Here are some of the best cold weather destinations that you can take the family AND some outdoor activities that will leave you wanting to rest up by the fire later on.
Burlington, Vermont
Do you know those cheesy Hallmark Christmas movies where two people start hating one another and end up finding the spirit of the holiday in a quaint, cozy town where they eventually fall in love?
Well, this is it.
Although I can’t promise you’ll find your soulmate here — this city is a gem of the east coast of New England. It becomes a winter wonderland during the colder months, hosting many visitors looking to connect with nature.
✓ Strap on some ice skates at Burlington Rinks
✓ Hike along frozen Lake Champlain on the 8-mile path
✓ Try skiing or snowboarding on Mount Mansfield or Spruce Peak
✓ Head to Champlain’s Finney Quad to go sledding
✓ Go on a backcountry Snowmobile tour in Stowe
✓ Stroll along Church Street Marketplace for some window shopping
This really is the quintessential spot for anyone looking for a little small-town charm with a big backyard for winter activities.
Maybe you’ve never seen snow, don’t get snow where you live, or simply want more. No matter your reason for dreaming of an icy getaway — make sure you take time to strap on your boots and get moving.
Whistler, Canada
North America’s largest ski resort. Over 200 marked runs spanning over two side-by-side mountains.
✓ Ski & Snowboarding Whistler Blackcomb
✓Cross-country skiing for all levels all miles of beautiful trails
✓Ice Fishing guided by local experts
✓Hiking with snowshoes through the breathtaking scenery
✓Ice Skating under the lights in Whistler Village
✓ Tube Park fun with friends
Park City, Utah
Perhaps this name sounds familiar? It should! Park City hosted the 2002 Olympics at Utah Olympic Park and still acts as a training facility for athletes all over the world.
But that’s not all…
When I say stunning, I mean stunning. Park City sits on the back end of the Wasatch Mountains, which is a part of the 3,000-mile-long stretch of the Rocky Mountains. This kind of rustic landscape makes winter activities an absolute must!
✓ Cross Country Ski at Wasatch Mountain State Park
✓ Ride a tube down your favorite slope at Gorgoza Park
✓ Try Snow Biking (yup, that’s a real thing) at Swaner Nature Preserve
✓ Go on a dog sledding adventure with a crew of Huskies
✓ Stroll down Main Street and check out historic architecture
And the most unique option…
✓ Yoga Paddleboarding in a Geothermal Crater
I think it’s safe to say that most people haven’t experienced all of the things on this list — and this is quite the list! You’ll have so much fun trying out these unique and exciting outdoor options.
Fairbanks, Alaska
This one is a real treat — and the ultimate destination for winter adventurers in the wild mountains of the north.
Fairbanks is the second largest city in Alaska that sits on the 100-mile-long Chena River. It is a popular destination for people to see the northern lights and experience a raw view of the uncharted wilderness.
✓ Go for a dip in the Chena Hot Springs
✓ Brag about your next catch with some Salmon Fishing
✓ Try traditional dog mushing in the Chena River Valley
✓ Stroll the grounds at a local ranch and pet some reindeer
✓ Hike one of the many trails (and bring your camera!)
✓ Climb Murphy’s Dome and get a peak of the White Mountains
You’re really not going to experience the great outdoors like you can in Alaska. Just make sure to take a trip to get some good snow gear before you leave!
Live Adventurously
Travel comes in all shapes and forms — and these destinations are perfect for bundling up and embarking on snow-covered voyages.
If you are the active type, there are LOTS of options to get moving. Not to mention many different levels of challenge based on who you are with.
So book those cold weather destinations! See. Explore. Do.