Winter in the United States has a unique allure. It's a time when the world seems to slow down, and the landscape transforms into a glistening wonderland. As the snow blankets the nation, the open road becomes an invitation to embark on unforgettable adventures. To inspire your winter wanderlust, we've crafted a guide to five captivating road trips, each with its own charm. From the adrenaline rush of Rocky Mountain adventures to the serene retreats by the Great Lakes, from chasing the mystical Northern Lights in Alaska to escaping to the warm Southwest deserts, and finally, to the coastal splendor of California, these journeys promise to create cherished memories.
Road tripping around the US during winter. Photo by Dalton Johnson
1. Rocky Mountain Adventure
Imagine waking up to the soft whisper of snowfall outside your window, the anticipation of carving down pristine slopes, and evenings spent cozied up in mountain cabins. A Rocky Mountain winter road trip promises all this and more. Whether you're an avid skier or simply yearn for the breathtaking beauty of snow-clad peaks, this adventure is tailor-made for you.
Pros:
World-class skiing and snowboarding opportunities.
Stunning mountain vistas and pristine wilderness.
Cozy mountain towns with great après-ski scenes.
Outdoor activities like snowshoeing, snowmobiling, and ice climbing.
Cons:
Crowded ski resorts during peak season.
Potentially challenging winter driving conditions in the mountains.
Accommodation prices can be high in popular ski towns.
Distance:
Approximately 600 miles from Denver, Colorado, to Jackson Hole, Wyoming.
Must-Do Adventures:
Ski or Snowboard: Hit the slopes at renowned resorts like Aspen, Vail, or Jackson Hole.
Explore National Parks: Visit Rocky Mountain National Park or Grand Teton National Park for winter hiking and wildlife viewing.
Hot Springs Soak: Relax in natural hot springs like Strawberry Park Hot Springs in Colorado or Granite Hot Springs in Wyoming.
Snowshoeing in the Rockies: Discover the winter wonderland on snowshoes with guided tours or self-guided hikes.
2. Lakeside Retreat in the Great Lakes
Picture yourself strolling along the tranquil shores of the Great Lakes, the soft crunch of snow beneath your boots, and the promise of cozy nights by a crackling fireplace. A winter road trip to the Great Lakes region invites you to experience the beauty and serenity of lakeside retreats in their most peaceful form.
Pros:
Serene lakeside beauty with peaceful winter landscapes.
Charming towns and cozy accommodations.
Ice fishing and snowmobiling opportunities.
Less crowded than summer months.
Cons:
Cold temperatures and heavy snowfall may limit outdoor activities.
Some attractions and restaurants may have reduced hours or be closed.
Distance:
Approximately 800 miles from Chicago, Illinois, to Traverse City, Michigan.
Must-Do Adventures:
Ice Fishing: Try ice fishing on Lake Superior, Lake Michigan, or one of the inland lakes.
Winter Hiking: Explore snow-covered trails in Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore.
Snowshoe Wine Tours: Traverse the snowy vineyards of Michigan's wine country on guided snowshoe tours.
Cozy Fireside Dining: Savor local cuisine and craft beers at quaint lakeside restaurants.
3. Northern Lights in Alaska
Have you ever dreamed of witnessing the celestial ballet of the Northern Lights in the heart of Alaska's pristine wilderness? There's something truly magical about chasing the Aurora Borealis across the Arctic sky, and an Alaskan winter road trip promises just that.
Pros:
Chance to witness the mesmerizing Northern Lights.
Pristine winter landscapes and wildlife encounters.
Unique winter activities like dog sledding and ice fishing.
Quiet and peaceful wilderness.
Cons:
Extremely cold temperatures and limited daylight.
Remote locations may require careful planning and preparation.
Aurora Borealis sightings are not guaranteed.
Distance:
It varies depending on your starting point, but Alaska is a vast state. For example, Anchorage to Fairbanks is approximately 360 miles.
Must-Do Adventures:
Northern Lights Viewing: Seek out dark, clear skies for the best chance of witnessing the Aurora Borealis.
Dog Sledding: Experience the thrill of mushing with a team of huskies in the snowy wilderness.
Ice Road Trips: Drive on frozen rivers and lakes to access remote areas like the Dalton Highway.
Winter Wildlife Tours: Join guided tours to spot moose, wolves, and other Arctic wildlife in their winter habitat.
4. Southwest Desert Escape
Escape the winter chill and dive into a world of warmth, red rocks, and endless sunshine. A road trip to the Southwest deserts of Arizona and New Mexico beckons with promises of unique desert landscapes, outdoor adventures, and soothing natural hot springs.
Pros:
Escape from the cold to warm and sunny desert landscapes.
Unique desert scenery with red rocks and cacti.
Opportunities for outdoor adventures like hiking and hot air ballooning.
Natural hot springs for relaxation.
Cons:
Some desert regions can get crowded during the winter months.
Desert nights can be chilly despite daytime warmth.
Limited snow-related activities.
Distance:
Approximately 400 miles from Phoenix, Arizona, to Santa Fe, New Mexico.
Must-Do Adventures:
Hike in the Desert: Explore iconic desert trails like Camelback Mountain in Arizona or Tent Rocks in New Mexico.
Hot Air Ballooning: Soar above the desert landscape for a breathtaking sunrise view.
Stargazing: Enjoy some of the clearest night skies in the country; consider visiting a desert observatory.
Visit Desert National Parks: Explore parks like Joshua Tree (California/Arizona) or Saguaro (Arizona) for unique desert flora and fauna.
5. California Coastline Drive
The allure of California's coastline is irresistible, and in winter, it reveals a different kind of beauty. Imagine cruising along the iconic Pacific Coast Highway, with waves crashing against rugged cliffs and charming coastal towns waiting to be explored.
Pros:
Picturesque coastal beauty with stunning ocean views.
Mild winter weather with fewer crowds.
Quaint coastal towns with cozy inns and restaurants.
Access to diverse outdoor activities.
Cons:
Some coastal areas may experience rain during the winter months.
Highways can be winding and congested in popular tourist spots.
Accommodation prices may still be relatively high in coastal towns.
Distance:
The entire Pacific Coast Highway (Highway 1) stretches roughly 650 miles from San Francisco to San Diego.
Must-Do Adventures:
Drive the Pacific Coast Highway: Enjoy breathtaking coastal vistas along this iconic highway.
Visit Big Sur: Explore McWay Falls and Bixby Creek Bridge, and take in the beauty of Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park.
Whale Watching: Take a whale-watching tour to spot migrating gray whales.
Surfing and Beachcombing: Enjoy the Pacific Ocean with surfing in Santa Cruz or beachcombing for seashells and sea glass.
Finding warmth in the desert during an winter road trip to the Southwest. Photo by Dalton Johnson
As winter wraps the United States in its icy embrace, these five winter road trips offer a chance to explore the nation's diverse landscapes and engage in a variety of seasonal activities. Whether you seek the adrenaline rush of Rocky Mountain adventures, the tranquility of lakeside retreats, the magic of the Northern Lights in Alaska, the warmth of desert escapes, or the coastal beauty of California, each journey promises unforgettable moments and natural wonders. So, grab your winter gear, plan your route, and embark on a road trip filled with chilly delights, breathtaking vistas, and cherished memories. Winter is calling, and it's time to answer with an adventure on the open road.
