We’re on the cusp of another good snowstorm and it got me to thinking of all the possibilities we have for outdoor winter fun! Of course there’s the obvious options of sledding and ice skating, but have you ever heard of ice boating? It was an unknown sport to me! Many these activities are available in your local communities, but there’s also good opportunity to get out and explore a little deeper into the state.
Do you have a favorite sledding hill or ice skating spot in your town? Drop it in the comments and help our new neighbors learn the ropes!
Downhill Skiing
One of Connecticut’s most popular skiing destination is located right in our Shoreline backyard! Powder Ridge Mountain Park and Resort located in Middlefield offers 24 trails, snowboarding, terrain park, and snow tubing. Also located less than an hour away from the Shoreline is Mount Southington in Plantsville. There you will find 14 trails on 51 skiable acres and 2 terrain parks.
Snowshoeing and Cross Country Skiing
The Regional Water Authority offers 9 recreational areas, in 13 communities, that are perfect for both snowshoeing and cross country skiing. You’ll need to purchase a permit to access these areas, but pricing is very reasonable and discounts are offered for students, seniors, the disabled, and veterans. Adding the AllTrails app to your phone is another great option when looking for new trails to explore.
Ice Fishing
What a great way to beat the winter blues! This safe, family friendly activity might even gift you with a fresh catch on your dinner table. Currently, the CT DEEP Fisheries Division is offering virtual Learn to Ice Fish classes via ZOOM. The free classes do require registration and will cover safety on the ice, how to dress for the cold, where to go, ice fishing equipment, bait, techniques, and tactics. All participants will be invited to register for an instructor lead ice fishing trip (pending safe ice) following completion of the ZOOM class. Ice fishing trips are limited to the first 20 people who register. We will email you an invitation with dates and details after the ZOOM class!
Ice Climbing
For the thrill seekers out there Connecticut also offers a bit of ice climbing. Never tried before, but looking for a new experience? The short, steep courses available in Connecticut are said to be perfect for beginners. Ascent Climbing offers classes in several areas throughout the state and we are lucky enough to have one close by at Chatfield Hollow State Park in Killingworth. No experience is required, just a willingness to try something new! All necessary equipment is provided and instruction is available to those ages 15 and up. Inforation on how to sign up here.
Ice Boating
This is definitely a new sport to me! Did you know that people boat on top of frozen lakes? In fact, Connecticut has its very own ice yachting club based out of Bantam Lake, CT in Litchfield County. The Connecticut Ice Yacht Club has a history dating back to 1939 , but wasn’t officially incorporated as a yachting association until 1980. Contact the club on how to get started if gliding over the ice at speeds of 60mph or greater sounds like your cup of tea!