By Jennifer Walsh

For many of us, this time of year brings excitement and travel plans. These cold winter months could leave some staying indoors, but many hotels around the globe offer wonderful outdoor activities to offset that funk. These fun programs have us excited to venture out in the beauty of winter to boost our mental health and well-being and create some wonderful memories along the way.

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These beautiful locales boast majestic, stunning views and landscapes, all which nudge us to explore and enjoy our local sports of choice. The only question is—where do we go first?The Ritz-Carlton Bachelor Gulch in Beaver Creek, Colorado, is celebrating its 20th anniversary. This venue is best known for its unparalleled ski in/ski out experience. Not a skier? No problem! We suggest the stargazing snowshoe hike, which is pure magic when the moon shines like diamonds on the snowcapped mountains. This is a don’t-miss experience!Prices vary, RitzCarlton.com/en/hotels/colorado/bachelor-gulchGstaad Palace in Saanenland, Switzerland, is known as a winter lover’s paradise since 1913—with no surprise. This exquisite spot, nestled between valleys and surrounded by snowcapped mountains, pulls you outdoors and is best known for its best-in-class skiing and snowboarding. Thrill-seekers will love the countless outdoor activities to be had, including heli-skiing, which is a helicopter ride to mostly untouched and riveting trails.Activity prices vary, Palace.ch/en/The Resort at Paws Up in Greenough, Montana, sits on 37,000 sprawling acres. This picturesque location is also home to the gorgeous Blackfoot River, which is stunning all year long. It should come as no surprise that the signature winter activity is dogsledding. The dogs’ enthusiasm for what they love to do, run, makes for a thrilling and breathtaking experience for the entire family.$180 and up/night, PawsUp.comYellowstone Vacations’ Explorer Cabins are a short walk to the entrance of Yellowstone Park. Here you’ll become immersed in the untouched wilderness that surrounds you. If you’ve always wanted to try snowmobiling, this is the place and time of year to try it. Guides will take you on a 65- mile tour, or for the more adventurous—a 90-mile tour to witness the true essence of the natural beauty that is Yellowstone and its adjoining areas. Bundle up and hold on tight… these views will leave you awestruck.$229 and up/night, YellowstoneVacations.comSiskiwit Bay and Lodge in Cornucopia, Wisconsin, is nestled amongst giant pines and cedar trees and sits along the stunning Lake Superior. Thunderous waves crash into the shore every summer along Lake Superior, but winter weather conjures stillness and awe-inspiring ice caves, which are the star attractions this time of year. Another exhilarating experience is skijoring, which combines crosscountry skiing with a dog on a harness. You provide power with skis and poles while your dog adds additional power by running and pulling, following your verbal commands. No matter what you choose to do, it will always be fun.$185 and up/night, SiskiwitBayLodge.comSacajawea Inn in Salmon, Idaho is not only the birthplace of Sacagawea, it’s also the land of exploration. Winter there is extraordinary with view of white-capped mountains all around. Expert-level whitewater rafting is not for the faint of heart, but definitely for those who love a good (wet) thrill. The crystal-clear water flows for over 100 miles and drops 3,000 feet—talk about exhilarating! Not into water sports? There’s plenty more to choose from.$135/night, SacajaweaInn.com

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