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Outdoor Winter Activities in the Council Bluffs Area

The winter landscape offers breathtaking views and unforgettable one-of-a-kind experiences in the Council Bluffs area. Begin planning your next winter adventure by checking out our list of outdoor winter activities to enjoy in or around Council Bluffs.

After a long day exploring the outdoors, unwind with a relaxing stay in a Council Bluffs hotel. Click on our hotel options to browse and book today!

Hit the Slopes at Mt. Crescent Ski Area

j_dorton
@j_dorton on Instagram

Nestled in the picturesque Loess Hills of Pottawattamie County, Mt. Crescent Ski Area offers an exhilarating winter wonderland for skiing and snowboarding enthusiasts. With its well-groomed slopes and breathtaking views, this destination provides a perfect escape for families seeking outdoor adventure! For hours and pricing information, visit Mt. Crescent's website. 

Amenities: 

  • Private group ski and snowboarding lessons 
  • Lodge with Mountian Cafe & Bar
  • Two-person and four-person chairlifts
  • Gear rental 
  • Special events 

Snowshoeing in the Metro

shoe

Enjoy the brisk winter breeze and stunning views as you snowshoe throughout the metro! Snowshoes can be rented at Hitchcock Nature Center and Fontenelle Forest so that you can take to the trails for an unforgettable and peaceful experience. Have your own gear? Check out the Wabash Trace Nature Trail!

Hitchcock Nature Center Rentals:

  • $6 per day
  • Available first-come first-served during regular winter gallery hours
  • Must be a minimum of four to six inches of snow
  • Visit Pottawattamie Conservation’s website for more information

Fontenelle Forest Rentals:

Check out the Skate Ribbon on Omaha's Riverfront! 

Omaha Riverfront ice skating ribbon

Experience outdoor ice skating at the newly renovated Heartland of America Park on the Omaha Riverfront! The skate ribbon offers skate rentals for $5 for adults, and $4 for children. Visit the Heartland of America Park website for online reservations, hours of operation, and the skating waiver. 

Visit the Elk & Bison at Botna Bend

bison

You can visit the elk and bison and Botna Bend any time of the year, but there's something magical about watching the majestic animals prance and frolic in the snow. Be sure to come back in the spring — that's when the calves are born!

Admission to Botna Bend Park is $3 per vehicle. You may pay with exact change or check at the park gate.

The Fun Doesn't Stop There!

After a long day uncovering all that Council Bluffs metro offers, unwind with a relaxing stay in a Council Bluffs hotel. Click on our hotel options to browse and book today! 

There's so much more fun to have in the Council Bluffs area this winter! Unearth a special day by learning about our indoor activities and upcoming events.

Let us show you around. Explore our visitor guide
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Council Bluffs, IA 51501
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