Winter Wonderland Adventures with Living Vehicle
Traveling in a Living Vehicle (LV) during winter to experience snow and other cold-weather climates is a thrilling adventure for those who love the beauty of winter landscapes and winter sports. Either cozy up for a free night or more in your LV parked at a ski or snowboard resort parking lot, or choose a nearby trailer park with or without hookups. You’ll stay toasty warm and dry while enjoying your stay in sub-freezing weather.
While many people associate winter with staying indoors or escaping to warmer destinations, there are countless places in the UnitedStates where winter is a time to embrace the cold, enjoy snow-covered vistas, and experience the unique charm of cold-weather activities. Whether you're looking to ski, snowboard, or enjoy the tranquility of snowy forests and mountains, here are twelve of the best places in the U.S. to experience snow and cold weather in an LV during the winter months.
1. Aspen, Colorado
Aspen is a world-renowned winter destination famous for its high-end resorts, skiing, and snowboarding opportunities. This upscale mountain town is nestled in the Rocky Mountains and offers a winter wonderland with stunning views, excellent snow conditions, and a bustling après-ski scene. The town is also known for its charming historic district, art galleries, and luxury shops.
For travelers, several campgrounds and RV parks near Aspen, including the Aspen/Basalt Campground, are open year-round and offer access to nearby attractions and ski resorts. Aspen Mountain, Snowmass, and Buttermilk offer fantastic skiing and snowboarding options, while those looking for less intense activities can explore nearby trails or enjoy cross-country skiing.
Best for: Skiers, snowboarders, and those looking for a luxury winter experience in a cozy, snowy town.
2. Jackson Hole, Wyoming
Jackson Hole is a prime destination for anyone looking to experience snow and cold weather in the heart of the Teton Mountains. Known for its stunning scenery, world-class skiing, and proximity to Grand Teton National Park and Yellowstone National Park, Jackson Hole is an ideal winter getaway for those in an LV seeking adventure in the snow.
In addition to skiing and snowboarding at the Jackson Hole Mountain Resort, visitors can go snowshoeing, snowmobiling, or even take a scenic sleigh ride through the National Elk Refuge. Jackson Hole has several open RV parks year-round, such as the Gros Ventre Campground and Snake River RV Park. Winter is also an excellent time to visit Yellowstone’s winter wonders, including its geothermal features and wildlife sightings.
Best for: Skiers, winter adventurers, and those who want to explore the natural beauty of the Tetons and Yellowstone in winter.
3. Lake Tahoe, California/Nevada
Lake Tahoe, straddling the border between California and Nevada, is one of the most beautiful destinations in the U.S. during winter. The area is famous for its pristine lake, surrounded by snow-capped mountains, making it a popular destination for winter sports like skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing.
Lake Tahoe has several ski resorts, including Heavenly Mountain, Northstar, and Squaw Valley, all offering incredible slopes for skiers and snowboarders. For RV travelers, several campgrounds around the lake, including the Tahoe Valley Campground, are open year-round, providing easy access to the lake and surrounding mountains. The region also offers winter cross-country skiing, sledding, ice skating, and cozy villages with excellent dining and shopping.
Best for: Skiers, snowboarders, and RV travelers looking for an all-around winter sports destination.
4. Vail, Colorado
Vail is one of the premier ski destinations in the U.S., offering vast ski slopes, high-end accommodations, and an idyllic mountain town atmosphere. It’s an ideal winter location for those in an LV who want to experience the best of skiing, snowboarding, and winter culture in Colorado.
Vail boasts over 5,000 acres of skiable terrain and is home to a charming pedestrian village with luxury shops, fine dining, and après-ski activities. RV travelers can stay at the East Vail Campground, which is open during winter and provides easy access to both the slopes and the town. Beyond skiing, visitors can enjoy snowshoeing, ice skating, or take in the winter wonderland of Vail's snow-covered landscape.
Best for: Ski enthusiasts, those seeking luxury in a snowy setting, and travelers who want a classic Colorado ski town experience.
5. Park City, Utah
Park City is one of the most famous ski resorts in the U.S., offering a wide range of winter activities, from world-class skiing and snowboarding to snowshoeing and tubing. The town is picturesque, with charming historic buildings and a lively atmosphere, especially during winter.
The Park City Mountain Resort boasts the largest ski area in the U.S., offering more than 7,300 acres of terrain. LV travelers can stay at the KOA Park City Campground, which provides both winter camping options and easy access to the resort. The town also hosts the famous Sundance Film Festival each January, making it a lively hub for cultural events. You can explore the charming Main Street, filled with boutique shops, cafes, and art galleries if you prefer something more relaxed.
Best for: Skiers, film buffs, and those looking for a vibrant, festive winter atmosphere.
6. Mount Hood, Oregon
Mount Hood, located just outside Portland, Oregon, is a popular winter destination for outdoor lovers seeking snowy adventures. The mountain is home to multiple ski resorts, including Timberline Lodge, which offers year-round skiing and snowboarding, and Meadows Ski Resort, which boasts diverse terrain.
Mount Hood is an excellent base for snowboarding, skiing, and cross-country skiing during winter. RV travelers can stay at campgrounds like the Mount Hood Village RV Resort, which is open year-round and offers full amenities. Beyond skiing, visitors can enjoy snowshoeing, ice climbing, and even snow tubing. The nearby Columbia River Gorge also provides opportunities for scenic drives and exploring the area's stunning waterfalls.
Best for: Skiers, snowboarders, and outdoor adventurers looking for various winter activities.
7. Breckenridge, Colorado
Breckenridge is one of the most iconic mountain towns in Colorado, known for its charming Victorian architecture, world-class ski slopes, and vibrant winter activities. The town is famous for its snow, which provides excellent skiing and snowboarding conditions at the Breckenridge Ski Resort.
For RV travelers, there are several campgrounds near Breckenridge, such as the Tiger Run RV Resort and the Breckenridge Campground, where visitors can enjoy easy access to the resort and the surrounding mountains. Beyond skiing, Breckenridge offers opportunities for snowshoeing, ice skating, and sledding. The town also boasts a lively après-ski scene, with excellent restaurants, breweries, and shops.
Best for: Skiers, snowboarders, and those seeking a charming winter town with a mix of outdoor activities and cozy amenities.
8. Whitefish, Montana
Whitefish, located in the northwest corner of Montana, is a hidden gem for winter RV travelers seeking a more laid-back, less crowded alternative to the major ski resorts in Colorado and Utah. Whitefish Mountain Resort offers great skiing and snowboarding with stunning views of Glacier National Park and the surrounding Rocky Mountains.
During the winter months, Whitefish is a peaceful, snowy retreat. The town itself offers a quaint downtown area with local shops, restaurants, and breweries. RV travelers can stay at the Whitefish RV Park, which is open year-round and provides easy access to both the ski resort and the town. In addition to skiing and snowboarding, Whitefish offers snowshoeing, ice fishing, and the chance to explore the nearby Glacier National Park in its snow-covered splendor.
Best for: Skiers, snowshoers, and those looking for a quieter, more off-the-beaten-path winter destination.
9. Mount Rainier National Park, Washington
Mount Rainier National Park is one of the most majestic places to experience winter in the Pacific Northwest. The park receives heavy snowfall each year, creating a true winter wonderland. RV travelers can explore snow-covered trails, take in panoramic views of the snow-capped peak, or enjoy snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and even downhill skiing at the nearby Crystal Mountain Resort.
The Longmire and Cougar Rock campgrounds are open year-round and offer great RV spots. The snow-covered landscape around Paradise is incredibly scenic in winter, with views of the iconic Mount Rainier towering above the surrounding forests and valleys.
Best for: Nature lovers, snowshoers, and winter explorers who want to experience a pristine, snow-covered national park.
10. Lake Placid, New York
Lake Placid, located in the Adirondack Mountains of New York, is a classic winter destination with a mix of outdoor activities and a rich Olympic history. The town has hosted two Winter Olympics (1932 and 1980) and offers a range of activities such as skiing, snowboarding, ice skating, and tobogganing.
Lake Placid is also home to the Olympic Center, where visitors can explore Olympic history and watch live events. RV travelers can camp at the Lake Placid/Whiteface Mountain KOA, which provides easy access to Olympic sites and ski resorts like Whiteface Mountain. Beyond skiing, visitors can enjoy cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and even ice climbing in the nearby High Peaks Wilderness.
Best for: Winter sports enthusiasts, Olympic history buffs, and those looking for an iconic winter destination.
11. Leadville, Colorado
Leadville is one of the highest towns in the United States and offers a unique and less crowded winter experience compared to the larger ski resorts in Colorado. The town, with its rich mining history and old-school charm, is nestled in the heart of the Rockies, offering plenty of opportunities for outdoor winter activities like skiing, snowshoeing, and snowmobiling.
Leadville is surrounded by breathtaking alpine scenery, and the nearby Ski Cooper offers great skiing without the crowds. RV travelers can camp at the Leadville RV Park or nearby campgrounds that are open year-round. The town also has several historical sites, including the National Mining Hall of Fame, and winter visitors can take advantage of the quieter, peaceful atmosphere to explore the area.
Best for: Skiers, snowshoers, and history enthusiasts looking for a less touristy winter getaway.
12. Northern Michigan (Traverse City, Cadillac, and Sleeping Bear Dunes)
Northern Michigan offers a variety of winter experiences, from skiing and snowmobiling to exploring beautiful national parks and lakeshores. Traverse City, Cadillac, and Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore are popular winter destinations that provide stunning winter landscapes, quiet forests, and a chance to experience the region’s snowy charm.
Snowmobiling is one of the most popular activities in the area, with thousands of miles of trails to explore. There are also excellent opportunities for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing, and visitors can enjoy the scenic beauty of Sleeping Bear Dunes covered in snow. Several campgrounds around Traverse City and Cadillac offer year-round accommodations for RVs, and the area provides an excellent blend of outdoor adventure and small-town charm.
Best for: Snowmobilers, nature lovers, and those seeking a cozy, peaceful winter retreat in the heart of the Great Lakes region.
Why Choose a Living Vehicle?
Every LV is a genuine four-season vehicle meticulously crafted for year-round use. With rigid foam insulation and redundant electric and propane furnace heat sources, you can stay warm and cozy even in the coldest conditions. The LV is explicitly designed for extended living, thriving in both hot summer and cold winter conditions. Each unit features a dual-zone European-style mini-split HVAC system powered off-grid, ensuring you can maintain a comfortable temperature no matter where your adventures take you.
One of the LV's standout features is its conditioned basement, which keeps tanks, plumbing lines, and sensitive electronics at the ideal temperature range—no heating pads required! For those who want to take their adventures to the extremes, the 4-Season Option Package offers even more capable temperature ratings.
Additionally, the LV is equipped with all-weather running gear and tires, allowing you to venture beyond dry, paved roads to discover hidden gems. The hybrid handmade chassis provides a robust structural foundation, while the all-aluminum frame ensures durability. With a rear incline on the tail, the LV boasts an increased departure angle and higher ground clearance of over 16 inches, making it perfect for traversing undulating terrain.
Traveling in an LV offers a unique and adventurous way to explore the diverse landscapes of the United States. With its exceptional design for year-round use, the LV is perfect for those who want to experience the beauty of nature in all seasons and travel year-round in an LV. Each season offers stunning scenery and unforgettable experiences.
Embrace the Cold
Whether you're seeking adventure on the slopes or a peaceful retreat in a snowy mountain town, the U.S. is filled with incredible places to enjoy winter's beauty and embrace the cold.
These 12 destinations are our top picks for the best places to travel year-round. They showcase the stunning landscapes and experiences that await you, offering a range of activities and stunning winter landscapes, perfect for those looking for snow and cold weather climates.
Traveling in an LV offers a unique way to explore the beauty of the United States, especially during the cold weather seasons. With its exceptional design and features, the LV is the perfect off-grid trailer for those seeking adventure and comfort in winter.