It’s almost Christmas and Santa and his elves are working hard getting ready for the 25th! We might not be able to travel to the North Pole here in Northern California, but there are plenty of magical places within a short drive that are full of holiday cheer and wintery wonder.
1. Plumas County
This remote, rural county is a delight in the winter time. The towns will make you feel like you are strolling through a Christmas village.
2. Del Norte County
3. Boreal/ Donner Pass in Placer County
You'll feel like you are on top of the world at this iconic roadside stop in the Sierra Nevada. Keep your eyes peeled for the pull off right after Boreal Mountain Resort. There's restrooms and plenty of opportunities for playing in the snow. If you get chilly you can go get a cup or cocoa at Boreal!
4. Alpine County
It's not called Alpine County for nothing! This stunning and scenic place is the tiniest and least populated county in all of California... a great place to search for Santa's workshop if you ask me!
5. Lassen Volcanic National Park
Talk about picturesque. This is the closest thing to the arctic this side of the state's border.
Just look at those snowdrifts! Lassen is a must see for a winter enthusiast in Northern California.
6. Shasta County
Another destination for those of us who want to explore nature and meet (and build) Frosty the Snowman is the entire Shasta area. It's truly a winter wonderland.
7. Tahoe Donner, Nevada County
This classic neighborhood and winter play area includes a snowshoeing and cross country ski area as well as lovely homes all decorated for the holidays. It's worth a drive and is a great place to play in the snow like the elves and reindeer do up north!
8. South Lake Tahoe, El Dorado County
You know the North Pole has icicles that hang from all the toy making shops, just like these beauties in El Dorado County. If you've never experienced an icicle up close, be sure to have your camera ready - they are incredible to look at. Avoid being directly under them, however.
9. Butte County
Butte County is another fantastic place in Northern California where you can escape to the snow. There are plenty of fantastic wooded areas where Mr. and Mrs. Claus would feel right at home.
10. Your Own Home
The magic of Christmastime is that you get to bring the North Pole right through your front door and into your kitchen and living rooms. Every home, small or large, feels like a Christmas workshop when there are scrumptious holiday cookies in the oven, cheerful lights on the tree, and classic holiday tunes and the laughter of loved ones filling the air. Enjoy it!
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