Seasonal Guides
Winter in Galena Means Skiing at Chestnut Mountain
Best of Winter at Chestnut Mountain Ski Resort
Just a few hours from Chicago, Chestnut Mountain Ski Resort delivers one of the most exciting winter adventures in Illinois. Perched high above the Mississippi River Valley in Galena, this mountain-style resort offers a refreshing change of pace for Midwest travelers craving snow, elevation, and outdoor fun without long-distance travel.
Chestnut Mountain Ski Resort is known for its impressive terrain by Illinois standards, featuring 19 runs across more than 3,500 feet of skiable terrain. From beginner-friendly slopes to challenging black diamond trails, the resort welcomes skiers and snowboarders of all experience levels. A 475-foot vertical drop, consistent snowmaking, and well-groomed runs create reliable conditions throughout the winter season, making it one of the top destinations for skiing in Illinois and a favorite for those seeking skiing near Chicago.
Beyond the slopes, Chestnut Mountain adds to the adventure with night skiing, terrain parks, and scenic overlooks that showcase sweeping river views. Cozy dining spots and warming areas make it easy to recharge between runs, whether you’re planning a full weekend or a spontaneous winter escape.
Galena itself enhances the experience with its historic downtown, lively Main Street, and variety of things to do in winter. After a day on the mountain, visitors can explore local boutiques, enjoy wine tastings, or dine at inviting restaurants that highlight the town’s character. Outdoor enthusiasts can extend the adventure with winter hiking at nearby preserves or scenic drives through rolling countryside dusted with snow.
Where to Stay for Your Galena Winter Getaway
After a full day of skiing and exploring, Galena’s bed and breakfasts and boutique inns offer a welcome retreat. Properties affiliated with the Midwest Association of Independent Inns provide comfortable accommodations, thoughtful amenities, and personalized service you won’t find at larger hotels. Many are located close to downtown or just a short drive from Chestnut Mountain, making it easy to balance slope time with relaxation.
If you’re planning a winter adventure filled with skiing, small-town charm, and memorable Midwest scenery, Chestnut Mountain Ski Resort and Galena offer a combination that keeps visitors coming back season after season.
Winter in Missoula: Plan the Ultimate Winter Getaway!
Winter in Missoula Brings the Best Adventure Getaways
Winter in Missoula brings a lively blend of mountain scenery, outdoor adventure, and small-town comfort. The season transforms this Montana destination into an appealing mix of snowy fun and cozy moments, perfect for travelers seeking both excitement and relaxation. With crisp air, fresh snowfall, and access to unforgettable winter activities, it is easy to see why a winter adventure in Missoula continues to grow in popularity.
Exploring Missoula in winter is easy – there are endless things to do in Missoula no matter the season! Snowmobile across breathtaking terrain at Lolo Pass, Clearwater National Forest, or the Blue Mountain Recreation Area, where miles of groomed trails and unforgettable views await. Skiers and snowboarders can head to Montana Snowbowl for satisfying runs surrounded by rugged alpine scenery. If you prefer a slower pace, winter hiking or snowshoeing on nearby trails provides a quiet way to enjoy the snow-covered landscape.
Relax at Our Montana Bed and Breakfast
Between mountain outings, Missoula’s welcoming food and drink scene keeps you warm and well fed. Local breweries like Bayern Brewing serve flavorful craft beers, while restaurants around town offer hearty Montana dishes ideal after a day outside. You can warm up even more with a visit to natural hot springs such as Jerry Johnson or Weir Hot Springs, both known for their peaceful setting and soothing water. Ice skating at Glacier Ice Rink, browsing downtown shops, or catching a University of Montana hockey game all add to the season’s fun.
Choosing our Montana Bed and Breakfast as your home base enhances your winter getaway with comfort and thoughtful hospitality. Our guest rooms feature plush bedding, private baths, and appealing touches like jetted tubs or private decks. Each morning begins with a homemade breakfast, from huckleberry Dutch Babies to steak and eggs, served with beautiful views of the Missoula Valley.
With 20 acres of wildlife habitat and direct access to Blue Mountain Recreation Area, our Missoula Bed and Breakfast makes it easy to balance exploration with relaxation, as you enjoy the best of winter in Missoula. After your adventures, unwind with billiards, a glass of wine, or a quiet evening in the lodge-style setting. This inviting inn offers a warm home base for your winter and adventure travel in Missoula.
Winter Skiing & More at Hurricane Ridge, Washington
What to Know About Hurricane Ridge Ski Area
Winter at Hurricane Ridge Ski Area delivers one of the most memorable adventure experiences in Olympic National Park. Located high above Port Angeles, this small, community-driven ski hill combines deep snowfall, classic rope tows, and sweeping alpine views that stretch from jagged Olympic peaks to the Strait of Juan de Fuca. When Hurricane Ridge Road is open, the drive alone sets the tone for a true winter mountain day.
Hurricane Ridge Ski Area feels refreshingly approachable. The terrain offers a balance of wide groomed runs, steeper bowls, and gladed sections that reward confident skiers and riders without the crowds found at larger resorts. With more than 400 inches of annual snowfall, powder days are common, and the relaxed pace makes it easy to focus on fun rather than lift lines.
Winter adventure here extends well beyond skiing. Hurricane Ridge Olympic National Park is the focal point for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing in the colder months. Meadows above the main parking area provide ideal terrain for beginners, while routes toward Hurricane Hill offer longer outings and panoramic views. Families also gravitate toward the tubing park and snow play areas, which make Hurricane Ridge Washington a well-rounded winter destination.
Vacation Rentals Near Hurricane Ridge Ski Area
Staying nearby makes all the difference when planning a winter adventure at Hurricane Ridge Ski Area. Vacation rentals in Port Angeles and Sequim place you close enough for early starts on the mountain, while keeping you comfortably below the snow line when weather shifts. These homes range from cozy cabins to larger properties designed for families, groups, and pet-friendly travel.
After a day outside, full kitchens, inviting living spaces, and private decks or hot tubs at select homes create a welcome place to unwind. Many rentals feature water or forest views, adding another layer to the experience of Olympic National Park in winter.
With skiing, snowshoeing, tubing, and scenic winter drives all centered around Hurricane Ridge, this area offers an adventure-forward getaway that feels both accessible and special. Pair your mountain days with the right home base, and you have a winter trip worth repeating.
Winter Weekends at the Top Ski Resorts in Minnesota
Best Ski Resorts in Minnesota For Winter Weekends
Winter brings out the bold side of the Midwest, and the best ski resorts in Minnesota prove that adventure thrives when the temperatures drop. With dependable snowfall, varied terrain, and wide open views, Minnesota ski resorts offer a winter experience that appeals to both seasoned skiers and first-timers planning a weekend escape. From dramatic slopes overlooking Lake Superior to accessible ski hills near the Twin Cities, skiing in Minnesota feels both exciting and refreshingly down-to-earth.
Lutsen Mountains leads the way as the largest ski resort in the Midwest, featuring multiple peaks, long runs, and unmatched views of Lake Superior. It is a destination that feels expansive and rewarding for skiers looking to challenge themselves. Afton Alps, Buck Hill, and Welch Village offer easy access for quick winter weekends, while still delivering well-groomed runs and lively ski culture. Spirit Mountain in Duluth blends city energy with elevated terrain, offering night skiing and sweeping lake views that make every run memorable.
Skiing is only part of what makes winter in Minnesota so appealing. Between ski days, travelers can explore winter activities in Minnesota like snowshoeing through state parks, ice fishing on frozen lakes, winter hiking along the North Shore, or catching a local hockey game under the lights. These experiences add variety and depth to any winter adventure weekend.
Cozy Stays Near Minnesota Ski Resorts
After long days on the slopes, comfort matters. Staying at one of the many Bed and Breakfasts in Minnesota adds warmth and personality to a ski getaway. These independently owned properties offer inviting rooms, thoughtful amenities, and hearty breakfasts made with local ingredients. Many are located near popular ski resorts in Minnesota, making it easy to balance adventure with relaxation. Innkeepers often share tips on nearby ski hills, winter trails, and local dining, helping guests experience more than what is listed on a map.
For travelers craving fresh air, outdoor excitement, and a welcoming place to recharge, winter weekends spent at the best ski resorts in Minnesota deliver the perfect mix of adventure and comfort.
Wisconsin Skiing at Cascade Mountain
Winter Adventure at Cascade Mountain, Wisconsin
Winter transforms Cascade Mountain, Wisconsin, into one of the most exciting ski destinations in the Midwest. Located between Madison and the Wisconsin Dells, Cascade Mountain offers a true mountain-style experience with terrain that appeals to first-time skiers, seasoned riders, and everyone in between. With nearly 50 runs, dependable snowmaking, and night skiing, this Cascade Ski Resort delivers consistent conditions throughout the winter season.
Adventure seekers will appreciate the variety of ski hills at Cascade Mountain. Wide beginner runs make learning approachable, while intermediate and advanced trails allow confident skiers to build speed and technique. Terrain parks, tubing lanes, and snow play areas round out the experience, making it easy to customize your day on the slopes. This balance is what places Cascade Mountain among the best ski resorts in Wisconsin for winter getaways.
Beyond skiing, winter adventures continue off the mountain, with plenty of unique things to do in Wisconsin. Nearby Baraboo and Wisconsin Dells offer dining, breweries, shopping, and seasonal events that add depth to your ski trip. Devil’s Lake State Park invites winter hiking and snowshoeing, while scenic drives through the region highlight the beauty of Wisconsin in winter. These added experiences make Cascade Mountain a hub for things to do in Wisconsin during the colder months.
Where to Stay Near Cascade Mountain Wisconsin
After a full day of skiing, choosing the right place to stay elevates your getaway. Bed and Breakfasts near Cascade Mountain Wisconsin offer a warmer, more personal alternative to large hotels. Guests enjoy comfortable rooms, locally inspired breakfasts, and hosts who understand the rhythm of winter travel. Many inns are within easy driving distance of the slopes, allowing you to focus more on adventure and less on logistics.
Staying at an independent inn enhances your ski getaway with thoughtful details and genuine hospitality. Whether you are planning a weekend escape or a longer winter adventure, these properties provide the ideal home base.
Cascade Mountain, Wisconsin, delivers everything travelers look for in winter skiing: varied terrain, reliable snow, and a location that keeps adventure close. Pair your days on the slopes with an inviting Bed and Breakfast stay, and your winter adventure in Wisconsin comes together effortlessly.
Romantic Winter Getaways at Luxury Cabins in Washington
Best Cabins in Washington for Romantic Winter Escapes
Winter is a beautiful season to experience the Pacific Northwest, and staying at the best cabins in Washington brings this mountain landscape to life. The Columbia River Gorge becomes calm and atmospheric during the colder months, giving couples a chance to slow down, reconnect, and enjoy a setting that feels both intimate and refreshing. Carson Ridge Luxury Cabins offers that feeling from the moment you arrive, pairing comfort with scenery that makes every moment feel special.
Start your day with a warm drink by the fireplace as the forest outside settles into its winter rhythm. Each cabin is designed with privacy in mind, giving you room to unwind without distraction. Jetted tubs, fireplaces, handcrafted furnishings, and soft robes create a space that feels welcoming after time spent exploring the Gorge. Step outside with your morning coffee and take in views that make winter feel like a celebration of its own.
How to Enjoy Your Luxury Cabin Getaway
Around the midpoint of your stay, you may want to add a touch of indulgence. Professional in-cabin massage services offer a relaxing break, especially after hiking frozen waterfalls or wandering quiet forest trails. It is an easy way to elevate a couple’s retreat and make the moment feel even more meaningful.
There are plenty of things to do in the Columbia River Gorge during the winter. Trails near Latourell Falls, Wahclella Falls, and Horsetail Falls provide dramatic views framed by seasonal frost. If you want something more adventurous, snowshoeing in the Gifford Pinchot National Forest delivers peaceful paths and wide-open mountain vistas. Hood River is just a short drive away, offering wineries, cozy restaurants, craft breweries, and the popular Hood River Fruit Loop, which stays lively throughout the year.
Evenings at the cabin are simple in the best way. Pour a glass of wine, curl up by the fire, and enjoy the quiet of the mountains. With the stars shining bright and the forest settling in for the night, you will understand why these are among the best cabins in Washington for couples seeking a romantic winter escape. It is the perfect blend of comfort, privacy, and seasonal beauty.
The Best Christmas Getaway in Washington State
Cabin Getaways for Christmas in Washington State
Winter in the Columbia River Gorge offers an inviting mix of mountain scenery, holiday charm, and quiet places to unwind. If you are looking for a Christmas getaway in Washington State that feels both festive and peaceful, this part of the Northwest delivers the right balance for a weekend cabin getaway. Snow-dusted evergreens, small towns filled with cheer, and wide open landscapes create a setting that makes the holiday season feel special.
Though there are plenty of things to do in the Columbia River Gorge, days here move at a comfortable pace. Start with a walk on a crisp winter trail where the sun lights up the Gorge and the river reflects the season’s beauty. Visit a local winery for a glass of red by the fire or stop into nearby shops for thoughtful gifts.
Throughout the holidays, towns on both sides of the river host celebrations that set the tone for a warm, welcoming winter trip. Stevenson lights up with its Christmas in the Gorge event, complete with a Starlight Parade, cocoa crawl, and classic tree lightings. Across the bridge, Hood River keeps the festivities going with a holiday parade, wine tastings, and downtown shopping that feels lively without being rushed.
Luxury Cabins for a Romantic Winter Stay
A cabin retreat is the heart of your getaway for Christmas in Washington, and the luxury cabins near Hood River make the season feel even more memorable. Each one offers privacy, comfort, and details designed for couples looking to slow down. Jetted tubs, fireplaces, and scenic views set the stage for cozy mornings and relaxing evenings. After exploring winter trails or attending local events, returning to a warm cabin feels like its own holiday tradition.
As December moves into the quieter weeks of winter, the Gorge becomes a peaceful escape. Snow settles on the hills, the river moves steadily below, and the pace of life shifts into something gentle. This is the time to sip coffee on your porch, read by the fire, or take in the stillness that defines the season. Whatever it is you’re looking for, a winter getaway in the Gorge brings it all together.
Plan your getaway for Christmas in Washington State with a stay in these welcoming Columbia River Gorge cabins, and enjoy the holidays in a place that feels both restful and inspiring.