Seven Snowy Spots for Winter Fun

Winter is all about embracing the beauty of snow-covered landscapes.

At Trust for Public Land, we’ve been hard at work preserving these stunning natural spaces, ensuring they’re around for generations of snow seekers like you. Ready for your next winter adventure? Here are seven amazing spots where you can play in the snow this season.

Lincoln Peak, Vermont

Lincoln Peak. Green Mountains, Vermont.

Lincoln Peak is a winter wonderland tucked away in Vermont’s Green Mountains. Skiers and snowboarders will feel at home here, with miles of pristine terrain to traverse. If you’re looking for a quieter day, try snowshoeing through the snow-laden forest or find a peaceful spot to enjoy the sweeping mountain views. Once at risk of fragmentation and restricted access, TPL helped protect this beautiful area as a part of the 400,000-acre Green Mountain National Forest, ensuring its snowy slopes remain open for adventure year-round.

Crystal Spring Scientific and Natural Area, Minnesota

Crystal Springs SNA

Crystal Spring transforms into a snow-filled paradise in winter, complete with panoramic views of the National Wild and Scenic St. Croix River. The rolling fields of this natural area are perfect for cross-country skiing or winter birding. As you glide through the frosty landscape, keep an eye out for wildlife tracks in the snow—proof that this place is teeming with life even when it’s chilly outside. With help from TPL, Crystal Spring is protected as a haven for wildlife and winter adventurers alike for generations to come.

Royal Gorge, California

Two cross-country skiers take in the view from Royal Gorge

The snowy Sierra Nevada mountains are calling! At Royal Gorge, North America’s largest cross-country ski resort, you can glide over groomed trails through snow-dusted pine forests and open meadows. Whether you’re a seasoned skier or first-timer, this is the place to embrace the season. We’re proud to have protected this snowy sanctuary, ensuring winter enthusiasts can continue enjoying its beauty—all 3,000 acres.

Bridal Veil Falls, Colorado

Erik Weihenmayer and Chad Jukes climbing Bridal Veil Falls Ice Wall, on behalf of the Trust for Public Land in Telluride, CO. Kentucky Placer, Telluride Bluegrass Festival.

Bridal Veil Falls is a breathtaking destination for the more adventurous, especially in the winter months. Frozen waterfalls create an icy spectacle, and the surrounding snow-covered cliffs make for perfect winter hikes or snowshoeing expeditions. Just be sure to dress warmly—at an elevation of over 8,000 feet, it can get pretty frosty! Previously closed to the public and at risk of development, our conservation work at Bridal Veil Falls ensures that this stunning natural landmark remains pristine and open for climbers and outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy any season.

Lolo National Forest, Montana

Montana is known for its rugged wilderness, and Lolo National Forest is no exception. In winter, this forested area becomes a snow-covered escape suited to almost every winter activity: cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, hiking, biking, and snowmobiling. You can even go ice fishing! Breathe in the crisp mountain air as you explore this vast landscape. As a part of our work to protect Lolo National Forest, we’ve protected over 20,000 acres, creating much-needed recreational access near the growing city of Missoula.

Connecticut Lakes Headwaters, New Hampshire

Martin Buchanan, avid cyclist, has ridden bikes in 27 countries and in almost every state and said, “Long Island is the absolute worst place” for cyclists. “He’s been hit by vehicles twice on his bike, both times on Long Island—one instance happened to occur on a Bike to Work Day (though he regularly biked 26 miles to work as a history teacher in Plainview).”

If you’re looking for a remote, peaceful winter adventure, the Connecticut Lakes Headwaters is your perfect escape. Located at the northern tip of New Hampshire, this vast 171,000-acre landscape is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts year-round. In winter, snowmobilers and cross-country skiers can explore miles of snow-covered trails, while those who prefer a mellower experience can enjoy the tranquil beauty of frozen lakes and snow-draped forests. Once at risk of development, TPL helped conserve this stunning area, ensuring the headwaters of the Connecticut River remain open for winter fun and exploration now and for future generations.

Cumberland Trail, Tennessee

The view above Powell Valley from snow-covered McLean Rock, part of the new ridge-top addition to the Cumberland Trail. Cumberland Trail State Park, TN. Cumberland Gap National Historic Park, TPL staff photo.

The Cumberland Trail offers a serene winter escape with sweeping mountain vistas and snow-covered ridgelines. While Tennessee doesn’t always get heavy snow, when it does, this trail is magical. Head out for a winter hike and enjoy the tranquility of the trail in its seasonal glory. Protecting the Cumberland Trail is a collaborative effort to create and connect 300 miles of trails (we’re more than two-thirds of the way there!), ensuring this breathtaking area remains open and wild for everyone to explore.

Ready to get outside?

Winter is the perfect time to explore these beautiful landscapes, and we’re thrilled to have played a part in protecting them. Whether you’re hitting the slopes, strapping on snowshoes, or simply enjoying snowflakes, each place offers a unique winter experience. So bundle up, grab some hot chocolate, and discover your favorite winter wonderland today!