We are fortunate to have beautiful weather all year round here in the San Diego area, but if you’re like us, sometimes we crave sweaters, snow, and some winter fun. If you feel this way too here are some great winter getaways from San Diego that don’t require a plane ticket!
Mammoth Lakes- Rock Creek Lodge
Hop in the car for about a six-hour drive up I-395 to Mammoth Lakes. Here you’ll find plenty to do — from cross-country skiing to snowboarding to snowmobiling, there’s something for everyone. Mammoth Lakes boasts beautiful mountains and expansive valleys that provide the perfect backdrop for a weekend getaway. At the Rock Creek Lodge, you can stay in one of several cabins to get a true winter experience in the mountains.
Don’t forget about the opportunity to snowmobile or cross-country ski to your dinner destination at the lodge where you’ll enjoy a mouth-watering family-style meal. This experience is one that Rock Creek Lodge is known for in the area, so don’t miss it.
Big Bear-Cozy Hollow Lodge
Big Bear is a huge winter playground for outdoor enthusiasts. Skiers and snowboarders can take advantage of the pristine hills at Big Bear while snowshoe lovers can make their own path as they trek through the area. If you’re snowshoeing, be sure to pack a hearty lunch and bring along a thermos of hot chocolate! Adventure also awaits you at the zip line, where you can race over the scenery.
Big Bear also offers a snow play area where you can ride inner tubes — great for kids of any age. When you’re all done for the day, cozy up in a cabin at Hollow Lodge.
Image: yelp.com/cozyhollowlodge
Cabins are affordably priced and set back among tall pine trees to provide a tranquil atmosphere. Choose from family cabins or studio cabins, depending on how many people you’re traveling with.
While you’re at the lodge, take advantage of its location, which is within walking distance of Big Bear Village; here you’ll find plenty of shops and restaurants. All of this fun is only a two-and-a-half hour drive away from San Diego.
Lake Arrowhead Resort and Spa
If you’re looking for a relaxing mountain hideaway, Lake Arrowhead Resort and Spa is it! Located just about two hours by car from San Diego, Lake Arrowhead not only boasts its own private lake, but also plenty of outdoor and indoor activities year round. During the winter months, take advantage of the snowboarding down Snow Valley Mountain or take a trip to the nearby snow tubing park, the largest and oldest in Southern California.
Image: lakearrowheadresort.com
Once you’re done with all of the outdoor activities, return to the resort for some relaxation time in the hot tub or book a massage at the spa. Relaxation is on the menu as well as great food at three restaurants at Lake Arrowhead Resort and Spa. Whether you’re looking for fine dining or just some casual fare, there’s something for everyone.
Yosemite-Evergreen Lodge
If you’re in the mood for a bit of a longer road trip, take the six and a half-hour trek from San Diego to Yosemite’s Evergreen Lodge. Snowshoeing is a big attraction near the lodge where you can enjoy the beauty of Mother Nature’s winter landscape.
Choose from several different snowshoeing hikes, depending on just how adventurous you’re feeling! When you’re all done, visit the main lodge dining area for breakfast, lunch or dinner.
The Lodge is also home to a variety of accommodations from luxury style cabins to one-bedroom cottages. There’s even the option of custom camping which gives you the chance of experiencing the great outdoors without the hassle. You’ll arrive to a fully set-up tent site right in the woods. It’s camping like you’ve never experienced before now!
All guests at the Evergreen Lodge receive a full itinerary of events once they arrive. Activities are constantly changing, so be sure to take advantage of everything Evergreen Lodge has to offer while you’re there.
Each of these four getaways from San Diego provides a unique winter experience. Whichever you choose, you won’t be disappointed!
