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Alaska is probably not the first place that comes to mind when you are planning your winter vacation, but it’s an amazing place to visit this time of year. Here are five reasons why:

Skiing at Mt. Alyeska

The resort is located in the town of Girdwood, fewer than 30 miles from Anchorage, and the drive is a very scenic two hour affair along the Seward Highway with dramatic mountains on one side and roaring waters on the other. Mt Alyeska boasts of having some of the most challenging slopes in the state. If you don’t ski, no problem. Take the tram up to the cozy restaurant, have a gourmet meal, and take in the amazing vistas.

Hanging Out With the Locals at Healy

This town is located at the entrance to Denali National Park and is a true gem. It’s seasonal. Most places are boarded up during the winter. But a handful are open for business, and there you can mingle with the locals, a truly unique bunch. These folks are rugged, hearty, and fiercely independent. They have to be in order to brave the frigid temperatures, lack of sunlight, and ever present wildlife. I was told they all have guns and know how to use them. Plus, there’s a spirit of comradery in Alaska that’s not necessarily found in the lower 48. As one man told me, “You never drive by someone stranded on the side of the road without stopping to help. Being stranded in winter in Alaska is certain death.”

Glimpsing the Northern Lights

If you’re lucky enough, you might view the elusive Northern lights, more visible during the darker winter months and from northerly latitudes. This colorful display of light is the result of solar emissions reacting with the atmospheric gases. The various gasses in Earth’s atmosphere produce the different colors. For example, green is produced by oxygen at lower altitudes, and purplish red is produced by nitrogen. The hotel in Fairbanks employed a person whose sole job was to lookout for the Northern Lights. Guests could request a wake-up call from the hotel if and when the lights were spotted.

Soaking in the Chena Hot Springs

Just a short jaunt from Fairbanks is the unforgettable Chena Hot Springs Resort. The main event here is the natural hot spring. It may be freezing outside, but you’ll be warm and comfortable in the healing waters. There is also an ice museum, plenty of lodging, and a great restaurant and bar.

Visiting with Santa at the North Pole

If you’re in Fairbanks and you have little ones (or even if you don’t), a visit to the near-by village of the North Pole is a must. Children of all ages love it. It’s is the home of Santa Clause. Kids can visit with Santa, and parents can purchase all kinds of souvenirs and goodies.

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