Best underrated winter holiday vacation destinations
Skip the crowds and high price tags this winter
Want to stroll frosty mountain towns, cozy up fireside at a remote lodge, or hit those powdery slopes? Sure, you could go to your tried-and-true favorites, but we suggest trying out some of these wintertime gems instead—all of which offer winter wonderland appeal—minus the expense (and the crowds).
McCall's pristine alpine scenery and abundance of outdoor winter activities.
Snowmobiling to Burgdorf Hot Springs, where visitors can soak in natural geothermal pools surrounded by snowy wilderness.
McCall Winter Carnival, featuring intricate ice sculptures, parades, and festive events that transform the town into a magical winter wonderland.
Okanagan Valley’s stunning winter landscapes and world-class wineries.
Ice wine harvesting, where visitors can participate in picking frozen grapes for this specialty dessert wine.
Big White Ski Resort, offering champagne powder snow, diverse terrain for all skill levels, and a charming ski-in/ski-out village.
The pristine alpine scenery and abundance of snow activities, just hours from sunny Southern California beaches.
Nighttime glow tubing at Big Bear Snow Play, where illuminated runs create a magical after-dark experience.
Big Bear Alpine Zoo, home to rescued alpine animals including bears, mountain lions, and snow leopards.
The blend of rugged mountain adventures, the charming Old West, and small-town hospitality.
Riding the historic Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad through snow-covered canyons.
Mesa Verde National Park, where ancient cliff dwellings take on an ethereal quality when dusted with snow.
Its excellent skiing and snowboarding opportunities in the Southeast.
Night skiing, where illuminated slopes offer a thrilling after-dark experience.
Sugar Mountain Resort features 125 acres of skiable terrain, an outdoor ice skating rink, and a tubing park for family-friendly winter fun.
When Santa Fe's adobe architecture takes on a magical quality blanketed in snow.
Twilight snowshoeing through the pinyon-juniper forests.
Canyon Road—an inspiring path lined with art galleries and twinkling with festive lights during winter.
Its breathtaking scenery and diverse winter sports, plus the easy proximity to Portland.
Cosmic tubing at Mt. Hood Skibowl, where vibrant LED lights and music create a festive atmosphere as you glide down the slopes.
Timberline Lodge is a historic lodge with stunning views and access to the longest ski season in North America, where visitors can enjoy skiing, snowboarding, and cozy fireside relaxation.
Its stunning turquoise waters that take on a serene beauty in winter. Travelers love the peaceful atmosphere and breathtaking landscapes.
Ice fishing on the lake, where anglers can catch fish while enjoying the crisp mountain air.
Bear Lake State Park, offering picturesque views and access to snowshoeing trails that wind through the snow-covered terrain, perfect for a winter adventure.
Its stunning alpine vistas, abundant wildlife, and spotting elk wandering through town against snowy backdrops.
Ice climbing in Rocky Mountain National Park, offering exhilarating vertical ascents on frozen waterfalls.
Stanley Hotel, which inspired Stephen King's "The Shining" and offers ghost tours year-round.
