As you gather with family and friends this holiday season, Roanoke Outside and the Roanoke Regional Partnership wanted to share a few ideas to keep you engaged with the outdoors - even if it means bringing the "outside" inside.
- Remember those less fortunate than yourself. Stop by your nearest mall and adopt an angel from the Angel Tree. You'll get a "wish list" from a local boy or girl. Fulfill their list and be sure to add something that will encourage them to get outside.
- Love dogs? This Sunday (12/19, 9:30am) the Blue Ridge Bloodhounds will be training dogs at Patrick Henry High School. It's pretty amazing to watch these dogs in action. Who knows, maybe you'll get to hide and they'll sniff you out.
- If it snows, rent some cross country skis and go explore the Blue Ridge Parkway. The Parkway is at a higher elevation (so it gets more snow) and is typically closed to cars when we get a decent snowfall.
- If you like winter sports but don't like the cold, then head to the Roanoke Civic Center for some ice skating.
- As you scramble for last minute gifts be sure to peruse our Christmas wish list that highlights local businesses (view our complete list of outdoor stores organized by activity).
- Choose a hike you've never done before and work off those extra pounds you're sure to pack on.
Whatever you do this holiday season we wish you the happiest of times!
