When the temperatures drop and the snow begins to fall, many outdoor enthusiasts think their adventures are over until spring. But winter opens up a different set of opportunities for those who love the outdoors. Whether it’s the quiet of a snow-covered trail, the challenge of navigating through frosty terrain, or the beauty of a frozen landscape, winter activities are an entirely unique experience. From skiing to winter hiking, there is a lot to explore.
While you might already associate GPX Viewer with summer hikes, our app can also help you with your winter activities.
Cross-country skiing
Cross-country skiing is one of the most rewarding winter activities, providing both exercise and a chance to explore new areas. Cross-country skiing isn’t just about enjoying the snow — it’s a physically demanding sport with impressive benefits that go beyond what many expect. Did you know that:
- While cross-country skiing may look slow compared to alpine skiing, experienced skiers can reach speeds of 20–25 km/h on flat terrain and even faster on descents.
- Cross-country skiing engages nearly every muscle in the body, making it an incredibly effective workout. Depending on intensity and terrain, it can burn between 500 to 1,100 calories per hour.
- Many elite athletes, including cyclists and runners, use cross-country skiing for off-season training. The sport improves cardiovascular fitness, strengthens the core, and enhances endurance
Are you planning a cross-country skiing adventure? Record your activity with GPX Viewer Pro to track your progress. You can also look for GPX files for cross-country skiing in your region to find new ideas and inspiration for next activities. For example, Dolomiti Nordicski, a large cross-country skiing area located in the Dolomite mountains in northeastern Italy offers GPX files for each of its skiing areas on their website.
Snowshoeing
Want to try something different than skiing? How about snowshoeing? Snowshoeing involves wearing specially designed shoes that spread your weight over a larger surface area, allowing you to walk on deep snow without sinking. It’s like walking, but with a bit more adventure! Here are some interesting facts about snowshoeing:
- It’s an ancient mode of travel – Snowshoes have been used for over 6,000 years, originally by indigenous people in cold climates to travel over snow-covered terrain.
- It’s beginner-friendly – Unlike skiing, which requires more technical skills, snowshoeing is easy to pick up. If you can walk, you can snowshoe. It’s a low-impact activity, making it ideal for people of all ages and fitness levels.
Snowshoeing is a fantastic way to access areas that might otherwise be difficult to reach in the winter months. Many trails that are off-limits in the warmer seasons become accessible with snowshoes. So, if you’re looking for a fun, accessible, and rewarding way to enjoy the winter outdoors, snowshoeing might just be the perfect choice. And of course, GPX tracks for snowshoeing can also be found online.
Winter Hiking
Winter hiking is another fantastic way to embrace the colder months. Hiking in winter offers a peaceful experience with snow-covered trails, crisp air, and fewer crowds. Even if you’re hiking the same trail you’ve explored in the summer, winter transforms it into an entirely new experience. The familiar path becomes an entirely different world, where snow blankets the ground, and the absence of foliage offers clear views of the landscape.
Winter hiking requires some extra preparation. Wearing proper footwear and layering your clothing are crucial to staying warm and safe. It’s important to check weather conditions, as snowstorms or icy conditions can make hiking more dangerous. With GPX Viewer you can confidently explore snowy paths without the fear of getting lost.
With GPX Viewer by your side, you can make the most of your outdoor adventures even in winter. Navigate snowy trails with confidence, stay on course, and track your progress — no matter the activity. The cold weather doesn’t have to keep you indoors, it’s the perfect time to get out and enjoy nature in a whole new way.
