Experience a White Christmas: These Are The US’ Top Snowy Escapes in 2025
Are you dreaming of a White Christmas? These are the top 5 places in the US to visit for a snowy escape this winter.
As the holiday season approaches, the dream of a White Christmas becomes more and more of a reality.
While much of the U.S. does get snow around the holidays, some places stand out above the rest, with consistent heavy snow throughout December that leaves a thick blanket of snow on Christmas morning!
Mike and I love spending winters in a place with lots of snowfall!
I’m from Minnesota and spent the past few winters in Steamboat Springs, so it’s safe to say I’m no stranger to snow throughout Christmas.
So, for those seeking a white Christmas this year, we’ve pulled together the top snowy escapes in the US from Alaska to Michigan!
Top US Destinations for a White Christmas Getaway
Here are the top US Destinations where you can enjoy a White Christmas this year, based on the area’s average snowfall in December.
1. Lake Tahoe, California
Average December Snowfall: 75 inches
Lake Tahoe is one of the most beautiful places all year round, but starting in late November, it transforms into a snowy playground. The region gets an average of 75 inches of snow each December, and it’s usually cold enough to keep from melting!
The snowiest town around Lake Tahoe is Tahoma, which sits on the west shore. But there isn’t much to do and see in this town, so we recommend booking a place in Incline Village or South Lake Tahoe.
No matter where you stay on the lake, you’ll undoubtedly get a lot of snow.
The vast majority of people come to Lake Tahoe, California, around the holidays for skiing and snowboarding.
This section of the Sierra Nevada mountains has 14 different ski resorts and 475 miles of official trails between them! Palisades (Squaw Valley), Northstar, and Sugar Bowl Resort typically get the best snow thanks to the heaviest annual snowfall and plenty of powder days.
But Tahoe’s winter appeal goes beyond the ski resorts. It’s also popular for people looking to go snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, snowmobiling, visit the hot springs or taking a scenic drive.
Après-ski in Tahoe is also incredible, even if you aren’t skiing. Incline Village has a relaxed upscale atmosphere with lots of fancy bars, restaurants, and high-end resorts.
South Lake Tahoe, on the other hand, is known for its lively atmosphere, breweries, local shops, and cheaper accommodations!
2. Crested Butte, Colorado
Average December Snowfall: 53 inches
Crested Butte in Colorado is another US town that truly comes into its own during December.
The remote ski town is known for its impressive snowfall (the most in Colorado). The snow here is often deep and powdery, thanks to the frequent storms that pass through the area, and there are often a few big snowstorms before Christmas!
In fact, the mountain town is usually covered from peak to valley between late November and early April.
In the winter, skiing/snowboarding is the main thing to do in Crested Butte. However, the sole ski resort here – Crested Butte Mountain Resort – is famous for its exceptionally challenging terrain.
Therefore, most people spending time in the mountain town are experienced skiers and snowboarders.
But there are other things to do in town if you are a beginner. You can ski the few easy trails in the morning or enjoy some of the excellent hiking, then spend the evening exploring the town.
There’s a movie theater, indoor golf, spas, yoga studios, coffee shops, and live music at the local bar.
The small, friendly town holds true to that classic Colorado mountain town vibe, and Crested Butte is an excellent place to visit for a white Christmas.
3. Bozeman, Montana
Average December Snowfall: 12 inches
If you’re from the northwest, you may already know that Bozeman is one of the best Christmas towns in Montana, or even the US.
The town typically receives a steady snowfall from November to March, which blankets the surrounding mountains and creates a picturesque winter setting.
As you might expect, Bozeman is a stomping ground for winter sports enthusiasts, especially if you’re into skiing. Bridger Bowl and Big Sky Resort are very close by and known for having plenty of snowfall and a ton of powder days.
Outside the ski resorts, Bozeman is an up-and-coming university town packed with shops, cafes, and restaurants with a view of the snow-capped mountains.
While visiting Bozeman in the winter, you can take a day trip to Chico Hot Springs, see a show at one of the local theatres/comedy clubs, take a spa day, or go ice skating in Bozeman.
Despite so much to do in downtown Bozeman, life feels a little more laid-back, and the people are very friendly in Bozeman, which only adds to the Christmas atmosphere!
4. Fairbanks, Alaska
Average December Snowfall: 12 inches
Fairbanks is the 2nd largest city in Alaska, roughly 6 hours north of Anchorage, and while it can be intensely cold during December (we’re talking a high of 4ºF for the month and most days below 0ºF).
But if you’re willing to brave the cold, it’s a paradise for those who love the snow and winter activities.
Since it’s so cold, the 12 inches sticks around for a long time, making a white Christmas common in Fairbanks.
Unfortunately, there aren’t very many skiing opportunities or mountain views in Fairbanks.
People come here in the winter mainly to see the northern lights. It’s one of the best places to see them because the town is located directly under the auroral oval.
You can see the Northern Lights clearly on 80% of nights with a clear sky!
Dog sledding here is popular, both for the thrill of zipping through the forest and as a way to connect with a centuries-old tradition.
Additionally, take some time to check out the local museums, like the Museum of the North and the iconic Aurora Ice Museum near the Chena Hot Springs.
5. Upper Peninsula of Michigan
Average December Snowfall: 30 inches
The Upper Peninsula of Michigan, simply called ‘the UP,’ is the best place to spend winter in the Midwest.
The region is completely different from the metropolitan areas in southern Michigan and is often covered in snow from November through April.
You can find a ton of cool stuff in the UP, including ice caves, local breweries, the Michigan Ice Festival, and even the northern lights occasionally!
The U.P. is most well-known for its outdoor activities.
Cross-country skiing is a particular favorite, with miles of trails throughout the area and several warming huts throughout the mountains where you can stop and take a break while chasing frozen waterfalls.
Snowmobiling and skiing are also beloved activities. Over 3,000 miles of snowmobile trails are groomed each winter starting December 1.
You can even venture out onto Lake Superior once it freezes over!
Regarding skiing, there are 14 different ski resorts in the UP. These don’t live up to what you’ll find in the Rockies, but it’s the best place to go skiing in the Great Lakes region.
What is the snowiest town in the United States?
Valdez, Alaska, is the snowiest town in the United States, with an average of around 279 inches of snow annually.
What states have beautiful winters?
Many US states have beautiful winters, including Colorado, California, Washington, Wyoming, Alaska, Montana, New York, and the UP in Michigan.
Are there ice hotels in the United States?
There are no official ice hotels in the United States. The closest Ice Hotel to the US is Hôtel de Glace near Quebec City, Canada.
A Final Note: Top US Destinations for a Snowy Christmas
For people dreaming of a white Christmas this year, these five towns are almost certain to come through, and they also offer a ton of fun winter activities that will make your holiday even more enjoyable!
If your goal is getting outdoors, the UP and Lake Tahoe probably have the most to offer, but if you want to check the northern lights off your bucket list, head to Fairbanks, AK!
