Snowbirds often flock to warmer locales to escape the snow and harsh winter. On the other hand, some travelers prefer the cold winters, especially destinations that transform into winter wonderlands during the colder months. While snow limits travelers from enjoying certain activities, there are plenty of things to enjoy when enough snow is around! Snowy destinations can make for a thrilling vacation, from winter hiking to cross-country skiing. Put on a thick jacket and strap on some snow boots because these states in the US receive the most snow annually compared to the rest of the country!
10 Colorado
Receiving an average of 67.30 inches of snowfall annually, Colorado makes for a great winter getaway. Experiencing snow as early as October (until April), mountain towns that have higher altitudes are likely to experience earlier (and more frequent) snowfall, making for a great ski destination. Strap on snow boots and head to Colorado's famed ski resorts, including Eagle County's Vail Ski Resort. Otherwise, travelers can enjoy the vibes of winter by lodging at resort towns like Snowmass Village or the nature-filled town of Breckenridge!
9 Maine
Seeing an average snowfall of 77.28 inches every winter, Maine also makes for an ideal winter getaway. Though the state is a great destination year-round, there's something magical about Pine Tree State during the colder months. For a thrilling ski and snowboard destination, adventurous travelers flock to Sugarloaf Mountain to test the slopes. Otherwise, there are plenty of ways to enjoy the white wonderland in Maine while surrounded by nature. For instance, many visitors love to trek through Maine's state parks while snowshoeing, especially in areas at the Mount Blue State Park or the Bradbury Mountain State Park.
8 Alaska
Situated in the far north, Alaska receives more than its fair share of snow, around an average of 64.46 inches yearly. Besides skiing and winter hiking, Alaska offers many fun winter activities and landmarks. Witness the 1,000-mile Iditarod Sled Dog Race during the colder months or appreciate some icy sculptures at the World Ice Art Championships in Fairbanks. However, most travelers flock to the wintry state to witness the dazzling scientific phenomenon of the Northern Lights, which are best seen between August to April.
7 New York
Experiencing an average of 55.32 inches of snowfall every winter, the state of New York revels in its wintry landscape with a ton of seasonal activities. Take a bobsled ride around Lake Placid or watch the rush of semi-frozen waterfalls at the Niagara Falls State Park. Plus, New York City also has its winter charm! There's something magical about exploring NYC while being among the gently pouring snow.
6 Wisconsin
Though not as extensive as Vermont or Maine, Wisconsin enjoys its fair share of annual snowfall, about 45.79 inches on average. That means travelers seeking snowy pastures don't have to look further than Wisconsin, especially in Madison. Wisconsin's capital city boasts 20 ice skating rinks and is a great destination for indoor (and outdoor) ice skating, perfect for the whole family. Otherwise, visitors can try their hand at snowmobiling in Eagle River, reportedly the World Snowmobiling Headquarters!
5 New Hampshire
From exploring ice castles to ice fishing, New Hampshire is a traveler's new winter getaway! Experiencing around 71.44 inches of snowfall yearly, there is plenty of snow to go around this New England state. For the ultimate winter vacation: meet adorable winter pups while embarking on a dog sled, shred the slopes at Cannon Mountain, or trek the thousands of miles of snowmobile trails in the state. Families can also smell fresh pine and enjoy rows of trees while visiting New Hampshire's famed Christmas tree farms!
4 Wyoming
Some may describe Wyoming winters as harsh (with about 51 inches of snowfall yearly), but the beauty of winter in the western US is hard to ignore. Encompassing both the Rocky Mountains and the Great Plains Regions, the vast expanse of Wyoming in the winter is a treat for the eyes. Escape from the harsh cold and stay warm in any one of Wyoming's natural hot springs, especially at the Hot Springs State Park in Thermopolis! Otherwise, tourists can even feel Wyoming's Old West vibes during the colder months, from the small city of Casper to the cozy streets of Jackson.
3 Michigan
Receiving around 60.66 inches of snowfall in the colder months, the Great Lake State has travelers doing plenty in the colder months. From snowmobiling to cross-country skiing, Michigan's historic lighthouses and picturesque lakeside can still be appreciated in the winter. Admire the beauty of a Michigan lighthouse while it stands against a backdrop of a glinting sun overlooking the shores of the Great Lakes.
2 Massachusetts
Massachusetts is no stranger to cold winters, even in the busy city of Boston. With average snowfall hovering around 51.05 inches yearly, it's easy to view Massachusetts as a viable winter getaway. When visiting the state's capital city, enjoy a vacation filled with winter-themed activities, whether it's skating at Boston Common or exploring the snow-covered buildings and streets along the Freedom Trail. History buffs can learn about Boston's colonial history while enjoying the magic of snow-covered cobbled streets!
1 Vermont
Experiencing an average of 89.25 inches of snowfall in the colder months, Vermont reportedly receives the most snow out of any state in the US! The abundant snowfall invites prospective visitors to experience the charm of winter in Vermont, which is deeply rooted in its natural environment. Strap some snow shoes on and head to Vermont for a nature-filled winter adventure. Fat-bike across Vermont's forest trails, tackle the steep slopes at Killington, or cozy up in private lodgings in any of Vermont's charming bed and breakfasts!