Multicultural Trail Network

Winter is more than a season - it’s a chance to build resilience, try something new and connect with the land we live on in a whole new way.

Activities like snow shoeing, ice skating or cross-country skiing support confidence, endurance, and joy in movement in the colder temperatures.

Curious to try it yourself or know someone who would love it? Join us for our beginner-friendly Intro to Cross-Country Skiing on January 31. ⛷️✨

🔗 Link in bio to learn more or register!

Ready to try something new this winter? 🎿 ❄️

Join Multicultural Trail Network for a fun and beginner-friendly Intro to Cross-Country Skiing at Confederation Park Golf Course! This 3-hour lesson is led by experienced instructors from UofC’s Outdoor Centre, alongside MTN group leaders, and is designed to help you feel confident on skis - no experience needed.

✨ What you’ll learn:
• How to properly fit and use cross-country ski gear
• Basic techniques to get you gliding comfortably
• Winter outdoor skills in a supportive group setting

🗓 Saturday, Jan 30, 2026
🕒 12:30 – 3:30 PM
📍 Confederation Park Golf Course
👥 BIPOC, Newomer & Refugees - Ages 14–24

🎒 Gear included (provided by UofC)
🚗 No transportation provided
💸 $20 registration fee (includes rentals + full lesson)

🔗 Register link in bio or at mtntwork.ca/programs

📝 Registration deadline: January 18

Whether you’re brand new to winter sports or looking to try something different, this is a perfect way to get outside, move your body, and enjoy winter together

👉🏽 Spots are limited—register early!

You don’t need a big budget (or a big adventure) to enjoy the outdoors this season. ❄️

Here are 9 simple, affordable ideas to help you stay grounded, mindful, and connected this winter in Calgary:

1️⃣ Pack some chai, Mexican hot chocolate or ginger tea and enjoy it on a winter mindfulness walk. Tune into the sounds and stillness around you.
2️⃣ Visit a nearby urban park like Prince’s Island or Lindsay Park or St. Patrick's Island.
3️⃣ Try a short “sit spot” - find a bench, put your phone away, breathe, and observe.
4️⃣ Look for winter birds like chickadees, nuthatches, and magpies.
5️⃣ Walk along the Bow or Elbow River and enjoy icy patterns and wildlife.
6️⃣ Do a quick night sky check-in - winter stars are unreal.
7️⃣ Explore an easy winter trail in Fish Creek Park or your neighbourhood.
8️⃣ Book a firepit (for free on the City of Calgary website), invite some friends and enjoy some food & drinks over a warm fire!
9️⃣ Bring a small notebook outdoors. Write or sketch what you notice: sights, patterns, feelings, or wildlife.

🌨️ Even a few minutes outdoors can boost mood, energy, and connection.

What's your favourite winter nature activity? ⬇️✨

As daylight hours shrink, it’s natural to feel your energy shift - but nature is still one of the best ways to care for your mental well-being. 🌅

Here are a few ways to stay grounded through the darker months:
✨ Get outside daily, even for a short walk
🌲 Embrace winter activities that make you feel alive
💡 Catch daylight when you can - it really helps your mood
🧠 Stay socially connected
🧣 Slow down and rest intentionally

The outdoors doesn’t close for winter - it just looks a little different. Bundle up, breathe deeply, and take time to notice the beauty of the new season. ✨️