Dog's Life
Winter Destinations
By Paula Felps
Although summer is oftentimes viewed as the best time for “getting away from it all,” winter weather shouldn’t keep you and your four-legged companion from enjoying a great escape together. Planning a winter vacation can add some extra fun to short days and cold nights, and it will also help you discover some brand new ways for you and your dog to enjoy each other’s company.
One of the immediate benefits you’ll notice is that, for many resort communities, the winter is the “quiet” season. Oftentimes, that means better rates for you and your dog, and fewer crowds. In short, the world becomes your personal playground—and here are five great places to go stay and play:
Whidbey Island, Washington: This gorgeous resort area is one of nature’s best-kept secrets with amazing views (it forms the northern boundary of Puget Sound). And during the winter months, it becomes a paradise that’s both affordable and enjoyable, whether you have two legs or four. Fort Ebey State Park, Ebey’s Landing National Historical Reserve, and Joseph Whidbey State Park are just some of the scenic places you can visit for an afternoon of frolicking in the snow or just enjoying the view with your best friend. On warmer days, enjoy the dog-friendly beaches inside these parks, or stroll through the quaint environment of this town, which is filled with antique shops and galleries (some of these are open to you both). At the end of the day, the aptly named FabView Getaway will welcome you and your dog with a private cottage that offers great views of the snow-covered Olympic mountains; turn on the gas fireplace at night and rest up for another day of fun!
New York City, New York: Not all winter fun has to involve treks in the snow; in the Big Apple, you and your friend can soak in the bright lights of the big city with a day (or two). At Canine Styles (www.caninestyles.com)––which now has three locations throughout New York––you’ll find options that range from billowy dog beds in sizes big and small to seasonal gifts. Want to take in the sights? From Central Park to Ground Zero, New York Dog Tours offer three different doggie tours (advance tickets are required). And after you’ve walked the pavement all day, relax at the Loews Regency Hotel, where your companion enjoys a welcome gift that includes a bowl, a special ID tag, and more!
Lake Elmore, Vermont: As New England’s winter sports capital, Vermont has plenty of destinations that turn winter days into glorious, snow-covered play dates for you and your best friend. Chase snowballs, take some hikes along scenic routes, or strap on the snowshoes and set out on an adventure together. After a day on the trails, enjoy a well-deserved night at the dog-loving Phineas Swann Inn in nearby Montgomery Center, which is stocked with special dog towels and even has a dog spa. Completely devoted to four-legged guests (and their companions), Phineas Swann Inn offers exceptional amenities for tail-wagging visitors. In the morning, rise and shine and hike the snow-covered trails near the property or explore the base of Jay Peak Mountain together.
Jackson Hole, Wyoming: This beautiful part of the United States offers spectacular views throughout the year, but in the winter, the dusting of snow makes it an absolute wonderland. This dog-friendly city welcomes both you and your dog, and you can get a great view of the area by visiting the Bridger-Teton National Forest. Good news—when you’re ready to call it a day, you can both relax in front of the fireplace in your room at the 49’er Inn & Suites.
Crested Butte, Colorado: On the slope of Crested Butte Mountain, you’ll find a beautiful and peaceful place to enjoy the brisk offerings of winter. Enjoy the Ruby Rover Romp (includes one hour of supervised outdoor play, a neighborhood on-leash saunter, water, treats, and doggie digital photos) and other dog amenities at The Ruby of Crested Butte (www.therubyofcrestedbutte.com) or even get a pet portrait made during your stay. San Moritz Condominiums also offers the perfect place for relaxing with your best friend in front of a crackling fire at night. When dawn breaks, you’re no more than one-half mile away from breathtakingly beautiful snow-covered country that’s designated for snowshoeing with your dog. As an added bonus, you’ll also enjoy gorgeous views of the Rocky Mountains.
