1. Skating

In the heart of downtown Grand Forks, the Town Square Ice Rink is open to the public and for all ages. If you want to feel like you live in a Hallmark movie, this is activity is right up your alley! After skating, there are often events downtown or local groups serving hot cocoa by the rink. It’s a great place to meet other families or learn to skate! Skates are available to rent at a few places – check out the UND Wellness Center OutPost or Play It Again Sports if you need to borrow a pair. We are a big hockey community, so I can’t forget to include that here, too! You will often see groups practicing hockey at one of the community rinks.

2. Broomball

I haven’t played competitively, but I’ve watched a game or two and had five seconds of fame as an extra on the Food Network’s “Girl Meets Farm” with Molly Yeh, cheering in the background during a game! I’m not sure I fully understand the rules, but it seems like a mix of hockey and soccer, but on ice (in boots – not ice skates) and with broom-like sticks. It’s difficult to explain, but it is a fun time whether you choose to watch a game or play. Teams play weekly during the winter. Check it out here if you are interested in joining! It’s truly one of my favorite winter activities in Grand Forks, ND.

3. Snowshoeing or Running

Snowshoeing is a fun activity that can be done anywhere in town or on the Greenway (a 22-mile path running through the heart of Grand Forks along the Red River) trails. You can also explore the beautiful trails at Turtle River State Park. In addition to snowshoeing, we also have some brave souls that live here and run all year long! If that’s your thing, check out the Frozen Feat Race. Each year, runners compete in a 5K or 10K race, and a portion of the proceeds go to charity. There’s nothing cooler than conquering the cold for a good cause, right? If you are ready to run during all seasons of the year, our friends at See Dick Run have some great gear to make sure you stay warm and safe during your outdoor run!

4. Curling

Grand Forks is home to a magnificent curling club that has hosted multiple national and world events. I had the opportunity to tour the Grand Forks Curling Club and was so impressed with the atmosphere and camaraderie. Whether you play or cheer on a team, it’s an exciting time and will keep you on your toes as you watch the rock glide across the ice and sweep in to earn some points. I will be back for the next “Learn to Curl” session they offer. For more details and to check the upcoming schedule, visit their website, or follow them on social media.

5. Skiing or Skijoring

To top the list, my favorite outdoor activity on a beautiful winter day is skiing. There are so many great trails for cross-country skiing. The Ski and Bike Shop offers various types of skis and can recommend a good fit. There are several places in town to rent skis at a daily or weekly rate, including the OutPost at UND’s Wellness Center. This year, I took up skijoring. With the proper harnesses and gear, I connect my two dogs, who love to run in front of me on the trail. It’s a unique adventure, and we love it! Watch this clip below to see it in action!

Cassandra Van Dell on Instagram: “Ready, set, skijor! ???❄️ We had so much fun skijoring for the first time this past weekend! The pups loved every minute out in the…”