The holiday season brings that irresistible urge to pack your bags and escape for an adventure. However, there’s no need to settle for a mundane holiday break—there are plenty of winter adventures, from snow-filled escapades to cozying up in a cabin with hot cocoa.
Grab your scarf, and let’s explore some exciting winter travel ideas.
Cool Cruise Adventures
How about an adventure that blends chill winter thrills and the season’s magic? Then, it’s time to sail from Seattle to Alaska! This breathtaking cruise gives you stunning views of the Pacific Northwest, as well as stops at incredible Alaskan ports.
Sip on hot drinks and watch the frosty fjords glide by, or tick the Northern Lights off on your Alaska bucket list and admire the full technicolored glory.
Many cruises also offer excursions like dog-sledding or visiting ice hotels. The diverse wildlife, beautiful landscapes, and cozy onboard amenities make this winter adventure a must for the season.
Snow Fun Adventures
If cruises aren’t your thing, this next travel adventure spot is perfect: the Rocky Mountain ski resorts. Enjoy world-class skiing and snowboarding from Aspen, Colorado, to Jackson Hole, Wyoming. And, of course, the après-ski festivities!
The festive ambiance is palpable during the holidays. Many resorts have holiday markets, dazzling light displays, and even ice rinks for a touch of magic.
Not a skier? Try tubing, snowshoeing, or relaxing in the spa for a more laid-back experience.
Icy Hiking Adventures
Do you want an adrenaline-fuelled winter adventure? Try winter hiking in the Grand Canyon or Yosemite National Park. The snowy trails give you a unique perspective of these natural wonders—minus the summer crowds! So, you can have the thrill of a wintery challenge without jostling mobs blocking the view.
Just remember to bundle up and only use trails suitable for winter hiking. Guided tours are also available to learn more about the landscapes and wildlife.
Magical Holiday Season Adventures
Another option is to immerse yourself in the magic of the festivities by visiting a small town that hosts annual winter festivals.
For example, Leavenworth, Washington’s Village of Lights, blazes with over half a million lights all season long. Alternatively, Stowe, Vermont, has a Winter Carnival that has been ranked as one of the top festivals across the country.
Unleash your inner child with Christmas markets, parades, and snowman-building competitions. Plus, you’ll also find some truly unique gifts for those who make Santa’s nice list!
Ultimate Wanderlust Adventures
If your wanderlust is too strong for just one place, the answer is simple: a road trip!
For example, you could explore the scenic byways of New England, which becomes a winter postcard, complete with picturesque villages and stunning snowy vistas during the holidays.
Go to cozy inns for local cuisine, visit historic sites, or simply enjoy the gorgeous views on a leisurely drive.
And don’t forget to stop and get all the pics you want—after all, capturing beautiful winter memories is part of the adventure!
Final Thoughts
Whether you want to sail to Alaska, hit the slopes, or snuggle down next to a roaring fire in a cabin, there are countless opportunities for chilly fun.
It’s the season to make unforgettable memories, so embrace your winter wanderlust and have that adventure you’ve been dreaming about!
