“Snowboards are not just pieces of wood, steel, and fiberglass. They are tools of escape. A medium for personal expression. A way to challenge fears, push limits, and share incredible experiences with your friends.” Shred Stuff

There are a lot of reasons why I think snowboarding is one of the best ways to spend a winter vacation, but, since you probably don’t want me to ramble on like Shakespeare about powder and mountains, I made this list.

Winter Sport

Ah, winter, what a lovely time of year, when walking down the sidewalk could be considered an extreme sport. When the snow starts falling, I know I can say goodbye to long strolls in the park, outdoor basketball, tennis, volleyball, swimming, or basically any great exercise that doesn’t require a gym membership or shoveling snow. Riding a snowboard surrounded by mountain views beats both of those 100% of the time.

Beautiful Scenery

Since snowboarding requires a mountain and snow, you can guarantee that anywhere you go, you are going to have a great view and fresh air. Being in the mountains is not just beautiful, but it’s good for you. Research indicates spending time in nature is a mood booster. Combine that with exercise, and you’ve got a recipe for a great day.

Challenge

Johnny Depp said, “I like the challenge of trying different things and wondering whether it’s going to work or whether I’m going to fall flat on my face.” I’d bet Captain Jack Sparrow a chest of pirate gold that he would love snowboarding just like I do. Trying new things and challenging yourself is essential to growing as a person, and whether you’re a beginner like me or an Olympic athlete, there’s always a challenge when it comes to snowboarding.

Group or Solo Sport

Snowboarding is one of the best ways to spend a family vacation. You can go out as a group and enjoy the day together, or, if someone is tired or wants to try other trails, you can just as easily go out on your own and reconvene in the evening. Bonus: when you’re all sitting around the fire after a long day of snowboarding, you can talk about all of your adventures out on the trail!

Beginner or Expert

Sometimes, sports are only fun when you’ve reached a level of mastery, especially when going out as a group. Snowboarding is great in the fact that it can scale. New to the sport? Do your “falling leaf” down a green trail. Old hand? Shred some of the blue or black trails for a more appropriate level! Either way, you’re still snowboarding, you’re still outside, and you’re still getting great exercise.

What are some reasons why you love snowboarding? Comment below and let us know!