Need to escape the city for a few days? Want a change of pace or change of scenery? Why not gather the whole gang for a winter family vacation? Whether you’re craving an adventure action-packed weekend or a relaxing getaway, Lake Arrowhead has something for everyone.
Living in Southern California, people often miss out on getting a proper winter full of snow and all of the activities that come with it. While surfing all year round has its perks, you can’t ski down a sandy beach. Luckily, within just 90 minutes, you can leave Los Angeles behind and embrace all that winter has to offer in Lake Arrowhead.
Embrace the Great Outdoors
During the winter season, there are often large Pacific Storm systems that bring lots of snow and turn the town of Lake Arrowhead into a winter wonderland. For a family ski or snowboard vacation, Rim Nordic offers a groomed trail system with tracks set for classic skiing. There are also skating lanes on all trails except the snowshoe trails. For those wanting a truly magical experience in the outdoors, snowshoers are encouraged to snowshoe “off trail.” With 10 miles of groomed trails, there is something for everyone of all levels, including beginners, intermediate, and expert skiers. Rentals for both cross country skiing and snowshoeing are available on site at Rim Nordic. In addition, guests can book lessons with trained professionals.
Just across the street from Rim Nordic Ski Area, is Snow Valley. With more than 10 lifts and a fully featured terrain park, Snow Valley is one of Southern California’s premier ski locations. The slope is friendly to participants of all skill levels. You can also sign up for lessons for those wanting to get better at skiing or snowboarding. If you’re not into going down winter slopes at fast speeds, you can also consider cross country skiing or snowshoeing.
Experience the Magic of Santa’s Village
Opened on Memorial Day in 1955, more than a month before Disneyland, Santa’s Village was the first franchised amusement park. The park was originally built on 15 acres, and has continued to expand since then. Many Southern California residents have visited Santa’s Village as children as it became one of the biggest tourist attractions in the region. This iconic Christmas experience was a tradition for many families during the holiday season. It is estimated that over 5 million people visited Santa’s Village during its 43 years of operation. Today, Santa’s Village is a 220-acre, North Pole-themed adventure park in the Skyforest area of Lake Arrowhead.
Every year, SkyPark at Santa’s Village transforms into a dazzling Christmas Winter Wonderland. Experience the nostalgia of an “Old World Christmas in the Woods” with your family and create life-long memories with the ones you love. Join Santa for a whole hearted breakfast party and join Mrs. Claus for a special tea party. There are also plenty of exciting entertainment such as puppet shows, tree lightings, and interactive storytelling throughout the park with the Northwoods characters. You can also make cookies, or craft gingerbread houses with Santa’s Elves holding special crafting workshops.
Take a ride on the Northwoods Express Train Ride and learn more about the village and the Land of Sweets. It’s just as enjoyable for kids and adults alike. For a bit more action, visit the Silver Bells Arena in the SkyPark at Santa’s Village. In the winter, the Silver Bells Arena skating rink offers ice skating for people of all ages.This rink provides hours of fun for everyone at all skill levels. Santa’s Village is a must on your list of things to do when planning your winter family vacation.
Planning Your Winter Family Vacation
When planning your winter family vacation, you’ll be happy to know that there is a wide variety of different lodging options in Lake Arrowhead. In fact, there are 400 guest rooms in hotels, vacation cabin rentals, condos, rustic cabins, lodges, resorts, and more! From cozy cabins and charming inns, to historic lodges, turnkey vacation homes, and upscale hotels, you’ll find the perfect place for your winter family vacation. To learn more about all of the places you can stay, check out our Lake Arrowhead Lodging blog here.
To find out more about where to eat and what to do, visit our website today! Stay up to date with events and learn more about the members of the Lake Arrowhead Chamber of Commerce by following us on social media: Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and Pinterest.
