With winter fast approaching, you might be dreaming about jetting off to a faraway winter wonderland. Save your money, because an amazing experience can be had right here in Arizona! Alpine, a rural community in the majestic White Mountains, bears an uncanny resemblance to the Swiss Alps this time of year, making it the perfect getaway for families wanting to enjoy a snowy Christmas. See for yourself:
Settled in 1870 by a logger named Anderson Bush, this unincorporated mountain community is home to less than 200 people. It offers an escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, making visitors feel as if they’re on a European vacation.
Google/Ron Thompson
Every season in Alpine has its own attractive factors, but fall is especially gorgeous. The surrounding Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests boasts aspens whose striking autumnal foliage turn ordinary hikes into enchanting journeys.
Flickr/sneakymoose
Ample snowfall blankets the town each winter, attracting skiers, snowboarders, and families who are looking for a white Christmas. It’s hard to believe this magical wonderland exists right here in Arizona!
Facebook/U.S. Forest Service - Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests
If you need a place to spend the night, Hannagan Meadow Lodge provides a traditional ski lodge experience. Located on the scenic Coronado Trail, this rustic getaway is just remote enough without compromising modern conveniences.
Google/Hannagan Meadow Lodge
Eight rooms in the main house and eight additional log cabins allow guests to choose between bed & breakfast-style accommodations or complete privacy. Fireplaces in each room are perfect for getting all warm and toasty after a full day of frolicking out in the snow.
Google/Allison Weiss
Usually, small towns don’t have anything to write home about in the restaurant arena, but Alpine is a glaring exception. Located near the infamous Devil’s Highway, this charming diner serves some of the most sinfully delicious food you’ll ever eat.
Google/Chris Cox
Everyone raves about the sausage sandwiches, with homemade pizza and salted caramel cheesecake following closely behind. Live music and paintings covering the walls only add to the area’s already prevalent eclectic charm.
Foxfire at Alpine Website
Just in time for Christmas, the White Mountains will soon be snowcapped. Are you planning on spending some time in Alpine this winter?
Facebook/U.S. Forest Service - Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests
Have you ever been to Alpine during the fall or winter months? What was your favorite thing to do there? Let us know in the comments below!
Google/Ron Thompson
Flickr/sneakymoose
Facebook/U.S. Forest Service - Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests
Google/Hannagan Meadow Lodge
Google/Allison Weiss
Google/Chris Cox
Foxfire at Alpine Website
Want to read more about the restaurant featured in this article? Read about it, along with 10 other small-town Arizona restaurants, in 11 Rural Restaurants Around Arizona That Are So Worth The Drive.
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