The snow has fallen and the cold has set in – it is officially winter in North Dakota. While some people take that as a cue to stay cozy and warm indoors or maybe head south for the winter, there are others who are ready to embrace the chill and take some time to visit places within the Peace Garden State itself. Luckily, there are plenty of awesome spots to check out this winter. From beautiful lights displays to unique winter camping, there is a little something for everyone to visit on this list! Here are some of the most delightful winter day trips in North Dakota you should do ASAP:

1. A stop along this magical holiday train's route.
Canadian Pacific Railway, 1345 Valley St, Minot, ND 58701, USA
Canadian Pacific / Facebook
The Canadian Pacific Holiday Train often makes stops in North Dakota towns before crossing the border back into Canada. The train is brightly lit with stunning holiday lights that have been the favorite of many people of all ages each Christmas. You don't want to miss it when it rolls through! Check out the CP website for schedule and details!
2. The town that transforms into a winter wonderland.
Walhalla, ND 58282, USA
Frost Fire Park/Facebook
Walhalla, North Dakota is not only one of the oldest towns in the state, but also one of the most fun towns to visit in the wintertime. With places like Frost Fire that has amazing skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, and snow tubing, it is really hard to beat when it comes to fun in the snow. Read more about Walhalla and become enchanted by its winter transformation!
3. A luxurious "glampground" that is open year round.
Fort Ransom State Park, Walt Hjelle Parkway, Fort Ransom, ND, USA
NDPRD/Flickr
These unique yurts are tents that are fully furnished and heated, allowing people the chance to go camping during winter. They are located in places such as North Dakota's Fort Ransom State Park. Who wouldn't love waking up in a beautiful forest covered in snow and seeing a sunrise like this? Read more about the park in this article.

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4. The magical holiday lights walk through the park.
1300 4th Ave NW, Minot, ND 58703, USA
Minot Sertoma Club / Facebook
Minot, North Dakota has a stunning park that becomes a holiday lights display like no other each year. You can walk through it and be mesmerized by the lights, or take the route from the warm comfort of your car. Either way, it's an experience that is essential this Christmas. Check out this article for more information.
5. A cozy cabin vacation nestled in the prettiest parts of North Dakota.
12588 88th St NE, Mountain, ND 58262, USA
One Majestic Place/Facebook
A cabin like the One Majestic Place in Mountain, North Dakota (shown above) is the ultimate spot for a great winter getaway. Nestled among the frost-covered trees, you can stay nice and cozy inside or strap on your snowshoes to explore the area. Keep reading for more information on this charming cabin.
6. The Bismarck house that takes decorating for Christmas to the extreme.
2228 Kennedy Ave, Bismarck, ND 58501, USA
Chmielewski's Christmas Corner, Bismarck ND/Facebook
This house has become famous in North Dakota's state capitol and gets bigger, brighter, and better every year. The Chmielewski's Christmas Corner is covered in thousands upon thousands of glittering lights that enchant passerby and visitors every year. The welcome people to come see their beautiful home throughout December. Keep reading this article to find out more.
7. An epic winter park that's fun for all ages.
Winter Park Road, Winter Park Rd, Dalen, ND 58318, USA
Bottineau Winter Park/Facebook
The Bottineau Winter Park is the ultimate outdoor winter fun destination in North Dakota. Snow tubing, skiing, and snowboarding are a blast here. They are open every weekend. More information on Bottineau Winter Park can be found on their website.

What are your plans during winter in North Dakota? Will you be visiting any of these places or have any suggestions for other spots people should check out this season? Let us know! We love hearing from you.

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What are the best ski resorts in North Dakota?  

North Dakota is home to plenty of wonderful ski resorts that are great for most adults and young’uns alike. There are several places that are pretty much too awesome for words, such as:

  • Huff Hills Ski Area, in Mandan. This resort is about 16 miles south of Bismarck and has skiing for every skill level.
  • Bear’s Den Mountain in Fort Random features a chalet, rope tow, chair lift, and more.
  • Lake Metigoshe State Park has 250 miles of groomed trails. 

To read more about Huff Hills Ski Area, take a look at this article. You’ll learn all the reasons why people are totally obsessed with it – it's a total blast and the whole family will love it!  

What are some fun sled-riding hills in North Dakota?  

North Dakota has loads of places you’ll fall in love with at first slide. No matter your preference, you’ll find the perfect sledding hill somewhere around the state. Check out this list to get you started:

  • In Fargo, you can find the legendary Mickelson Sledding Hill.
  • The awesome Edgewood Chalet is also in Fargo.
  • In Dike West Park in the Turtle Mountains, you’ll find Bottineau Winter Park.
  • In Fort Ransom, you’ll also want to visit the “Thrill Hills” in Sheyenne River Valley.
  • Jamestown is another fun destination for all your sledding.
  • You can also find excellent sledding hills in Bismarck and Minot.

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