Winter Wonderland in Winnipeg

Winnipeg has once again lived up to it's name of the coldest city in Canada. With lows dipping past the minus 40 mark this week, some fellow Winnipeggers have found it difficult to find the motivation to leave the comfort of their own home.

I, however, have worn my not-overly padded leather jacket and high heels all week long. Why, this crazy behaviour, you ask is taking place? For no other reason than, the love I have for my city and cute shoes.

It really frustrates me when I speak to people that repeatedly exclaim how they "hate Winnipeg", "would trade the snow for a beach", and my least favorite, "Winnipeg sucks in the winter". The truth of the matter is not only is Winnipeg one of the most eclectic cities in the country, but is one that offers so much by the means of outdoors to its inhabitants.

You won't catch me walking my dog in my Steve Madden's, or cross-country skiing in a leather jacket. News flash: this just in- You must dress for the beloved outdoor activities that the city offers.

Activities such as skiing, skating, snow-shoeing, winter hiking, and tobogganing are activities that not only warm the hearts of children but adults and teenagers alike.

Here are some of my favorite places to keep warm in the winter in Winnipeg, and yes, they all take place outside, so pop on a toque, some mittens and wooly socks.

Cross-country skiing: Birds Hill Park

The Chickadee trail at Birds Hill Park takes just under an hour to complete. The trail offers mild intervals to keep your heart rate up and halfway through, a lookout tower you can climb to take in the gorgeous view of one of Manitoba's most beautiful provincial parks.

Skating: The river trail at the Forks

Just opened to its full length, this is a winter activity no Winnipegger should miss out on. Even though the trail is considerably shorter than the record setting 8.5 kilometers back in 2008, skaters can still enjoy a 3.5 kilometers slide heading south on the Red River all the way to Churchill drive.

Tobogganing: Kildonan Park

The famous hills have been loved by many for years. An additional bonus to choosing this park is there is not only the hill to slide down on a method of choice, be it a toboggan or crazy carpet; it offers cross-country skiing trails as well as skating on the pond.

Tip to really stay cozy: Pack a thermos of baileys and hot chocolate, or if you like something simpler, Southern Comfort will surely warm you up from the inside out.