area, then have a bird count contest and see who spots the most. Record empty nests, too. Bring your binoculars!

Photo by Debbie Day

These activities can supplement your classic family bonfire, snowball fighting, snowman building and s’more making activities.

How does your family stay active outdoors in the wintertime?