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Outdoor Winter Activities in the Council Bluffs Area

Ready to make the most of winter? Hit the slopes, snowshoe through the Loess Hills, reel in a big catch, and explore the great outdoors. Your next winter adventure starts in the Council Bluffs area! Browse our hotel options and book your winter getaway today!

Come for the carve stay for the comfort

Fun at Mt. Crescent Ski Area
@kjvalborg at Crescent Hill

Hit the Slopes at Crescent Hill

Nestled in the stunning Loess Hills, Crescent Hill at Hitchcock is your go-to spot for a thrilling winter adventure. Skiing and snowboarding enthusiasts will love the well-groomed trails and panoramic views that make every run unforgettable.

Amenities Include:

  • Two-person and four-person chairlifts
  • Gear rentals for snowboarding and skiing
  • Private ski and snowboarding lessons
  • Special events throughout the season

Hit the slopes for an action-packed day! For more details on hours, pricing, and the latest updates, check out the Crescent Hill website.

Snowshoe Through Nature’s Winter Wonderland

Snowshoe Hiking at Hitchcock Nature Center
@abrown1107 at Hitchcock Nature Center

Hitchcock Nature Center offers snowshoe rentals so you can enjoy the crisp air and stunning scenery at your own pace. And if you're looking for even more trails to explore, check out the Wabash Trace Nature Trail for a snowy adventure of your own!

Find Hotels Near Winter Beauty

Reel in the Season with Ice Fishing Hotspots

If you love the peaceful rhythm of winter and the thrill of a good catch, ice fishing is a perfect way to spend a chilly day outdoors. Lake Manawa State Park and Big Lake Park offer plenty of space for anglers to set up and enjoy the calm of the frozen lake, while Arrowhead Park in Neola is also a popular spot once ice conditions are safe.

Glide at the Skate Ribbon on Omaha's Riverfront

Want to feel the wind in your hair as you glide across the ice? Head over to Heartland of America Park on the Omaha Riverfront, where you can skate on the Skate Ribbon—a unique, winding outdoor ice rink. The park’s newly renovated space is the perfect backdrop for some winter fun.

Elk at Botna Bend Park

Book a Hotel Near the Riverfront

Visit the Elk & Bison at Botna Bend

Winter is the perfect time to visit the elk and bison at Botna Bend Park—there’s something truly magical about seeing these majestic animals roaming freely in the snow.

Keep the Adventure Going

After a day of exploring all that Council Bluffs has to offer, unwind with a relaxing stay in one of our local hotels. Browse and book your hotel today for a comfortable retreat after a day full of fun!

Discover art and entertainments

Shred Crescent Hill

Experience date night

Ignite family memories

Explore indoor thrills

 Travel Iowa!

Council Bluffs is the western gateway to the great state of Iowa. To see what else Iowa has to offer, use the Build a Trip tool on Travel Iowa's website and start planning your personalized Iowa road trip today!

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