Do you remember that opening scene of “White Christmas'' when Bing Crosby and company are crooning about how great it’s going to be when they get to Vermont? You know, when they’ll be under a blanket of snow, sipping hot cocoa by a roaring fire hitting the slopes?
We don’t know about you, but that’s how we’d like to feel when thinking about taking a winter vacation. However, with air travel (and COVID-19 in general) still riddled with uncertainty, the safer option could be to take a staycation instead. And what better way to practice safe social distancing while enjoying outdoor winter activities than by holing yourself up in a winter cottage.
Ahead, 12 great winter trips that will help get you through the rest of the season. (Be sure to read our packing guide for cold and snowy weather so you don’t take more than you need!)
Everywhere in the USA
Getaway: Everywhere in the USA
Obviously, a staycation needs to be relatively close to home, so no matter where you live in the States, you can find the perfect destination for a quick winter cabin with Getaway. Getaway is a service that makes it super simple to find a secret location that’s typically located within 2-3 hours of most major U.S. cities. It encourages its guests to unplug during their stay completely — but when you’re gazing upon the snow-capped forest in what feels like the middle of nowhere, that may not be so difficult to do.
Northeast
Robert Frost Mountain Cabins: Ripton, Vermont
Set amidst a secluded forest, each of the individually decorated cabins is equipped with a kitchen, spacious bathroom and living/dining area, two bedrooms, a gas fireplace, a reading nook, and a screened-in back porch, making it the ultimate home away from home. If the fun winter activities such as snowmobiling and skiing won’t draw you to the mountains of Vermont, the nearby local microbreweries, distilleries, and maple syrup factories will.
Fingerlakes Mill Creek Cabins: Lodi, New York
How does settling into your private hot tub while watching the snowfall sound? Afterward, warm up next to the fireplace — but don’t worry, there’s also a heater. Or, if you prefer more modern conveniences, there’s always a movie on the TV equipped with Netflix, Hulu Live, and Roku. No need to worry about preparing breakfast. A complimentary basket of goodies is delivered to your porch each morning. If you feel like venturing out, wine enthusiasts will appreciate that the Seneca Wine Trail is within driving distance. Just be sure to book visits to the wineries in advance due to COVID-19 social distancing precautions.
Northwest
Rocky Mountain Ranch: Stanley, Idaho
Folks who live in Idaho know very well that the state has an abundance of outdoor activities, thanks to the fact that it’s surrounded by the beautiful snow-capped Rocky Mountains. So it makes us wonder: How is it one of the least visited states? After all, who wouldn’t want to stay at a place like Rocky Mountain Ranch? Perfectly positioned near Salmon River and, of course, those commanding peaks, there are plenty of winter amusements to keep you busy. Enjoy your stay in one of the ranch’s historic log cabins outfitted with all the modern-day amenities you need to be comfortable. You’ll feel as though you time-traveled back to the Old West, but without having to rough it.
Sheldon Chalet: Denali National Park, Alaska
If you’re looking for the glamping equivalent of a winter cabin stay, then you’ll love this luxury chalet that’s about as remote as you can get in the United States — seriously, you can only get there by helicopter. Situated ten miles from Mount Denali (the tallest peak in North America) on the only privately held piece of land in Denali National Park, the location is like something out of a movie. The luxury accommodations (sauna, fully-stocked wet bar, jaw-droppingly beautiful lounge with fireplace) won’t disappoint either. Perhaps the crowning jewel is the panoramic observation deck that offers up “pinch me” views of the Northern Lights. It just may be one of the most posh weekend cabin rentals out there.
Southwest
The Cabins at Country Road: Evergreen, Colorado
It’s no secret that Colorado has a lot of outdoor winter activities to enjoy, but this is one of those winter cabin rentals where you may want to stay indoors and chill. The rustic yet modern cabins are equipped with amenities such as a fireplace, hot tub, cozy living room, and a full-service kitchen — though if you don’t feel like cooking, the Country Road Cafe is just down the street. These cabins are more suitable for a romantic getaway than a family vacation, so why not upgrade to the Cabin Romance Package while you’re at it?
Ski In- Ski Out Cabin At Powder Mountain: Eden, Utah
Skiers rejoice! You’ll love this authentic home located smack dab in the middle of Powder Mountain Resort where 5,500 acres of snow awaits you. Simply ski or take a short walk to one of the two lifts available. Enjoy panoramic mountain views while you curl up in front of the fireplace for the ultimate apres-ski experience. Alternatively, take in the sunset while soaking your sore muscles in the hot tub. While there are several restaurants on the mountain, the fully-equipped kitchen and BBQ grill make it easy to prepare your own meals (there’s a market 20 minutes away.) There are four bedrooms, a television, a pool table, and an abundance of games, so this cabin is family-friendly — though parents may want to take advantage of the private, downstairs fourth bedroom.
West
Montana Treehouse Resort: Columbia Falls, Montana
Who said treehouses were just for kids? Two cabin-style treehouses on-site (one sleeping 2-4 the other 7) are and fully-equipped with bathrooms, heating/AC, showers/tubs, a fireplace or pit, a full kitchen, a television, Wi-Fi, games, and comfortable sleeping quarters. You’ll only be ten miles away from Glacier National Park if you’re up for a brisk walk amongst the fir trees. If skiing is more your thing, Whitefish Mountain Resort is also a hop, skip, and a jump away.
The Cabin in the Woods: Pine Mountain Club California
This quaint authentic log cabin at Pine Mountain Club is nestled amongst 1.7 million acres of forest, so it’s the perfect place to get away from it all. But don’t worry; you won’t be roughing it — especially when you slip into your Ritz Carlton king bed. The cabin is equipped with a fireplace, gas barbecue, well-equipped kitchen (including obligatory popcorn and popcorn maker), and plenty of books, games, and puzzles to help you unplug (though there is high-speed internet.) Bonus points for the complimentary bottle of wine upon arrival.
Southeast:
Pet-Friendly Cabin at the Foothills of the Smoky Mountains: Tryon, North Carolina
This cabin can accommodate up to nine guests, not including your furry friend who is more than welcome to join you on your winter staycation. This spacious retreat boasts a beautiful stone fireplace, relaxing living room area, flat-screen television, fully functioning kitchen, Wi-Fi, central heating/AC, and a washer and dryer. Take in the views of the mountains from your wrap-around porch while Fido enjoys some outdoor playtime in the fenced-in backyard. End the night by gathering around the firepit for some s’mores and stargazing.
Shadow Mountain Escape: Luray, Virginia
Located only minutes from the Shenandoah National Park entrance, Luray Caverns, and a bevy of other attractions (ahem, Blue Ridge Whisky Wine Loop), you simply cannot beat the location of Shadow Mountain Escape. Each of the appeasing timber cabins are tastefully decorated with antiques and a European touch. There are cabins suitable for everything from a romantic snowy getaway to a multi-person winter family vacation.
Midwest
Devil Track Lake Cabin: Grand Marais, Minnesota
Cascade Vacation Rentals has several properties on offer, but this one along the shores of Devil Track Lake has been newly renovated and is perfectly positioned to enjoy the surrounding territory. Take in the views from your lake-facing deck or spacious back yard that takes you right up to the lake itself. With three bedrooms and 2.5 baths, this cabin is a good option for a small family or 2-3 couples. Regardless, there’s plenty of space to dine and chill out together by the wood-burning fireplace. Jump in the car and head out eight miles to the famous Gunflint Trail National Scenic Byway where you can stop off for cross-country skiing, hiking, and wilderness watching.
Christmas Mountain Village, Wisconsin Dells, Wisconsin
The Dells may be known as the “waterpark capital of the world” in the summertime, but when the temps dip, Christmas Mountain Village becomes the epitome of a winter wonderland. Enjoy skiing and tubing by day and in your cozy cabin by night. There are also villas, timbers, cottages, and townhomes if you require more space. No matter which comfortable accommodation you choose, rest assured you’ll have all the modern-day conveniences you need at your fingertips.
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