Friends Night

Snow Tubing Run with a Thermos of Spiked Hot Chocolate

Snow tubing with friends is the ultimate winter activity that doesn't require skiing skills or expensive gear. Hit the slopes, race down tubing-only lanes, and warm up with spiked hot chocolate—a playful friends night idea that works for any skill level. This friends night idea is perfect for an outdoor adventure. You don't need to ski to have a genuinely great time on a snowy hill.

playfuladventuroussocialnostalgic

$25–$503 hrsOutdoorsActiveSmall Group

What it's about

Most ski resorts and winter parks have tubing-only lanes that require zero skill and have a lift back up. You just go fast, laugh a lot, and pretend you're ten again. It's about as group-friendly as outdoor winter activities get—no experience required, no gear to rent beyond the tube itself. The thermos situation at the bottom is non-negotiable.

Why it works

It's genuinely fun for everyone regardless of fitness level or outdoor experience, which makes it unusually inclusive for an active outdoor activity. The shared silliness of just flying down a hill on a tube is a great equalizer. People leave tired in the good way.

What to expect

Tubing sessions are usually 1.5-2 hours long and cost $25-45 per person. Lift lines can get long on weekends, so book weekdays or early sessions if possible. It's cold—dress accordingly and actually wear layers. Some venues serve food on-site; others don't, so plan your post-run food stop ahead of time.

How to set it up

01
Find a tubing park within a reasonable drive—most ski resorts have them, and some standalone parks exist. Book tickets online in advance.
02
Confirm the session time and check if tubes are included or rented separately.
03
Make a big thermos of hot chocolate at home and add whiskey, rum, or Baileys—keep it in a bag to pull out between runs.
04
Layer up: base layer, mid layer, waterproof outer layer, warm gloves, and a hat. Bring hand warmers for good measure.
05
Carpool and agree on who's driving (no thermos for them, unfortunately).
06
Book a table or pickup somewhere on the way home—everyone will be starving and in a great mood.

Best seasons

Winter

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Budget: $25–$50

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Before you start

Do you need skiing experience for snow tubing?

No experience required. Tubing-only lanes at ski resorts are designed for beginners and families. You simply sit, hold on, and enjoy the ride down—the lift brings you back up automatically.

How much does snow tubing cost?

Most tubing parks charge $25–$50 per person for a session, which typically includes tube rental and multiple runs. Some resorts offer discounts for groups, so call ahead to ask about deals.

Is snow tubing good for a group activity?

Absolutely. Tubing is one of the most social winter activities—everyone races independently but can cheer each other on, and the lift lines give you time to chat. It requires no special skills, making it inclusive for mixed-ability groups.