Winter is a magical time of year, transforming landscapes into winter wonderlands and offering a host of exciting activities. For those who love the chill in the air and sight of snowflakes falling from the sky, America offers a plethora of destinations that are nothing short of a winter paradise. In this article, we will explore some of the best places to see snow in America. So, grab a cup of hot cocoa, snuggle up, and let’s embark on this frosty journey!

Fairbanks, Alaska: The Northern Lights Spectacle

Fairbanks, Alaska, is a winter wonderland that offers a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural richness. Known as “Golden Heart City,” Fairbanks is the perfect place to experience the magic of Alaskan wilderness. From the mesmerizing Northern Lights to dog sledding, this city offers a plethora of winter activities that are sure to leave you spellbound.

One of the most popular attractions in Fairbanks are Northern Lights, or Aurora Borealis. The city’s location within the “Aurora Oval” — a ring-shaped region around the North Pole — makes it one of the best places in the world to witness this spectacular natural phenomenon. Northern Lights are most visible from late September to early April, with peak viewing times between 10 PM and 2 AM.

Fairbanks also offers a range of winter activities that allow you to immerse yourself in the Alaskan wilderness. You can go dog sledding through the snowy landscapes, soak in Chena Hot Springs, or explore stunning ice sculptures at annual World Ice Art Championships. The city also hosts “Yukon Quest”, one of the toughest sled dog races in the world, which is a must-see event for any winter sports enthusiast.

For those interested in culture and history, Fairbanks has plenty to offer. University of Alaska Museum of the North houses a vast collection of artifacts and exhibits that tell the story of Alaska’s rich cultural heritage. You can also learn about the state’s gold rush history at Gold Dredge 8 or take a stroll through Pioneer Park, a historic village that offers a glimpse into life in Alaska in the early 20th century.

One visitor shared their experience of mingling with reindeer and fishing on a frozen lake. They also mentioned the unique experience of going inside a glacier, which is a must-try for any winter adventurer. source
Fairbanks, Alaska

1. Aurora Borealis Northern Lights Trip: Experience the magical Northern Lights in one of the best places in the world to view them.
2. Dog Mushing: Embrace the Alaskan tradition and take a thrilling ride on a sled pulled by a team of huskies.

Yellowstone National Park: A Winter Wonderland

Yellowstone National Park, the first national park in the world, is a winter paradise that offers a unique and unforgettable experience. This park’s stunning landscapes, abundant wildlife, and geothermal features make it a must-visit destination for any nature lover.

In winter, Yellowstone transforms into a serene and peaceful wonderland. The park’s geysers and hot springs create a striking contrast against snowy landscapes, offering breathtaking views that are truly one-of-a-kind. This park’s most famous geyser, Old Faithful, is a must-see attraction. This geyser erupts approximately every 90 minutes, shooting water and steam high into the air.

Wildlife viewing is another popular activity in Yellowstone. It is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including wolves, bison, elk, and bald eagles. The park offers guided wildlife tours that provide a safe and educational way to observe these animals in their natural habitat.

For adventurous travellers, Yellowstone offers a range of winter activities. You can explore the park’s snowy landscapes on a snowmobile or snowcoach tour, go cross-country skiing or snowshoeing, or even try ice fishing on the park’s frozen lakes.

One visitor mentioned the quiet beauty of this park during winter, describing it as one of the most peaceful ways to experience Yellowstone. The park’s wildlife, including bison, can often be seen against the snowy landscape, offering excellent opportunities for wildlife photography. source

Yellowstone National Park

1. Wildlife Watching: Spot wolves, elk, and bison in their natural habitat.
2. Snowshoeing and Cross-Country Skiing: Explore the park’s winter wonderland on foot or skis.

Big Sky, Montana: A Sky Full of Snow

Big Sky, Montana, is a winter sports enthusiast’s dream. Known for its vast skiable terrain and breathtaking mountain views, Big Sky offers a range of winter activities that cater to all skill levels.

Big Sky Resort, one of the largest ski resorts in the United States, is the main attraction. This resort boasts over 5,800 acres of skiable terrain, with runs that cater to beginners, intermediates, and experts. This resort’s high elevation and consistent snowfall ensure excellent skiing conditions throughout the winter season.

But skiing isn’t the only winter activity on offer in Big Sky. This area also offers excellent opportunities for snowboarding, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing. For a unique and thrilling experience, you can try your hand at dog sledding or take a snowmobile tour through stunning Gallatin National Forests.

Big Sky is also a great place to relax and unwind after a day of winter activities. This town offers a range of dining and entertainment options, from cozy mountain lodges to upscale restaurants. You can also visit shops and art galleries, or treat yourself to a massage or spa treatment.

Visitors have shared their experiences of hiking to frozen waterfalls and shopping in the town center. Snowshoeing or cross-country skiing on Big Sky’s community trails is another popular activity. One visitor mentioned having a marvelous dinner at one of the local restaurants, which is a perfect way to end a day full of winter activities. source

Big Sky, Montana

1. Zipline Tours: Get a bird’s eye view of the stunning winter landscape.
2. Dog Sledding: Experience the thrill of mushing through the snow-covered wilderness.

Jackson Hole, Wyoming: A Winter Sports Haven

Jackson Hole, Wyoming, is a premier winter destination that offers a unique blend of adventure and relaxation. Known for its world-class skiing and snowboarding, stunning natural beauty, and vibrant local culture, Jackson Hole is a place where you can truly immerse yourself in the magic of winter.

Jackson Hole Mountain Resort is the main attraction for winter sports enthusiasts. This resort boasts over 2,500 acres of skiable terrain, with runs that cater to all skill levels. Due to this resort’s high elevation and consistent snowfall you are sure that this is one the the best places to see snow in December.

But there’s more to Jackson Hole than just skiing and snowboarding. It offers a range of other winter activities, including snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, dog sledding, and snowmobiling. You can also take a wildlife tour in National Elk Refuge or Grand Teton National Park, where you can see elk, bison, wolves, and other wildlife.

Jackson Hole also offers a vibrant local culture. Jackson is home to a range of shops, restaurants, and art galleries, as well as the National Museum of Wildlife Art. You can also experience local cowboy culture at a winter rodeo or by taking a horse-drawn sleigh ride.

One visitor shared their experience of skiing in Jackson Hole, describing it as an unforgettable experience. They mentioned the thrill of skiing down the slopes, breathtaking views, and friendly and helpful staff at the ski resort. source

Jackson Hole, Wyoming

1. Wildlife Tours: Observe the area’s abundant wildlife, including elk, moose, and eagles.
2. Snowshoeing: Trek through the snow-covered landscape for a unique winter adventure.

Burlington, Vermont: A Charming Winter Destination

Burlington, Vermont, is a charming city that offers a unique and enjoyable winter experience. Known for its vibrant arts scene, delicious local cuisine, and outdoor activities, Burlington is a great place to visit in winter.

One of the main attractions in Burlington is Church Street Marketplace, a pedestrian-only shopping area in the heart of the city. Here, you can browse local shops, enjoy a meal at one of the many restaurants, or simply take a leisurely stroll and enjoy the festive winter atmosphere.

Burlington is also a great place for outdoor activities. You can go ice skating at Leddy Park Arena, take a winter hike in Green Mountains, or try cross-country skiing or snowshoeing at the Catamount Outdoor Family Center.

For those interested in arts and culture, Burlington has plenty to offer. The city is home to a number of art galleries and museums, including Fleming Museum of Art and Burlington City Arts Center. You can also catch a performance at Flynn Center for Performing Arts, or explore the city’s vibrant music scene at one of the many local venues.

Burlington also offers a range of dining options, from cozy cafes to upscale restaurants. It is known for its farm-to-table cuisine, and many restaurants source their ingredients from local farms. You can also visit one of the city’s craft breweries or cideries for a taste of Vermont’s local brews.

One visitor shared their experience of visiting Burlington in winter, describing the city as a winter wonderland. They enjoyed ice skating at the waterfront park and sipping hot cocoa at a local cafe. source

Burlington, Vermont

1. Skiing: Hit the slopes at one of the many nearby mountains.
2. Holiday Shopping on Church Street: Find unique gifts and enjoy the festive atmosphere.

North Cascades National Park, Washington: A Snowy Mountain Paradise

North Cascades National Park in Washington is a winter wonderland that offers a unique and unforgettable experience. This park’s stunning landscapes, abundant wildlife, and outdoor activities make it a must-visit destination for any nature lover.

In winter, North Cascades transforms into a serene and peaceful wonderland. This park’s mountains, forests, and lakes create a striking contrast against the snowy landscapes, offering breathtaking views that are truly one-of-a-kind.

Wildlife viewing is a popular activity in North Cascades. This park is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including black bears, mule deer, and bald eagles. In winter, these animals are often easier to spot against the snowy backdrop.

For adventurous types, North Cascades offers a range of winter activities. You can explore the park’s snowy landscapes on a snowshoeing or cross-country skiing tour, or try ice climbing on frozen waterfalls.

One visitor shared their experience of snowshoeing, describing breathtaking views of the snow-covered mountains and the peacefulness of the park in winter. source

North Cascades National Park, Washington

1. Snowshoeing and Skiing: Explore the park’s winter landscapes on snowshoes or skis.
2. Ice Fishing and Snowmobiling: Enjoy the thrill of ice fishing or snowmobiling.

Aspen, Colorado: A Luxurious Winter Retreat

Aspen, Colorado, is a world-renowned winter destination that offers a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and outdoor adventure. Known for its world-class skiing and snowboarding, vibrant arts scene, and luxurious amenities, Aspen is a place where you can truly immerse yourself in the magic of winter.

Aspen is home to four ski areas: Aspen Mountain, Aspen Highlands, Buttermilk, and Snowmass. These resorts offer a wide range of terrain, catering to all skill levels. Whether you’re a beginner looking to learn, an intermediate looking to improve, or an expert looking for a challenge, Aspen has something for you.

There’s more to Aspen than just skiing and snowboarding. Aspen offers a range of other winter activities, including ice skating, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing. You can also take a hot air balloon ride for a unique and breathtaking view of snowy landscapes.

Aspen is also known for its vibrant arts and culture scene. It is home to a number of art galleries and museums, as well as the Aspen Music Festival and School. You can also catch a performance at Wheeler Opera House, or explore this town’s historic sites, such as the Wheeler-Stallard Museum and Holden/Marolt Mining and Ranching Museum.

Aspen, Colorado

1. Snowmobile Tours: Explore Aspen’s winter landscape on a thrilling snowmobile tour.
2. Snowcat Dinner Rides: Enjoy a unique dining experience with a snowcat ride to a secluded cabin for dinner.

Lake Tahoe, California: A Winter Gem

Lake Tahoe, California, is a winter paradise that offers a unique blend of natural beauty and outdoor adventure. Known for its stunning lake views, world-class ski resorts, and range of winter activities, Lake Tahoe is a place where you can truly immerse yourself in the magic of winter.

Lake Tahoe is home to several ski resorts, including Heavenly Mountain Resort, Squaw Valley, and Northstar California. These resorts offer a wide range of terrain, catering to all skill levels. Whether you’re a beginner looking to learn, an intermediate looking to improve, or an expert looking for a challenge, Lake Tahoe has something for you.

But there’s more to Lake Tahoe than just skiing and snowboarding. This area offers a range of other winter activities, including ice skating, snowshoeing, and snowmobiling. You can also take a scenic gondola ride for a breathtaking view of the lake and surrounding mountains.

Lake Tahoe is also a great place to relax and unwind after a day of winter activities. The area offers a range of dining and entertainment options, from cozy mountain lodges to upscale restaurants. You can also visit spas for a relaxing massage or spa treatment.

One visitor shared their experience of visiting Lake Tahoe in winter, describing the stunning views of snow-covered lake and mountains. They enjoyed skiing at the resort and relaxing by the fireplace in their cabin. source

Lake Tahoe, California

1. Skiing and Snowboarding: Enjoy the area’s world-class ski resorts.
2. Ice Skating: Glide across the ice with a beautiful winter backdrop.

Park City, Utah: A Winter Playground for All Ages

Park City, Utah, is a premier winter destination that offers a unique blend of adventure and relaxation. Known for its world-class skiing and snowboarding, stunning natural beauty, and vibrant local culture, Park City is a place where you can truly immerse yourself in the magic of winter.

Park City Mountain Resort is the main attraction for winter sports enthusiasts. This resort boasts over 7,300 acres of skiable terrain, with runs that cater to all skill levels. The resort’s high elevation and consistent snowfall ensure excellent skiing conditions throughout the winter season.

But there’s more to Park City than just skiing and snowboarding. It offers a range of other winter activities, including snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, dog sledding, and snowmobiling. You can also take a scenic gondola ride for a breathtaking view of the surrounding mountains.

Park City also offers a vibrant local culture. The town is home to a range of shops, restaurants, and art galleries, as well as the Utah Olympic Park, where you can learn about the city’s Olympic history. You can also experience the local cowboy culture at a winter rodeo or by taking a horse-drawn sleigh ride.

Park City, Utah

1. Snow Biking: Try out this fun winter activity, which combines biking and skiing.
2. Tubing at Woodward: Slide down the snow-covered hills on a tube for a fun-filled adventure.

Stowe, Vermont: A Classic New England Winter Experience

Stowe, Vermont, is a charming town that offers a unique and enjoyable winter experience. Known for its vibrant arts scene, delicious local cuisine, and outdoor activities, Stowe is a great place to visit in the winter.

One of the main attractions in Stowe is Stowe Mountain Resort, a premier ski destination that offers a wide range of terrain for all skill levels. The resort’s high elevation and consistent snowfall ensure excellent skiing conditions throughout the winter season.

But there’s more to Stowe than just skiing. The town offers a range of other winter activities, including ice skating, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing. You can also take a scenic gondola ride for a breathtaking view of the surrounding mountains.

Stowe is also known for its vibrant arts and culture scene. The town is home to a number of art galleries and museums, including the Vermont Ski and Snowboard Museum and the Helen Day Art Center. You can also catch a performance at the Spruce Peak Performing Arts Center, or explore the town’s historic sites, such as the Stowe Historical Society Museum.

Stowe, Vermont

1. Skiing at Stowe Mountain Resort: Enjoy the thrill of skiing down the slopes at this world-class resort.
2. Snowshoeing: Explore Stowe’s winter landscape on a peaceful snowshoeing adventure.

Mount Rainier, Washington: A Snow-Covered Peak

Mount Rainier, Washington, is a winter paradise that offers a unique blend of natural beauty and outdoor adventure. Known for its stunning mountain views, abundant wildlife, and range of winter activities, Mount Rainier is a place where you can truly immerse yourself in the magic of winter.

Mount Rainier is renowned for its heavy winters, with December being the perfect month for snow sports as it’s when the mountain gets the most snowfall. The park’s stunning landscapes, abundant wildlife, and outdoor activities make it a must-visit destination for any nature lover.

In winter, Mount Rainier transforms into a serene and peaceful wonderland. The park’s mountains, forests, and lakes create a striking contrast against the snowy landscapes, offering breathtaking views that are truly one-of-a-kind.

Wildlife viewing is a popular activity in Mount Rainier. The park is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including black bears, mule deer, and bald eagles. In winter, these animals are often easier to spot against the snowy backdrop.

For the adventurous, Mount Rainier offers a range of winter activities. You can explore the park’s snowy landscapes on a snowshoeing or cross-country skiing tour, or try ice climbing on the park’s frozen waterfalls.

One visitor shared their experience of visiting Mount Rainier in winter, describing the breathtaking views of snow-covered mountain and peacefulness of the park. They enjoyed snowshoeing and spotting wildlife. source

Mount Rainier, Washington

1. Ranger-guided Snowshoe Walks: Learn about the park’s winter ecology on a guided snowshoe walk.
2. Sledding at Paradise: Have fun sledding in the designated snow play area at Paradise.

Mount Hood National Forest, Oregon: A Winter Wonderland

Mount Hood National Forest in Oregon is a winter wonderland that offers a unique and unforgettable experience. The forest’s stunning landscapes, abundant wildlife, and outdoor activities make it a must-visit destination for any nature lover.

In winter, Mount Hood National Forest transforms into a serene and peaceful wonderland. The forest’s mountains, forests, and lakes create a striking contrast against the snowy landscapes, offering breathtaking views that are truly one-of-a-kind.

Wildlife viewing is a popular activity in Mount Hood National Forest. The forest is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including black bears, mule deer, and bald eagles. In winter, these animals are often easier to spot against the snowy backdrop.

For the adventurous, Mount Hood National Forest offers a range of winter activities. You can explore the forest’s snowy landscapes on a snowshoeing or cross-country skiing tour, or try ice climbing on the forest’s frozen waterfalls.

One visitor shared their experience of visiting Mount Hood in winter, describing the thrill of skiing down the mountain and the beauty of the snow-covered forest. source

Mount Hood National Forest, Oregon

1. Skiing or Snowboarding: Hit the slopes at one of the area’s ski resorts.
2. Snowshoeing: Explore the forest’s winter landscapes on snowshoes.

Steamboat Springs, Colorado: A Winter Sports Paradise

Steamboat Springs, Colorado, is a world-renowned winter destination that offers a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and outdoor adventure. Known for its world-class skiing and snowboarding, vibrant arts scene, and luxurious amenities, Steamboat Springs is a place where you can truly immerse yourself in the magic of winter.

Steamboat Springs has frigid and cold temperatures during winter, which is completely unsurprising to most. The skies can also be rather grey, but that doesn’t stop the fun. The town offers a range of winter activities, including skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, and ice fishing. You can also take a hot air balloon ride for a unique and breathtaking view of the snowy landscapes.

Steamboat Springs is also known for its vibrant arts and culture scene. The town is home to a number of art galleries and museums, as well as the Steamboat Art Museum and the Tread of Pioneers Museum. You can also catch a performance at the Chief Theater, or explore the town’s historic sites, such as the Howelsen Hill Ski Area and the Yampa River Botanic Park.

One visitor shared their experience of visiting Steamboat Springs in winter, describing the thrill of skiing and the relaxing experience of soaking in the hot springs. source

Steamboat Springs, Colorado

1. Night Skiing: Experience the thrill of skiing under the stars.
2. Soak in Hot Springs: Relax in the warm waters of the area’s hot springs.

Wrapping Up Our Snowy Journey

As we wrap up our journey through the best places to see snow in America, it’s clear that there’s no shortage of winter wonderlands to explore. From the Northern Lights in Fairbanks, Alaska, to the snow-covered peaks of Mount Rainier, Washington, each destination offers its unique blend of winter activities and breathtaking landscapes. Whether you’re a winter sports enthusiast or simply love the sight of snow, these destinations are sure to offer a memorable winter experience.

Frequently Asked Questions About The Best Places to See Snow in December!

To conclude our article, let’s answer some frequently asked questions about winter travel.

Q: What should I pack for a winter trip?

A: Packing for a winter trip depends on your destination and the activities you plan to do. However, some essentials include warm clothing like thermal underwear, sweaters, and a winter coat, as well as accessories like hats, gloves, and scarves. Don’t forget a good pair of waterproof boots for snowy conditions!

Q: What are some tips for driving in the snow?

A: If you’re not used to driving in snow, it can be a bit daunting. Some tips include driving slowly, keeping a safe distance from cars in front of you, and avoiding sudden stops and starts. It’s also a good idea to have a winter car emergency kit, including items like a snow shovel, ice scraper, and blankets.

Q: What are some good winter activities for kids?

A: There are plenty of winter activities that kids will love. Some ideas include sledding, building a snowman, having a snowball fight, and making snow angels. Many of the destinations we mentioned also offer kid-friendly activities like ice skating and beginner ski lessons.

Q: What are the best places to see snow in December?

A: All places mentioned in this article are great places to see snow in December. However, some particularly good options might be Fairbanks, Alaska, for the Northern Lights; Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming, for a peaceful winter landscape; and Lake Tahoe, California, for winter sports and beautiful lake views.

We hope this article has inspired you to explore some of the best places to see snow in America. Whether you’re planning a winter getaway or just dreaming of a white Christmas, these destinations are sure to deliver a winter experience you won’t forget. Safe travels!