Yes, it's cold outside. But no, there's no reason to stay indoors. Residents of Utah do, in fact, live in a winter wonderland, and the best way to enjoy a winter wonderland is to step outdoors and ... go skiing or sledding or skating or simply pick up a pair of binoculars and watch birds fly.

The key, of course, is to dress for the activity ... hat, gloves and heavy coat for things like alpine skiing, sleigh riding, snowshoeing and ice fishing. A little lighter clothing will do for ice skating, cross country skiing and bird watching.

So what's on the winter docket?

Skiing/snowboarding. Twelve of Utah's 13 ski areas are open and hauling skiers. More than half of the lifts and runs are open, and more terrain is opening daily. With midweek snow predicted, the last resort, Beaver Mountain, could open by the weekend.

Some shy away from resorts during the holidays, preferring instead to buy a ticket when the crowds are gone.

Utah's resorts have, in recent years, not only added a lot of new lifts to help disperse skiers, but have opted for the far more expensive high-speed lifts that have, in many cases, completely eliminated the long lift lines.

The secret, of course, is to put some of the local knowledge to work ... arrive early and be among the first up the lifts, then ski away from the more popular runs where everyone seems to congregate. Another good time to ski is when everyone is in taking a lunch break, and again in the hours just before the lifts close. Visiting skiers aren't used to the altitude or skiing, so they tire easily and quit early.

For the latest information on ski conditions visit www.skiutah.com.

Cross country skiing. This is a perfect way to enjoy the outdoors. Nordic skiing is nothing more than taking a leisurely walk on the snow with long extensions on the feet.

It's easy, comfortable and something people can do at whatever pace they choose. Because, like walking, it requires movement, attire isn't as bulky or cumbersome as required for skiing or snowboarding.

There are a number of cross country centers spread around the state that control any threat of avalanche and groom a track to make skiing easier.

Centers that were open earlier this week include Snowbasin, Soldier Hollow, Solitude, Sundance and White Pine. Midweek snow could open more. The Ski Utah Web site also lists nordic centers.

For those more interested in a backcountry experience, there are literally thousands of miles of open spaces covered with snow.

Before venturing out, however, it would be wise to check with the Utah Avalanche Center for information on current conditions. The number is 888-999-4019.