There may be freezing temperatures outside, you don't have to sit indoors all day. Sure, sipping hot cocoa by the fire is fun, but so is any number of outdoor activities. So, layer up, grab your cap and gloves, and head for the snow. Here are a few suggestions to help you get some fresh air and plenty of exercise.

1. Ice Skate - Burn 407 calories per hour

Whether it's an indoor rink or frozen pond, ice skating can make for a fun family trip or a perfect first date. If you find yourself skating circles around everyone else, consider joining a local ice hockey league that can lead into deck hock in the spring. If you skate at a rate of more than nine mile per hour, you can burn an additional 116 calories.

2. Snow Shoe - Burn 465 calories per hour

Love hiking but have trouble trudging through the snow during the winter? Then it's time you give snowshoeing a try. All you'll need is a set of snowshoes, some winter clothing, water and some snacks before setting out on a winter's version of walking in the woods.

3. Cross-Country Ski - Burn 523 calories per hour

A great workout and exciting expedition, cross-country skiing is a fun way to explore the great outdoors during the winter months. Renting or borrowing a pair of cross-country skis is a good idea for beginners trying out the sport. Like alpine skiing, it's a good idea to start slow and take lessons the first time out. If you keep a pace over five miles an hour, you'll burn 523 calories. If you step up the pace to eight, you'll burn off 814 per hour.

4. Sledding - Burn 407 calories per hour

A favorite amongst the kids, adults will also have a blast if they choose to join in on the fun. Sledding is fitness disguised as fun. Hiking up hill, through the snow provides an aerobic workout amidst all of the laughter. An inexpensive sled, warm clothes, and a steep hill is all you need to have an action-packed afternoon.

5. Build a Snowman - Burn 349 calories per hour

Round up the family, friends, and the entire neighborhood for a snowman building competition. It's not enough to just build one. Challenge everyone to construct the most creative or biggest snowman possible. Don't forget to decorate and dress-up the snowmen before voting on who has won the snowman building title. When you're shoveling up that snow to build Frosty, you'll be burning that 349 calories we mentioned.

6. Alpine Skiing - Burn 349 calories per hour

Last, but certainly not least, alpine skiing is what has some people looking forward to winter throughout the entire year. Unlike the other winter activities listed, this one is a bit more cumbersome, requiring the right equipment and some practice to get things underway. Even then, planning a trip to a ski destination, travel, and a lift-ticket can come with a hefty price tag. But, once you are speeding down the side of the mountain, all the planning and practice is worthwhile. If you're skiing with moderate effort, you'll burn 349 calories. If you're a more experienced skier, take it up a notch and burn 465 calories.

*All calorie burns are based on a 140 pound woman.