Top Ten Winter Activities in the Southwest

Ski Utah powder.

They don't call it "the greatest snow on earth" for nothing. And with 11 ski resorts within a one-hour drive from Salt Lake City, you have plenty of options. Rent gear and take a lesson!

Check Out Spanish Architecture in New Mexico.

From the clay bricks, grass, and mud of Pueblo-style adobe structures to the arches and clay roof tiles of Spanish Mission-style buildings, New Mexico's architecture is distinctive and beautiful. You'll see some of the best examples in Santa Fe and Taos.

Enjoy Mexican food.

Whether you're in Tucson, Arizona or Albuquerque, New Mexico, spice things up with authentic Mexican meal. What's your favorite - tacos, tostadas, or tamales?

Visit Hoover Dam.

Built during the Great Depression in less than five years, Hoover Dam is an amazing engineering feat. One of the largest dams on Earth is just 30 miles from Las Vegas. Get ready to be awed.

Have an outdoor adventure.

Gather some friends and explore some of the country's most unforgettable terrain. Near Denver, head for Estes Park for close ups of the Rocky Mountains and winter fun galore. Or check out the other state parks in Colorado. Keep in mind: In the winter months, it's important to dress properly for cold and snow before you head out!

See the iconic American paintings in Denver, Colorado.

Colorado's Denver Art Museum showcases some of the greatest artwork in the United States. Don't miss the exhibit “Mi Tierra: Contemporary Artists Explore Place” in February. While you're there, explore 70,000 more treasures from America and around the world.

Ride the Grand Canyon Railway

If you’re not much of a hiker, hop on board the Grand Canyon Railway train in Williams, Arizona to cruise through the beautiful sites of the national park. The tracks will take you all the way to the South Rim of the mighty Grand Canyon.

Watch the sunset in Utah.

If you’re looking for some fantastic scenery for a sunset view, travel to the beautiful turquoise waters of the Great Salt Lake in Utah. A remnant of the massive ancient Lake Bonneville, the lake is now landlocked and its waters are salty. It is the largest lake between the Great Lakes and the Pacific Ocean, and is the largest saltwater lake in the Western Hemisphere.

Shop fresh and local.

If you’re looking to buy some fresh and local food in Colorado, check out a farmers market close to you. The farmers and vendors work hard to make sure they are providing the best to their customers all year round.

Sandia Peak Tramway.

If you’re in New Mexico and interested in the beautiful views of the Cibola National Forest, take a ride 2.7 miles up the Sandia Peak Tramway. Pack your hiking gear because once you arrive you’ll be able to explore the 11,000 square-mile panoramic view of the Rio Grande Valley and Land of Enchantment.

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