Fun Winter Activities In Indiana

Situated in the Midwestern United States, Indiana experiences the humid heat of summer and the bitter cold of winter. Northern Indiana typically receives more snowfall than the southern part of the state throughout the season. During the colder months, Hoosiers---a term for Indiana natives---enjoy a variety of outdoor activities from traditional winter sports to outdoor festivals.

Cross-Country Skiing

A popular year-round northern Indiana destination, Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore sits along the shores of Lake Michigan just 30 minutes south of Chicago. In the winter months, Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore offers hiking, cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. The 6.4-mile Ly-co-ki-we Trail is ideal for cross-country skiing, while the 3-mile Island Marsh Trail offers more difficult hills for advanced skiers. Trails at the park are not groomed and rentals are not available.

Downhill Skiing and Snowboarding

One of Indiana's only ski resorts, Paoli Peaks is located in southern Indiana about 90 miles south of Indianapolis. Paoli Peaks offers 17 trails, three terrain parks, snow tubing and a kids' fun park. Ski and snowboard lessons, a day lodge, rental equipment and a pro shop are also on site. Due to southern Indiana's mild winters, Paoli Peaks operates from mid-December through early March. Several lodging options are available nearby.

Holiday Festivities

The historic town of Metamora, Indiana offers Christmas pageantry in a winter wonderland setting during its annual Christmas Walk. Located in central Indiana, Metamora's Christmas Walk takes visitors on a stroll through the historic village and includes a lantern-lit canal, carolers, illuminated pathways, horse-drawn carriage rides, unique shops, warm drinks, Christmas decor, and Mr. and Mrs. Claus. Festivities begin Thanksgiving weekend and continue through the first three weekends in December.

Snowmobiling

In the northern part of the state, Elkhart County is home to the 60-mile Miami Snowmobile Trail. The Elkhart County Snowmobile Club has been maintaining the trail since 1975. The snowmobile-only trail runs to the Michigan state line in Vistula, Indiana and is only open when there has been adequate snowfall.

Sledding

Fort Harrison State Park houses one of the biggest sledding hills in central Indiana. Located in Indianapolis, Fort Harrison is a 17,000-square-foot state park that is open year round. The park also offers nature trails for cross-country skiing and ice fishing at the lake. The Fort Harrison State Park Inn and Conference Center offers on-site lodging.