As the weather gets cold and snowy, it's easy to spend most of your time inside listening to the crackle of the fire, watching Christmas flicks, and drinking warm beverages. While those lazy days are enjoyable and needed, make sure you don’t miss out on the unique activities Idaho winters have to offer. Below are five great things to do near NNU in the winter.
Explore Bogus Basin
Whether you’re craving a leisurely stroll through frosted woods or an adrenaline rush speeding down the slopes, Bogus Basin is a perfect place to enjoy snow. Skiing, snowboarding, snowmobiling, sledding, snowshoeing—all of these winter activities are available in the forested mountains only about an hour from campus. This readily accessible resort means the outdoor fun doesn’t have to wait for the weekend; students can drive to Bogus after a full day of school for night skiing and snowboarding.
Hang out at The Village
The Village at Meridian offers much for those wanting a festive and bustling environment. Beautiful buildings, lights, music and fountain water shows provide a fun atmosphere to socialize during the winter season. At The Village, students can ice skate, dine in fine restaurants, go to a movie, shop or simply hangout. Less than 20 minutes from NNU, this establishment is an ideal gathering place for friends and family.
Rejuvenate in hot springs
If you are looking for a more relaxing and cheap winter getaway, visit one of the many free and natural spas—Idaho’s hot springs. Hot springs provide students with the opportunity to enjoy the outdoors while giving their mind and body a much needed respite from their busy schedule. After a day at Gold Fork or Kirkham Hot Springs, few leave without feeling rejuvenated and ready to tackle the next week.
Experience Boise
Besides having a wide variety of fun restaurants with great grub, Boise offers students engaging places to visit while escaping the cold. Whether you want interactive or passive activities, Boise has it. Ice skate or attend a hockey game at Ice world. Watch The Nutcracker ballet at the Morrison Center or an old Christmas classic at the Egyptian Theatre. Walk through the stunning light display at Winter Garden aGlow in the Idaho Botanical Gardens. Create your own ornaments at Boise Art Glass.
Visit McCall
Even though the drive to McCall from Nampa takes two and a half hours, the time is worth it. This mountain resort community is stunning and bustling in the winter months. In addition to offering a wide variety of winter sports and activities, this town hosts an annual Winter Carnival Festival, which consists of giant snow sculptures, vendors, and live music. The 2017 festival runs from January 27 to February 5.
So the next time you’re preparing to have a cozy day at home, remember some of the fun seasonal activities available around NNU. Winter is the perfect time of year to enjoy the snow and festive atmosphere—and the opportunities don’t last for long!
The Village at Meridian / used with permission