Winter offers some of the most breathtaking and serene hiking experiences in the U.S. From snow-covered trails and frozen lakes to red rock canyons and hot springs, there’s something for every kind of hiker. Here are the top states for winter hiking, featuring some of the best trails to explore during the colder months.
1. Colorado: Snowshoeing and Enchanted Forests
Best Trail: Apex Park Loop, Golden
Colorado’s winter trails are a dream for snowshoers and hikers alike. Apex Park, located just outside of Denver, offers a 5.5-mile loop through an enchanted forest where you might spot deer along the way. Snowshoes and poles make the journey easier as you traverse trails like Argos, Magic Mountain, and the Apex Trail.
Where to Stay: Life House, Lower Highlands, offers stylish, cozy accommodations in Denver.
Where to Eat: Wildflower, a botanically inspired bar and restaurant, serves up delicious dishes like wildflower focaccia and potato croquettes with marigolds.
2. Minnesota: A Candlelit Winter Wonderland
Best Trail: Thompson County Park, West Saint Paul
Minnesota is a top destination for winter hiking, offering unique experiences like candlelit trails. Each January, Thompson County Park illuminates its paved paths with luminaries for a magical night time hike, complete with warming bonfires and free hot cocoa. The park also features a lakeside loop and designated snowshoeing trails.
Where to Stay: Lora Hotel in Stillwater, a charming retreat built in a reimagined 19th-century brewery.
Where to Eat: Revival’s St. Paul location serves comforting fare like hushpuppies and cheddar biscuits—perfect after a brisk winter hike.
3. California: Yosemite Without the Crowds
Best Trail: Yosemite Valley Loop Trail, Yosemite National Park
Winter is the best time to visit Yosemite if you want to avoid the crowds. The Yosemite Valley Loop Trail, an 11.5-mile trek, offers incredible views of El Capitan, Sentinel Rock, and Cathedral Rocks. Snow and ice can make some sections slippery, so bring snow boots or ice cleats.
Where to Stay: Yosemite Valley Lodge, with cozy accommodations and a lounge serving brandy-spiked Mariposa Coffee.
Where to Eat: The Ahwahnee Hotel’s grand dining room serves prime rib and housemade tarts in an elegant setting.
4. Arizona: Red Rock Canyons and Hidden Caves
Best Trail: Boynton Canyon and Subway Cave, Sedona
Arizona offers a warm escape from icy trails, with stunning desert landscapes and red rock formations. The Boynton Canyon hike is an easy trek, but reaching the Subway Cave requires a steep climb. Once there, hikers are rewarded with a breathtaking view of a natural rock tunnel overlooking the canyon.
Where to Stay: Enchantment Resort, featuring a luxurious 42,000-square-foot spa and direct access to Boynton Canyon.
Where to Eat: Hummingbird at Mi Amo serves energizing breakfasts like avocado toast and superfood cereal bowls to fuel your hike.
5. Vermont: Snowshoeing Through Smugglers’ Notch
Best Trail: Sterling Pond and Long Trail, Stowe
For those seeking a true winter wonderland, Vermont’s Sterling Pond and Long Trail offer one of the best snowshoeing experiences in the country. The trail runs through Smugglers’ Notch, a historic mountain pass lined with towering cliffs. The challenging 6-mile route is best for experienced snowshoers.
Where to Stay: Trapp Family Lodge, founded by the real von Trapp family, offers Austrian-inspired accommodations and 40 miles of groomed snowshoeing trails.
Where to Eat: The Bench serves the "Vermonter pie," a pizza topped with cheddar, blue cheese, apples, bacon, and maple syrup.
6. New Mexico: Hiking to Natural Hot Springs
Best Trail: San Antonio Hot Springs, Jemez Springs
New Mexico’s mild winter weather makes it an ideal destination for hikers who want a break from the snow. The San Antonio Hot Springs Trail offers two hiking options: a short 1.4-mile out-and-back hike or a longer 11.4-mile journey. The reward? A dip in naturally heated geothermal pools.
Where to Stay: Cañon del Rio, a peaceful adobe-style bed and breakfast along the Jemez River.
Where to Eat: Los Ojos Restaurant & Saloon serves hearty Northern New Mexican dishes like Frito pies and chile rellenos.
Final Thoughts
Winter hiking in the U.S. offers unparalleled beauty, from candlelit trails to snow-covered forests and canyon adventures. Whether you prefer a snowy trek in Vermont or a warm canyon hike in Arizona, these states provide some of the best winter hiking experiences in the country. So bundle up, grab your hiking boots or snowshoes, and hit the trails! For more information visit the site here:- hikgo
