Where to Spend Your Winter Break
Samuel Parigela
December is finally here! As the semester winds down, it’s the perfect time to plan a little getaway. Whether you have a couple of weeks or just a weekend, Southern California offers a variety of winter destinations to explore. Here are five ideas for your next trip:
Julian
Julian is a historic gold rush town, but nowadays, you’ll find apples (of practically every variety) in greater abundance than the yellow metal. It can get pretty cold during winter (Julian gets snow every year!), but there are more than enough cafes and bakeries to keep you warm. After all, nothing says the end of the year like some warm apple cider or a slice of apple pie. To keep yourself occupied, you can explore the charming shops and art galleries, hike through scenic trails or simply enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
Lake Arrowhead
Undoubtedly one of the most beautiful places in SoCal, Lake Arrowhead turns into something of a winter wonderland in the latter months when there is heavy snowfall. You can take advantage of the plentiful opportunities for winter sports, like skiing, snowboarding and ice skating, or you can opt to take a scenic drive around the lake and enjoy the breathtaking landscape. If you plan on staying overnight, there are several cabins that provide great mountain views.
Photo by Ashley Kim
Wrightwood
It may not be as well-known as Big Bear, but if you’re an outdoorsy person, Wrightwood is somewhere you should definitely visit. Mountain High, its ski resort and most popular attraction, offers thrilling runs for all skill levels and a multitude of snowshoeing and hiking trails to explore. Take a walk through the small town and check out the various small establishments that line the streets-–not to mention all the country-style restaurants that are certainly worth trying.
Solvang
A charming Danish village with windmills, horse-drawn carts and a very quaint feel, Solvang is an excellent place to visit if you’re not too keen on spending time in the mountains. Admittedly, it can get a little touristy, but it is very much worth it if you’re visiting during the holidays. Solvang takes the festive season very seriously, with their signature Julefest starting late November and ending early January. This includes parades, light shows and a winter market styled after traditional European markets, just to name a few.
Death Valley
Death Valley probably seems a little out-of-place on this list, but winter is arguably the best time to experience the national park’s stark beauty. The cooler temperatures give you the perfect chance to hike through the stunning canyons and rock formations. And if you’re lucky, you might be able to spot some wildlife, such as bighorn sheep or desert tortoises. The clear skies, far away from city lights, make it perfect for stargazing. It might get a little colder at night than usual, but don’t worry—it rarely goes below freezing!