As the chilly season sets in across North America, you’re likely to see a surge in advertisements enticing you to the warm beaches of the Caribbean, Mexico, and Hawaii. The implied message is clear: escape the impending winter by hopping on a flight to these sunny destinations.
However, before you rush to book your getaway, consider an alternative perspective. While tropical paradises are appealing any time of the year, there are places whose true splendor only emerges during the winter months. These locales are not just accessible by lengthy flights or extended vacations. Additionally, braving the cold outdoors can be a refreshing way to avoid the common cold and flu. So, gear up with your warmest parka and mittens, and savor the fleeting moments of winter beauty.
1. Explore Bryce Canyon National Park, Utah in Snowshoes
Bryce Canyon is breathtaking throughout the year, but winter cloaks the park in a sparkling layer of snow, transforming the red rock hoodoos into a magnificent, frosty wonderland. This season also means fewer crowds, offering a peaceful experience of the park’s majestic beauty.
Snowshoeing is a premier activity in Bryce Canyon during the snowy season. If you’re without equipment, the park offers ranger-guided snowshoe walks where snowshoes are provided at no extra cost.
2. Discover Frozen Bubbles at Abraham Lake, Alberta
Just beyond the well-trodden paths of Banff and Jasper National Parks lies Abraham Lake, notorious for its stunning frozen bubbles. These bubbles form under the ice when methane gas from decomposing organic matter rises and gets trapped below the surface, creating a unique natural phenomenon that attracts photographers globally.
The best time to view these frozen bubbles is from late December to January, when the ice is sufficiently thick and clear. It’s a cold adventure, but one that’s truly unique and visually striking.
3. Witness the Natural Firefall at Horsetail Falls, Yosemite National Park
Horsetail Falls in Yosemite may not catch many eyes for most of the year, but it steals the spotlight for about two weeks in mid-to-late February. During this period, the setting sun illuminates the waterfall, making it appear as a cascade of fire against El Capitan—an echo of the historic Yosemite Firefall tradition.
Photographers flock to capture this phenomenon, and now a permit from the Ansel Adams Gallery is required to park along the prime viewing area on Northside Drive. Alternatively, visitors can walk or take a shuttle to the site without a permit. Also, keep an eye out for frazil ice, a slushy stream of frozen mist from Yosemite Falls, during the coldest winter days.
4. Marvel at the Northern Lights in Fairbanks, Alaska
Fairbanks, Alaska, offers one of the best vantage points for viewing the Northern Lights, or aurora borealis, during winter. To optimize your chances of witnessing this spectacular light show, it’s advisable to venture away from the city lights.
Popular spots include Creamer’s Field and Chena Hot Springs Road. For a more adventurous experience, consider guided tours that travel north along the Dalton Highway to areas like Coldfoot and the Gates of the Arctic National Park and Preserve. Also, don’t miss the thermal relaxation available at Chena Hot Springs Resort, a short drive from Fairbanks.
5. Encounter Wildlife in Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming
During winter, most of Yellowstone shuts down to car traffic, but opportunities for winter adventures abound. The Old Faithful Snow Lodge and Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel remain open, and snowmobiles and snow coaches traverse the snowy roads starting mid-December.
The park’s geothermal features create an ethereal atmosphere with steam rising from the snow-covered ground. Winter also offers unique wildlife viewing opportunities, from bison huddled around steamy hot springs to elusive wolves roaming the frosty landscape. Ranger-guided snowshoe walks and various tours make exploring this winter wonderland accessible.
6. Solve the Mystery of Sailing Stones at Racetrack Playa, Death Valley National Park
Racetrack Playa in Death Valley presents the intriguing phenomenon of sailing stones. These stones slowly glide across the desert floor, leaving visible tracks behind them. Researchers have discovered that thin ice sheets, forming overnight, are responsible for moving the rocks with the help of morning winds.
Visiting in winter not only allows you to witness this fascinating natural occurrence but also offers a more pleasant climate compared to the scorching heat typical of other seasons in Death Valley.
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A globe-trotter and international trade enthusiast, Oliver explores the connection between business travel and trade opportunities.
