Staying in shape through winter in Minneapolis is not as difficult as it may seem, in spite of the cold weather. This thriving Midwestern city of several million residents offers many ways for people to get and stay in shape in winter time. Somebody might be thinking, “Of course, all they have to do is shovel snow!” but winter in Minneapolis can be a great time to keep fit. There is an overwhelming variety of exciting outdoor activities to enjoy, some of which are quite surprising.

Bicycling

Residents and visitors can still cycle in the winter months on one of the city’s 50 miles of biking paths and trails. The park system offers both on and off-road configurations for cyclists wishing to ride during colder weather. Minneapolis, like its Twin City neighbor St. Paul, also has numerous recreational centers that offer fitness rooms where stationary cycling may be enjoyed. Members of any one of the national health club chains are sure to find a location of their gym within the city.

Cross Country Skiing

Minneapolis offers 25 kilometers of skiing trails at several of its renowned and popular parks. One, the Theodore Wirth Park, has a 2.5 kilometer segment equipped with lighting and snow making equipment. The city’s parks and recreation department offers a 90 minute class on the essentials of skiing to give those unfamiliar with the sport a chance to learn and enjoy the experience. There is no need to bring or buy equipment as rental equipment is available at all the locations with a ski trail; however, special pass for the ski trails is required.

Ice Skating

There are both public and privately owned ice rinks in Minneapolis for ice skating, although some are occasionally committed to hockey or broomball. If either are a sport visitors desire to play, there are leagues available; for recreational ice skating, the city has ice skating facilities in 23 of its parks. The outdoor rinks are open until mid February, and are equipped with warming rooms and a supply of loaner skates for those who don’t have a pair. It’s recommended that skaters call ahead to ensure a rink is available.

Snowshoeing

If reading the above word brings to mind images of tennis rackets tied to someone’s foot, you’ll be happy to know that snowshoes have moved into the 21^st century. Owning a pair of snowshoes is not necessary, as they are available for rent at the chalet in Wirth Park. The park has specific trails set aside for the winter hiking enthusiast, so visitors can take a trek at their leisure. For the more adventurous, there are moonlit and guided walks with naturalists and other specialty guides available.

Tubing and Sledding

Wirth Park in Minneapolis is also the premiere destination for tubing enthusiasts; the park boasts a lift and a tow rope to accompany its specially sculpted runs. The park only allows its custom designed tubes on the run and rental of the tubes is included in the price of the lift ticket. Evening hours and snow making equipment are also available at the park. Columbia Golf Course is the featured spot for sledders, since it boasts the tallest hill in the city. Tubes are available for rent but are not required, and both locations offer concessions.

Minneapolis has gone to considerable lengths to make keeping fit in the winter time a fun, accessible endeavor. With activities like these, there’s no need to stay indoors and hibernate. On the contrary, here in the Twin Cities, you can stay active all year long. With so many different activities to choose from, visitors choose to come back all year long, not just in the winter months.