7 Outdoor Valentine’s Ideas

If you’re still looking for romantic ideas that involve getting outside, or almost getting outside, here are a few local suggestions.

1. Go For a Hike

Parfrey’s Glen is always a solid choice. In winter, the stone walls hold the cold and the air feels a little quieter than usual. It can be slick out there, so wear ice cleats and take your time.

Wondering what conditions are like? Check our trail report.

2. Have a Campfire

At a park or in your own backyard, there’s nothing quite like a warm fire in winter. Add s’mores and don’t forget the chocolate.

Even in winter, make sure your fire is completely out before you leave.

3. How About a Picnic?

Pack dinner and head to the park. Bring towels to dry off picnic tables that may be wet from melting snow. A quiet overlook, steam rising from a thermos, and a simple meal can be more memorable than a reservation.

Don’t want to cook? Pick up takeout. Local distilleries, wineries, and restaurants would be happy to provide everything you need for a relaxed winter picnic.

Or swing by the grocery store and put together an easy spread. Whatever fits your style.

Here are a few local winery, distillery, brewery & dining suggestions.

4. Go Sledding

If you’re the adventurous type, it might be fast and a little wet. That just makes warming up afterward even better.

Just stay well away from trees and obstacles.

More: About Devil’s Lake’s Sledding Hill.

5. Go Birdwatching

Pack your picnic in the car and head to the Sauk Prairie Dam to look for eagles. Check open water for Trumpeter Swans. Keep an ear out for the first Sandhill Cranes of the season. Check out our Birdwatching info here.

Even sitting out back together watching the feeders can make for a good afternoon.

6. Explore Somewhere New

You don’t need to travel far. Pick a park or nearby state natural area you’ve never visited and go see it for yourself. Sometimes, just stepping onto a trail you haven’t walked before changes the whole day.

Have you checked out these nearby natural areas?

7. Go Skiing

Cross-country conditions vary throughout the season, and natural snow can come and go quickly. Local ski resorts make snow, but conditions still change day to day.

Be sure to check the Wisconsin Snow Report before you head out.

8. Camp in Your Living Room

Not quite outdoors, but close.

Set up a tent in the living room. Surround it with houseplants. Pull up nature sounds on YouTube. Make simple camp-style food in the kitchen, or order out.

You won’t need heavy blankets. Tents get surprisingly warm indoors. We know from experience.

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Whatever you choose this Valentine’s Day, have fun and be safe out there.