12 Winter Mountain Breaks in the US for the Ultimate Winter Wonderland Experience
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Get ready for a cozy winter getaway in the United States mountains. The best winter mountain breaks in the US are packed with endless fun and relaxation.
While traveling to a tropical getaway is exciting, there’s something indescribably satisfying about a winter mountain getaway. From luxurious ski resorts to quiet winter lodges with breathtaking views, we guarantee you’ll find the perfect cold-weather alpine destination.
If you love winter sports, warm fires, and evenings cozying under starry nights, these epic spots are worth traveling to. Below are the top 12 winter mountain breaks in the US.
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Mammoth Mountain, California
Mammoth is a winter playground full of world-class skiing, snowboarding, and plenty of fun activities. You’ll be over 11,000 feet in California’s Sierra Nevada Mountains.
The town gets over 300 days of sunshine a year and some of the best snow on the planet. In addition to the incredible skiing, there’s snowmobiling, gondola rides, and plenty of sights, including the Mammoth Museum at the Hayden Cabin.
For the best overnight stay, check out the Village Lodge. With ski-to-door service, two top restaurants, and luxurious amenities such as hot tubs and heated pools, you’ll be winter-dreaming in no time. Prices per night start at around $250.
Read also: Gorgeous Winter Sun Destinations in the US
Jackson, Wyoming
Jackson is a town nestled in the Teton Mountains of Wyoming. You’ll be in the center of one of the country’s most thrilling wildlife habitats and ski destinations.
Surrounding Jackson are world-class ski trails and miles of wilderness terrain. When you’re not adventuring, you can cozy up by the fire or enjoy a home-cooked meal downtown.
We recommend staying at the Wort Hotel. Starting at just over $275 a night, this luxurious hotel features a highly-rated restaurant, nearby ski lifts right out the door, and friendly service to make you feel at home.
Read also: Beautiful US Cities in Winter
Vail, Colorado
Vail is one of the US’ most popular winter ski destinations for couples and families. It’s also the perfect winter mountain break to get away from the stress of everyday life.
You’ll feel like you’re in a storybook, with activities ranging from sleigh rides to smores competitions. On top of it all are its world-class ski trails with amazing powder snow and challenges for all levels.
When you stay in Vail, consider staying at the Four Seasons Resort Vail. Starting at just over $500 a night, you can have a ski-in, ski-out experience with luxurious amenities, including a renowned spa, heated pools, and three fantastic restaurants.
Read also: Best Weekend Getaways in the US in Winter
Yosemite, California
Yosemite is one of the most renowned winter destinations in the US. As one of the country’s premier national parks on the West Coast, Yosemite has endless appeal throughout the year, especially in winter.
Winter is a great time to see wildlife and experience the dramatic landscape covered in snow. You can snowshoe through a wilderness packed with natural sights, such as Yosemite Falls and the great Half-Dome.
We recommend staying at the beautiful Tenaya at Yosemite. This mountain lodge has incredible amenities, two swimming pools, and an onsite spa, so you can stay extra refreshed and relaxed on this incredible winter break.
Read also: Top Winter Sun Destinations in the World
Park City, Utah
It’s hard to beat Park City as a top winter break. It has more famous ski slopes than an action movie, has one-liners, and is surrounded by striking landscapes and nature. Besides skiing, there are boundless winter activities to enjoy, from sleigh rides to snowmobiling.
In town, you’ll find cozy restaurants, winter events, and fun for the entire family. You’ll also find some great locations for live music and late-night excitement.
Try staying at the luxurious Stein Eriksen Lodge Deer Valley in Park City for just under $375. This luxurious lodge features romantic sleigh rides, nearby ski lifts, and luxurious amenities that rival any winter break in the country.
Read also: Beautiful Cities for Winter Lovers
Lake Tahoe, California
Lake Tahoe is an epic winter destination full of incredible nature, skiing, and endless fun. The town is nestled near the stunning Lake Tahoe, near the ski resorts and forests of the Sierra Nevada Mountains.
In town, you’ll find endless winter activities such as cozy firepits, horseshoeing through nature trails, sledding, and live music. Drive around the lake to see some of the most famous views in California before experiencing some of the best snow for winter sports in the country.
We recommend staying at the luxurious Marriott Timber Lodge in Lake Tahoe, starting at just under $150 a night. In this exciting getaway, you’ll have a gondola to the mountain, luxurious amenities, and friendly service.
Read also: Beautiful Cities for Winter Vacations
Aspen, Colorado
Aspen is Colorado’s premier ski destination for intense slopes and luxury. You’ll find high-end fashion mixed with adrenaline. Plus, there is an added coziness that keeps people coming back for more.
The town is surrounded by some of the country’s most renowned ski resorts. You’ll also enjoy amazing restaurants in town with winter activities and events almost every night.
For the ultimate ski-in, ski-out experience, we recommend the W Aspen. For just around $399 a night, you can jump on a lift, dine in luxury, or relax in the heated pools.
Read also: Awesome Mountain Getaways in the US
Fairbanks, Alaska
Fairbanks is the ultimate escape if you want to see the fabulous Northern Lights. This remote city sits just below the Arctic Circle, so you’ll feel like you’ve entered the North Pole.
The city offers endless activities, from snowmobiling and dog sledding to viewing the Northern Lights. Downtown, you can try the delicious and hearty local cuisine and rub shoulders with fellow adventurous people.
In Fairbanks, try staying at the popular Pike’s Waterfront Lodge for just over $150 a night. It features a cabin-like vibe with wonderful amenities like a sauna and an on-site restaurant with plenty of delicious options.
Read also: Beautiful Northern Lights Viewing Spots in the US
Lake Placid, New York
Lake Placid is a stunning winter destination with everything from gorgeous natural surroundings to world-class skiing and outdoor sports. The city is one of the country’s top Olympic destinations, and athletes still come here to train.
When you arrive, you can enjoy the quaint downtown vibes or explore the trails. If you love skiing or snowboarding, hit the slopes and pause for a hot chocolate in one of the city’s famous faces.
We recommend staying at the luxurious Whiteface Lodge Resort when you’re in Lake Placid. This elegant hotel starts at around $375 per night and offers many luxurious amenities, including heated pools and a popular spa and wellness center.
Read also: Best Scenic Hikes in the US
Stowe, Vermont
Stowe is another gem in the Northeast. It offers incredible skiing, great dining options, and some of America’s most awe-inspiring scenery. During the winter, it becomes a haven for skiers and vacationers looking for the ultimate winter holiday break.
The town is surrounded by mountains and dense forests of conifers, maples, and oaks. Try the local maple syrup donuts before hitting the slopes for some of the best powder snow in the country.
We recommend staying at the Topnotch Resort for just under $200 a night. Here, you can enjoy luxurious amenities, a full-service spa, and friendly service, as well as access to the slopes and world-class snow.
Read also: Top-Rated Hiking Trails in the World
Beaver Creek, Colorado
Beaver Creek is a small town tucked in the Colorado Rockies. It offers some of the best skiing in the country and keeps its small-town vibes throughout the season.
In the center of town is a popular ice rink with holiday decorations and plenty of winter activities and events. It’s surrounded by world-class shopping, dining, and art galleries with fantastic local art.
Park Hyatt Beaver Creek Resort and Spa is the perfect place to rest in Beaver Creek. You’ll have ski-in and ski-out service to some of the region’s best ski slopes. On top of that, you can relax in the renowned spa and wellness center before dining at the beautiful restaurant.
Read also: Beautiful Mountains in the World
Sun Valley, Idaho
Sun Valley is one of the country’s premier winter destinations for fun in the snow. It features world-famous skiing, beautiful nature, and endless excitement for all ages.
There’s nearby cross-country skiing and ice skating, family-friendly activities like sledding and holiday events, and incredible restaurants with live entertainment. It also has miles of ski trails and some of the best snow on the planet.
Try staying at the Sun Valley Resort, one of the town’s most beloved luxury resorts. Prices start at around $230 a night, and it features incredible amenities such as three swimming pools, a spa and wellness center, and six renowned restaurants.
Read also: Cheap Winter Resorts in the US
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