Top Winter Wonderlands for Your Next Vacation

The weather might be warming up out there, but that doesn’t mean you can’t start planning your next winter trip. By the time the snow starts flying, hopefully just about all of the country will be back to normal, and we will be able to truly enjoy ourselves. When it comes to winter vacations, you want to choose a place that will fulfill everything on your personal winter fun checklist. Here is a list of the top Winter Wonderland destinations for you next cold-season vacation. 

Breckenridge

In what used to be a town known for gold mining, you can now find some of the best skiing in the country. Not only that, but Breckenridge, Colorado is a prime destination for those who are looking for a place to use snowboards and other winter toys. Breckenridge Ski Resort is one of the most popular in the country, and for good reasons. They’ve taken every effort to make it a destination for everyone. There are clearly marked trials and hills for beginners, and every skill level in between. 

The town itself is bursting with charm. It still has many of its 19th century buildings, and you can stroll among them while choosing a restaurant or just while out exploring. Aside from Breckenridge resort, there are many other winter playgrounds nearby for you to visit if you want some variety while on your trip. 

Park City

Park City, Utah boasts one of the most popular ski resorts in the U.S. Park City resort hosted the Olympic alpine skiing events, and gained international fame for its picturesque streets that showed up on everyone’s television screens. Families and new skiers are more than welcome in Park City, despite its professional pedigree. The villages that surround the resort have loads of things to see and do, from shopping, to dining and museums. You can stay on the hill, in the village at a hotel, or rent a cabin in Park City for a more private and quiet experience. 

Park City was not only home to skiing during the 2002 Olympic games. It was also the host of the bobsled and luge events. Ever wonder what it’s like hurtling down the chute in a bobsled? Now you can find out! There is danger involved, and only those over 16 years and 100 pounds are able to ride, but you will have thrilling stories to tell about your experience. 

Alaska

If you are looking for something a little more exotic and remote, then Alaska may be just the place for you. It might take a while to get there, but it will be worth it. Enjoy the clean and crisp air while you try out a dog sledding course and mush your way around the frozen countryside. If you head there in March, you can check out the world famous Iditarod, a dog sled race that brings the best from around the globe. If you are ready for a little extra adventure, hop on a helicopter and head up to a glacier. It will no doubt be a trip of a lifetime. 

Vermont

If downhill skiing isn’t for you, maybe cross country is? Vermont is a top cross country skiing destination for those who like to stay horizontal when they are on their skis. You can tour through the beautiful landscapes of Killington or Burlington. There are trails all over the area, so there is certainly something for all experience levels. Vermont is well-known for its wooded beauty, and there’s no better way to experience it than while you are gliding through the snow on a crisp winter day. 

Yellowstone Park

Yellowstone Park is known for a lot of things, but there is no better time to experience it than during the winter months. The park roads get closed off to traffic, meaning that you can ski or snowmobile all over the park. You can also get guided snowcoach tours. A snowcoach is a large, van-like vehicle with outside tires with special tread for driving on snow and ice. One of the most amazing things to see is the famous geysers steaming away in the cold weather. Yes, it will be cold, but it is a stunning experience. Plus, right nearby is Jackson Hole ski resort, making Yellowstone a true all around winter experience. 

The winter doesn’t have to be a season of dreary cold and ice. There’s no reason to lock yourself in your home, only to come out to shovel your walk. Make the most of the cold weather and snow and head to a winter destination. You can have the trip of a lifetime, and you don’t even have to leave the United States. Choose one of these amazing destinations, or find one of your own. There is no doubt something for every winter lover in your family.