Winter conjures up visions of snowfall, holidays, and time spent indoors. But the cold weather doesn't need to deter your plans for outdoor fun. Whether you want to go winter hiking or just spend time breathing in the chilly air, there's something for everyone during this season. Here's where to get started on your outdoor adventure.
Hike among the sled dogs.
The snowy backdrop of Alaska beckons cold-weather travelers looking for outdoor adventure. Head to Denali National Park & Preserve where winter trails are open for hiking, skiing, snowshoeing, and Northern Lights viewing. You can also see the famous Denali Kennels, home to the only working sled dogs in a national park.
If the weather proves too cold for winter hiking or skiing, try the McKinley Explorer for a scenic railroad ride spanning 356 miles from Fairbanks to Anchorage. You can also stop by Pioneer Park, commemorating the 100th anniversary of the purchase of Alaska from Russia. This charming mock gold-rush town features replicas of pioneer log cabins, mining equipment, museums, and a Native American village.
After your adventure, warm up on post at the Holiday Inn Express Northern Lights Inn complete with complimentary breakfast, laundry rooms, and playgrounds. Ask the staff about their own winter hiking recommendations to find your new favorites.
Hike along frozen waterfalls.
Colorado is a snowy adventure waiting for skiers, hikers, and cold-weather enthusiasts to come out and play. Snow doesn't slow down hikers carefully navigating the picturesque waterfalls at The Broadmoor Seven Falls. During parts of winter, you might even see the falls frozen over!
You can also try winter hiking the Cheyenne Mountain State Park for stunning views and mule deer nosing around the trails. Mix up your winter vacation and hit the slopes at Breckenridge Ski Resort or Eldora Mountain resort which are under 120 miles from the Colorado Springs area.
After exploring Colorado, head to the new Candlewood Suites on Fort Carson. The suites feature fully equipped kitchens with stove-tops, microwaves, dishwashers, and full-size refrigerators. The lending library is also stocked with items like grills, crock pots, and board games.
Hike the white sands.
Continue your winter hiking with a stop at the Big Dune Nature Trail or a stroll along nearby Lake Lucero. When the weather dips or rain sweeps through in New Mexico, try the International Space Museum & Planetarium or Toy Train Depot for some indoor fun learn more about space, toys, and trains.
While you're in New Mexico, stay at IHG® Army Hotels on White Sands Missile Range for fully-equipped rooms, amenities, and dining options. The location is convenient to areas like White Sands National Monument, as well as the Downs Race Track and Casino Apache, to try your luck this winter.
Hike the coastal plains region.
Surround yourself in wilderness along the trails surrounding Fayetteville, North Carolina. During winter months, the temperature dips around the mid-30s and can soar into the 50s on a sunny day. As part of the coastal plains region, the surrounding hilly trails are adventurous enough for avid hikers. Start your adventure along the Garden Paths of Cape Fear Botanical Gardens or the Cape Fear River Trail for waterside views.
After a day outdoors, stop by the Airborne & Special Operations Museum Foundation to learn more about this unique group of servicemen and women. Guests go on a walk-through time to the U.S. Army Parachute Test Platoon to today's special operations unit. Visitors learn more about the Airborne’s service during World War II, Korea and the Cold War, and Vietnam along with successful operations in Grenada, Panama, and the Persian Gulf.
Fayetteville, North Carolina is also home to Fort Bragg and, of course, the historic Airborne Corps. Stay on post at IHG® Army Hotels Moon Hall featuring a range of amenities, like a free on-post shuttle.
Hike through a canyon of snow.
Utah's snowy weather can make some winter hiking trails difficult at best; however, you still have options even with a blanket of snow. Hike along the relatively easy Bridal Veil Falls in Provo Canyon for glorious views of the iconic waterfall. Another option is an easy hike along Little Cottonwood Canyon Trail to warm up under the sun. Ski resorts are scattered throughout Utah. Start with the Alta Ski Area just outside of Salt Lake City and check-out all day ski lift passes or skiing lessons.
If you’re exploring near Salt Lake City, stay at IHG® Army Hotels on Dugway Proving Ground, home to the Nation's Chemical and Biological Defense headquarters. The hotel is conveniently located near the Community Club Dinner, Dugway Mall, and Bowling Center, among other areas.
This winter, consider bundling up and heading outdoors to explore everything that our country has to offer during this beautiful time of year. The staff at IHG® Army hotels is waiting to help you plan your next adventure!
