Travelers Flock to State and National Parks This Winter
Visiting a state or national park might seem like old hat to you in the spring or summer. You know that you can take a dip in a river or lake, cook food over an open flame and watch the stars at night. You might think that these parks are only suitable for vacations that take place in the warmer months. State and national parks offer just as many activities and attractions during the colder months as those parks do in the summer.
Great Views
The views that you see during the spring and summer at state and national parks have nothing on the views that you'll see in the winter. Imagine seeing that huge lake completely empty with a thin coat of ice across the top, or think about how gorgeous those mountains and hills will look when covered in snow. With a pair of snowshoes strapped to your feet, you can up close and personal with those views. Take plenty of pictures to show your friends and family back home before you relax with a mug of hot chocolate or coffee.
Plenty of Activities
Hiking with snowshoes is just one of activities that you can enjoy in the winter. Some state and national parks have partnerships in place with skin mountains and resorts that let you ski or snowboard down the mountain. If you need some help, you can take lessons from an expert first. You may also have the option of horseback riding through the wintery mountain trails or ice skating right on that frozen lake. There are plenty of other activities that you'll enjoy as well, including ice fishing and backcountry skiing.
Special Activities
Before planning a trip to a state or national park, take a look at tweets by Bluegreen Resorts and other companies. Many travel companies and websites use Twitter as a way to tell travelers about special activities and events taking place all year round. State parks often offer activities designed for the whole family. You might have the chance to take a hike and learn about what native animals do during the colder months, take arts and crafts classes to make ornaments and holiday decorations or go caroling with a group. Some parks even offer sleigh rides and bring in Santa for the little ones.
Heated and Equipped Cabins
Winter is the perfect time of year to leave your camp stove, sleeping bags and other equipment at home. Instead of sleeping out under the stars, you can enjoy a stay in a heated cabin with a private bathroom and private bedrooms. Most cabins also come with a fully equipped kitchen, a television for those days when it's just too cold outside and a screened porch or patio for watching the snow fall. The only things you need to bring with you are your kids and some warm clothing. Always check with the park first to ensure that it has cabins available before you leave.
State and national parks exist all across the country. While these parks offer plenty to do in the warmer months, you can still have fun in the winter. You can learn about local animals, make holiday decorations and enjoy other activities, and you can fall asleep every night in a comfortable heated cabin.
