Winter is no doubt a fun time to get outside. Skiing, snowshoeing, and winter hiking are some of the best ways to spend a cold, snowy day. But even as an outdoor enthusiast, you may appreciate the way winter makes you enjoy the indoors , too. For those who want to spend every free hour of daylight outdoors, winter is a good reminder to rest. And what better way to rest in the winter than cozied up by the fire with a good, outdoorsy book?
From poetic nature writing to spooky campfire stories, epic journeys to hilarious misadventures, we’ve got you covered with the best outdoor books to read this winter. Whether you’re looking to stock your own shelf or you’re shopping for the perfect holiday gift, you’ll find it all with these eight can’t-put-down outdoorsy books.
1. Teewinot: Climbing and Contemplating the Teton Range by Jack Turner
Any climber, hiker, or outdoor enthusiast lucky enough to see the Teton Mountains in Wyoming knows what a spectacular sight it is. Some of the most dramatic peaks in the world, describing these mountains with words isn’t easy — but Jack Turner does a fantastic job in Teewinot. As an elite Exum Mountain climbing guide, Turner’s career let him witness the power of these mountains on a daily basis. As a result, he experienced a lot of awe and beauty — but also tragedy. Teewinot is a beautifully written ode to one majestic mountain range and the people, plants, and animals that call the area home.
2. The Hour of Land: A Personal Topography of America’s National Parks by Terry Tempest Williams
Avid readers of nature writing are surely familiar with the work of Terry Tempest Williams. As an author and activist living in the American West, Williams writes about the natural world and its intersections with culture, politics, religion, and more. In The Hour of Land, Williams explores a different national park — from the lens of her own experience — in each chapter. From exploring remote wilderness in Gates of the Arctic to barely escaping a wildfire in Glacier, Williams’ stories are both riveting and thought-provoking. Plus, they’ll have you packing your bags for the closest national park before you’ve even finished the book.
3. The Emerald Mile: The Epic Story of the Fastest Ride in History Through the Heart of the Grand Canyon by Kevin Fedarko
Whether or not you’ve had the opportunity to see the great Colorado River as it carves its way through the vast Grand Canyon, you’ll appreciate this epic tale. Part fascinating history, part adventure story, The Emerald Mile chronicles the attempt — in a wooden dory, no less — at the fastest run down the Colorado River ever. If that weren’t intriguing enough, this legendary, true story takes place amid the unprecedented flooding and potential ensuing catastrophe at the Glen Canyon Dam in 1983.
4. Death in Yellowstone: Accidents and Foolhardiness in the First National Park by Lee H. Whittlesey
If you’ve ever wondered how many ways there are to kick the bucket in Yellowstone National Park, the answer is… a lot. From hot springs to falling rocks to animal attacks and everything in between, Yellowstone can be a dangerous place. Whether you’re a sucker for spooky stories or you simply want to know what not to do when visiting the world’s first national park, Death in Yellowstone will keep you informed and entertained for nearly 300 pages.
Death in Yellowstone on Amazon
5. Where the Deer and the Antelope Play: The Pastoral Observations of One Ignorant American Who Likes to Walk Outside by Nick Offerman
If you know and love Nick Offerman from his role on Parks and Recreation, it’s time to get to know him as an outdoor enthusiast and author, too. As you’d expect from the actor and comedian, Offerman’s writing is both entertaining and funny. But it’s also an educational and refreshing book about the author’s relationship with nature. Based on three memorable trips — one to Glacier National Park, one to the English countryside, and one Covid-era cross-country road trip — Where the Deer and the Antelope Play is a must-read for fans of Offerman and the outdoors alike.
Where the Deer and the Antelope Play on Amazon
6. Braiding Sweetgrass: Indigenous Wisdom, Scientific Knowledge, and the Teachings of Plants by Robin Wall Kimmerer
Author Robin Wall Kimmerer — botanist, mother, and enrolled member of the Citizen Potawatomi Nation — explores how both science and indigenous wisdom can help us recognize the diversity and interconnectedness of the living world. With snippets of history, childhood memories, moments of motherhood, and her experiences teaching, Kimmerer emphasizes the importance of redefining our relationship with nature and how doing so is integral to the health of our planet. Braiding Sweetgrass is a beautiful, soul-nourishing read that’ll have you reconsidering the way you see nature.
7. Winterdance: The Fine Madness of Running the Iditarod by Gary Paulsen
If you want a book that makes you laugh out loud, Gary Paulsen’s Winterdance will deliver. The book tells of Paulsen’s questionable decision to run the Iditarod — a roughly 1,000-mile sled dog race across frigid, wild Alaska. You’ll find yourself questioning Paulsen’s sanity as he confronts moose, skunks, and far worse while training in Minnesota and running the race through the Alaskan Interior. This is a book you’ll want to share with your friends, so bring home an extra copy or two.
8. Two in the Far North by Margaret E. Murie
If you’re not yet familiar with the life of Margaret (Mardy) Murie, you’ll be glad you picked up this book. Known lovingly as the “Grandmother of Conservation,” Mardy Murie moved to Alaska as a young girl, quickly fell in love with the land and people, then went on to protect major swaths of Alaskan wilderness later in life. Two in the Far North is a memoir, a love story, and an ode to Alaska and wilderness. It’s chock-full of inspiration, awe, and good old-fashioned storytelling from this beloved author and conservationist.
Two in the Far North on Amazon
Crack Open a Great Outdoorsy Book This Winter
Between your winter walks, ski laps, and snowshoe adventures, curl up with a mug of hot cocoa and one (or more) of these books. Before you get snowed in, head to your local bookstore or library and stock up for a restful day next to the fire. Trust us, you’ll be glad you did.
Help us improve this list by letting us know your favorite outdoorsy books for cozy winter reading. Drop your recommendations in the comments below, and happy reading!
