a woman looking out towards the city with binoculars while a man walks by in the snow

There’s a Winter Microadventure for Everyone

You can still get out there, even on short winter days.

Published January 18, 2024

Updated February 8, 2024

The days are getting shorter and the temperatures are dropping, but that doesn’t mean there isn’t time to capitalize on those post-work hours. Microadventures can fit into your busy workweek, injecting novelty into daily life and breaking up routines. But we get it: sometimes coming up with an idea for a microadventure is the hardest part. So we partnered with L.L.Bean to round up a list of fun outings and essential gear for all of the adventurers in your life, from the extreme hiker to the cozy culture aficionado — there’s something here for everyone.

See Every Sunset for a Week

sunset peeking over hill beaming at houses and porch

Winter sunsets come early but can be extra spectacular: there’s nothing quite like the pink of final rays painting the underside of high clouds, and ice crystals in the air can lead to sundogs, a spectacular halo around the sun that’s a winter-only phenomenon. Look up sunset times (they might be earlier than you think!) and every day for a week, set yourself an alarm so you won’t miss it. We recommend getting outside for the view if you can, even if it’s only for a few minutes. To help you brave the cold, we recommend L.L.Bean’s Mountain Classic Colorblock Down Parka (men’s $199; women’s $159), which has a warm hood and long cut to keep you snug from head to tail.

Try Out a New Trail or Walking Route

south and north sign planted in snow ground

With short days, sometimes the best time to get outside is before work begins. But early-morning wakeups can be difficult to rally for. To give you the motivation you need, try out a new trail or path — one you’ve had your eyes on for a while but never got around to over the summer, or a neighborhood you’ve always wanted to explore. And to make the chill a little less daunting, slip into some extra cozy footwear: we like L.L.Bean’s Day Venture Insulated Lace-Up Boots ($139).

Go Somewhere in Your Town that You’ve Never Been

a man with his arm around a woman walking through city street

Who says an adventure can’t be a cultural one? Sometimes, the best way to spend a winter’s eve is wrapped up in the cozy hubbub of the indoors. This is your opportunity to try out that gallery, museum or restaurant you’ve always been curious about. Throw on one of L.L.Bean’s warm and stylish Scotch Plaid Flannel Shirts (men’s $60; women’s $70) and head out on the town.

Tag a Full-Moon Summit

two hikers looking over cliff at a full moon

Long nights don’t have to put a stop to after-work efforts. When the full moon comes around, grab your headlamp and L.L.Bean’s Elevation Insulated Hiking Boots (men’s $179; women’s $139) and head for your local peak for the best nighttime views. Don’t live near mountains? Set a different objective, like hiking a forested trail to a clearing or field where the celestial views are unobstructed. Cold air makes for clearer skies and better stargazing, too. Just make sure to be prepared for winter conditions and dress accordingly!

Make an Elaborate Dinner in Your Pajamas

Take your palate on a journey without leaving home by spending an evening trying out a new recipe. Go big by taking on a cuisine you’ve only ever sampled at restaurants, and make the evening extra-fun by doing it all in your pajamas. For max coziness, we love L.L.Bean’s Bonded Waffle Fleece Hooded Robe ($129), with sweatshirt-like cuffs that will help you keep your sleeves clean while you whip up your culinary masterpiece.