Champagne Powder and Freshies! To many, that sound is as sweet as vanilla; but to others, it’s a death sentence. Those who would rather not be on the slopes, or those who just need a day break after smashing some powder, this one’s for you.

As ski season approaches, life can get hazy for all those who don’t love to hit the slopes.  In Colorado, there are so many ski towns where families can spend the weekends in the mountains. For those who don’t ski or board, there are always alternatives than being on the mountains.

Rather than shredding the gnar, find some outdoors activities in the town you are staying in that you can do instead.

If you are in Breckenridge:

Rather than mountain skiing, look at cross country skiing! Cross Country skiing is the perfect alternative, with less extreme weather conditions.

Let’s say that skiing isn’t your cup of tea, why not head over to the Maggie Pond and Ice Skate.

Skating isn’t the extent of activities in Breckenridge. Sledding at Carter Park, Snowshoeing, and looking at the International Snow Sculpture Championships are just some of the few other possible alternatives to being up on the slopes skiing.

Preston Moskal, an Air Academy student with a cabin in Breckenridge says, “I love to spend the days on the slopes, but sometimes I need to give my legs a break. My parents and I go sledding in town and we bring our dogs with us! It’s fun to be out in the snow but not working hard on all the runs! If we don’t go sledding, I take my dogs out with me in the mornings and snowshoe from my cabin. They love it and it keeps me outside enjoying beautiful Breckenridge!”

If you are in Vail:

Most of the same things are available!

Ice Skating rinks are found in both Lionshead and Vail Village center, as well as in Dobson Ice Arena.

A quick gondola ride up to Adventure Ridge will open up a lot of different options, where tons of other activities are available as well! For the thrill seekers: ride the new Forest Flyer Mountain Coaster! On Vail Mountain, this new alpine coaster winds down over 3,000 feet down the hill. A cheaper side for the thrill seeker is tubing! There is an easy lift ride up to bring those who are tubing to the top leaving an easy experience all while having fun! Jessica Cox, an avid mountain goer, says, “I love to ski, but sometimes it is nice to change it up and go tubing! I still get all the fun of racing down the mountain but I don’t get so tired.”

If you are vacationing in Aspen:

While those powder hounds hit the slopes, find some fresh air while dog sledding! Krabloonik is a dog sledding organization that is committed to preserving this Alaskan tradition between man and animal. As a veteran dog-sledder myself, I must say it is an experience of a lifetime. Dog Sledding is something that will have you planning your next trip back before you’ve even left! On the other side, you can take a scenic snowmobile tour to Maroon Bells, a favorite hiking trail of many native Coloradans. If you feel like moving those legs and trying out snowshoeing, head over to the Rio Grande Trail, or Hunter Creek Trail.

Ski season is hot on our tails, but do not fret! Keep your tips- I mean heads-up this winter!