Dreaming of a white Christmas? Or how about snowy pines and driftingbrsnowflakes? If the season has you wishing for a winter wonderland, we've highlighted a fewbrof the country's best destinationsbrfor enjoying the magic of a frosty December. Whether you want to hit thebrslopes, relax by the fire in a cushy robe or do a little bit of both, thesebrcozy escapes will set the scene for a pristine winter vacation. Stay at one ofbrthese lodges and the cold just might seem like a good thing.
Timberline Lodge |brOregon
Set amidst an almost mythical landscape of snow-covered peaks,brTimberline Lodge, situated about 50 miles southeast of Portland, Oregon, is abrgrand refuge for snow seekers. Built in 1937, the stunning 55,000-square-footbrstructure is like stepping back in time, but with plenty of modern comfortsbr(i.e. free Wi-Fi and satellite TV). Here, you can enjoy a fireside hot cocoa bybrthe lodge's towering stonebrhearth, take in the mountain views from the outdoor hot tub or heated pool, orbrrecount the day's adventures overbrcocktails at the Blue Ox Bar. Whether you're a seasoned pro or you're strapping on skis for the first time, the diversebrterrain will accommodate all abilities. There's a reason Timberline Lodge was declared a NationalbrHistoric Landmark and draws nearly two million visitors annually—it's an awe-inspiringbrretreat for those who want to experience the majesty of Mt. Hood, one of thebrworld's most-climbed mountains.
Planning a getaway with your extended family? Accommodationsbrrange from spacious chalets that can sleep up to 12 guests to luxury condos,breach with its own style and flair. No matter which lodging option you prefer,brjust make sure you get a room with a wood-burning fireplace. If you ask us, it's a necessity on abrwinter escape. TimberlineLodge.com
Mirror Lake Inn and Spa | New York
If you're looking for abrluxury hotel that's alsobrfamily-friendly, head to the stately and historic Mirror Lake Inn and Spa justbrsouth of New York's Whiteface Mountain.brThe upscale spa resort has received AAA's coveted Four Diamond award for 33 consecutive yearsbr(and counting) and has also been named among Travel + Leisure's “World's Best Hotels” and Conde Nast's “World's Best Places tobrStay.” As for thebrfamily-friendly part? It begins with warm chocolate chip cookies at check-in.
Just nine miles from thebrLake Placid Olympic Sports Complex, the inn is a hub for family activities,brwhether your crew is into skating, skiing or snowshoeing. When you want a breakbrfrom the slopes, the inn offers a host of other activities including yoga,brafternoon tea and nature hikes. And because kids always want to swim, you'll appreciate thebrhotel's fully enclosed poolbrthat brings the beauty of the Adirondacks right to you. When it's time for a littlebrR&R in your room, you couldn't ask for cozier accommodations—rooms feature rusticbrfurniture, vaulted ceilings and expansive windows that offer panoramic views ofbrMirror Lake and the surrounding mountains. Grab a blanket, snuggle up and enjoybryour winter retreat. MirrorLakeInn.com
Alyeska Resort | Alaska
If Elsa needed a place to roost for the winter, she'd probably pickbrAlyeska Resort. Surrounded by snowy mountain peaks, this chateau-style skibrresort is a veritable winter wonderland that averages 650 inches of snowbrannually. Located about 40 minutes south of Anchorage, Alaska, Alyeska Resortbroffers a little something for everyone in the family, including a heatedbrsaltwater pool and hot tub, a scenic aerial tram to the top of the mountain andbreasy access to hiking trails. Want to experience an authentic Alaskanbradventure? Don't miss the resort's disc golf orbrglacier jet skiing—or just strap on your skis and take on the signature slopes ofbrthe Chugach Mountains.
When you're ready to unwind, head back to your room and take inbrthe views—the scenery might include mountains, glaciers or a glimpse of the sea.brCome mealtime, the resort boasts plenty of enticing options, whether you takebryour family to the top of Mount Alyeska for lunch at the Glacier Express or sitbrdown to dinner at the sleek Seven Glaciers restaurant. Whatever is on thebrdocket for your winter escape, prepare for an enchanting experience all the waybraround. AlyeskaResort.com