This article is presented in partnership with Visit Columbia.

Getting a little stir crazy? Craving some crisp air? Sick of the stuffiness? We get it. If months of being stuck in your house have made you an outdoors person, be sure to check out these outdoor winter activities around Columbia.

Go Skating or Sledding at Stephens Lake Park

When the ice and snow are thick, head out to Stephens Lake Park for some quintessential winter fun. On the east side of the lake, you’ll find a perfect hill for sledding — whether you’re a kid or just act like one. And once you’ve checked to make sure the lake is cleared for skating, lace up and show off your figure eights or slapshots. Near the sledding hill, you’ll also find a fire pit at Collins Shelter so you can get toasty before exploring the snowy sights or hopping back on your sled.

Try Out Ice Fishing at Cosmo-Bethel Lake

Time to swap out your regular rod and reel for your ice fishing gear. Every winter, the Missouri Department of Conservation and Columbia Parks and Recreation stock up Cosmo-Bethel Lake with trout so locals and visitors alike can enjoy the uniqueness of catch-and-release ice fishing. Most of the trout are 10-12 inches long, but if you’re lucky and patient enough, you may just catch something bigger.


MKT and Your Cross-Country Skis

The MKT Trail transforms after every snowfall, becoming the perfect place to strap on your skis and enjoy the peace and tranquility of wintertime. Since the trail is made of crushed limestone and left unplowed, it makes for ideal cross-country skiing conditions — whether you’re in it for the fitness or to immerse yourself in nature among freshly fallen snow.

Stay Safe

Please note, all visitors and residents of Columbia are required to wear masks in public places (WEAR – ordinance enforced). We also encourage maintaining a six-foot distance between people not from the same household (WATCH), as well as frequent and thorough hand washing and sanitizing (WASH).