Just because the sun sets earlier in the winter, doesn’t mean there isn’t plenty of time to get out with your family for fun, safe activities. This year in particular, as COVID-19 infections continue to climb, it is smart to plan safe outdoor activities where respiratory illnesses including the common cold, flu, and coronavirus are far less transmissible. Here are 7 ideas for safe and fun activities our team ABQ Pediatric Dentistry enjoys with their own families in the winter.
Hiking
The surrounding hills and mountains are an excellent way to create lasting family memories. Even better? You and your children will be exposed to healthy Vitamin D from the sun, plenty of fresh air, and get terrific exercise. Some of the many family-friendly hiking trails in and around Albuquerque include:
- Volcanoes Trail , Boca Negra Trail, and Rinconada Canyon Trail at the Petroglyph National Monument
- Alameda Bosque Trail
- Lincoln National Forest’s La Posada Encantada Trail
- White Sands National Park’s Interdune Boardwalk Path
- El Morro National Park’s Inscription Trail
- Bitter Lake National Wildlife Refuge's Butterfly Trail
Biking
Biking outdoors in the winter offers the benefits of fewer people and moderate temperatures. Bike paths that are especially great for families include:
- Paseo del Bosque Bike Trail
- Mariposa Basin Park
- Alameda-Rio Grande Wetland
- Bear Canyon Bicycle/Pedestrian Bridge
Skiing and Snowboarding
Just minutes from downtown Albuquerque, Sandia Peak snow trails are generally open through mid-March and offer more than 25 miles of skiing and snowboarding. Lessons are available for children over the age of four at Cubby Corner at Sandia Peak. For children who don’t ski or snowboard, a ride on the tramway provides beautiful views of the city, and many walking trails provide excellent views from high above the city.
Snow Play
If we’re lucky to get snow, the Capulin Snow Play Site offers sledding, tubing, and playing in the snow. Entrance to the Capulin Snow Play Site is just $3 per vehicle. Young children need to be accompanied and monitored by an adult. No metal or wooden sleds, skis, or snowboards are allowed.
UNM Duck Pond
If you don’t have a lot of time, but want to get out with the kids, consider a visit to the UNM duck pond. Located in the heart of the city, the UNM duck pond offers plenty of green space to run and play, and it’s free for the whole family to enjoy.
Rio Grande Nature Center State Park
The Rio Grande State Nature Park offers hours of safe, fun, outdoor activities that children and adults of all ages are sure to love. Encompassing more than 35 acres, this wildlife preserve offers excellent birdwatching, hiking, and picnic spots for families to enjoy year-round.
ABQ BioPark
The ABQ BioPark is a true gem for families. The BioPark includes the Zoo, Botanic Gardens, and Aquarium, and Tingley Beach. The BioPark is open year-round and offers hours of safe, family fun in Albuquerque. To ensure safety, and plenty of space for all visitors, the ABQ BioPark offers timed ticketing each day.
Oral Health is Essential for Children’s Health
Maintaining healthy teeth and gums is an essential part of overall health for children, tweens, and teens. At ABQ Pediatric, we provide complete pediatric dentistry, including special needs pediatric dentistry, interceptive orthodontics, emergency dental care, and sedation dentistry for children who are afraid of going to the dentist. To keep your child’s mouth and smile healthy and beautiful, contact ABQ Pediatric Dentistry at 505-888-3520 or request an appointment online.