Winter is the perfect time for leisure travel. From skiing to snowmobiling to sitting in front of a crackling fire watching the flakes fall, your cup of hot chocolate runneth over. But with so many places to go, how do you choose the right location?
It really comes down to what you’re after. While some people can’t wait to dive into winter activities, others would rather trade their ski poles for hiking poles. Regardless of what you’re looking for, there are certain winter spots known for offering a spectacular time, including the following:
Lake Tahoe
Located on the border of California and Nevada, Lake Tahoe is well-regarded as one of the coziest winter hubs in the nation. It’s especially ideal for those who enjoy skiing and other snow sports, but balk at the idea of frozen faces and numb toes. While the area gets plenty of snow, the daytime temperatures are relatively mild and tend to linger in the 40s. If you’re interested in hitting the slots after the slopes, the Nevada side of Lake Tahoe is home to several casinos.
Jackson Hole
Don’t let anyone tell you that Wyoming isn’t cool! Jackson Hole, located in a valley on the western side of the state, is a haven for winter sports, snow bunnies, adrenaline junkies, and celebrities. It offers the obligatory skiing and snowboarding, of course, but it’s also the perfect spot to think a little outside the boots. You can visit Grand Teton National Park on a guided tour or go for a dip in the Granite Hot Springs. With famously frigid temperatures throughout the region, the latter might be especially appealing.
St. George Utah
If you’re looking to elude Mother Nature’s mood swings and get far away from snowy weather, St. George is an easily accessible reprieve. It’s located nine hours from Denver, four hours from Salt Lake City, and two hours from Las Vegas. The city embraces a desert-like climate, which means winter temps typically stay above 50 during the day. Take a short, 45-mile drive to Zion National Park for some hiking, biking, or sightseeing. You may also stay closer to town and explore Snow Canyon State Park, a park that (ironically) rarely sees precipitation.
Crested Butte
If you’re planning a ski trip, Colorado offers a plethora of resorts to choose from. However, Crested Butte stands out for a few reasons, including its versatile terrain that varies from beginner-friendly to expert-only. The crowds, or lack thereof, also provide an edge. Unlike the resorts closer to Denver, Crested Butte rarely has lines. Unless you visit on a holiday, it’s an excellent option for enjoying powder while avoiding people.
Honolulu, Hawaii
The Earth might insist on rotating around the sun, but that doesn’t mean summer weather has to end! Hawaii is in the tropics, which is why temperatures tend to stay consistent throughout the year. If you’re tired of cranking the thermostat and wearing seven layers of sweaters, the Aloha State is a great escape. While it’s hard to go wrong visiting anywhere in Hawaii, Honolulu has something for everyone, including waterfall hikes, sunset cruises, snorkeling, and Pearl Harbor.
For some, winter is a fabulous time to explore nature’s wonderland; for others, it’s an acquired taste. Whether you’re after snowfall or sunshine, the only way to go wrong with these destinations is by not going at all.
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