While the West Coast often steals the spotlight with its iconic ski resorts and prominent mountain peaks, it isn’t the only place you can find a winter wonderland. Winter has its own special allure on the East Coast too.

There are the usual suspects like Vermont and New York with their fairytale-like towns that belong in a Hallmark Christmas movie, and then there are the totally underrated places that offer unique and unforgettable winter experiences.

If the latter is more your idea of a good time, keep on reading. Here are five of the most underrated places for a winter getaway on the East Coast!

West Virginia

Though more visitors are discovering the magic of West Virginia in the fall and summer, people are still sleeping on winter. The Mountain State transforms into a sort of snowy paradise, offering a plethora of amazing outdoor activities. With pristine slopes, ski resorts like Snowshoe Mountain and Canaan Valley make West Virginia a haven for skiing and snowboarding enthusiasts.

For a more tranquil experience, visitors can explore the many state parks where snow-dusted trails lead to breathtaking vistas and maybe even frozen waterfalls! One of my personal favorite state parks to visit in winter is Blackwater Falls where the usually gushing waterfall often freezes. Not only that, the park also features cross-country skiing and the longest sled run in the Eastern United States!

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North Carolina

Known for its mild climate, North Carolina definitely surprises visitors with its winter magic. Head to the Appalachian Mountains for snow-covered trails that are perfect for hiking and cross-country skiing. The charming town of Blowing Rock becomes the perfect home base, hosting Winter Fest with ice carving, winter hikes, and all the cozy mountain charm you could ever ask for!

While much of the Blue Ridge Parkway is closed to vehicles in the winter, there are plenty of beautiful places to hike nearby. If you aren’t into a full day of hiking or skiing, opt for a few hours of snow tubing! Hawksnest Snow Tubing is one of the largest parks on the East Coast with 30 different tubing lanes.

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Maine

While Maine may be famous for its lobster and coastal scenery, its winter allure is equally captivating. Acadia National Park, with its snow-covered landscapes, becomes a playground for winter activities. Try snowshoeing or ice climbing, and don’t miss the chance to explore the serene beauty of frozen lakes and snow-covered forests. For unforgettable winter memories in Maine, try ice-fishing, snowmobiling, or even dog sledding. Places like The Forks or Millinocket offer dog-sledding adventures, allowing you to mush through those scenic winter landscapes with a team of sled dogs.

There is also an extensive snowmobile trail system in Maine. The ITS connects several different Regions, including those around Rangeley Lakes and Moosehead Lake. If you prefer to keep it relaxed, coastal towns like Portland are still just as enchanting in the winter. One of my favorite Maine activities is to explore the picturesque lighthouses all along the coast!

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Virginia

Virginia may not be the first destination that comes to mind for winter activities, but it has its share of surprises! The Shenandoah Valley, with its serene winter landscape, invites visitors to explore snow-covered trails and partake in lively winter festivals. Winter is the perfect time to explore some of the historic small towns that dot the valley, like Culpeper, Woodstock and Luray. Grab a coffee or a hot chocolate and pop into the local shops or admire local artwork. Resorts such as Massanutten and Bayse offer skiing, tubing, and winter fun for the entire family.

Winter is also a perfect time to explore some of the best hidden gems in the state like Devil’s Bathtub and the Great Channels. If you can handle the cold, Virginia has Grayson Highlands State Park and the tallest mountains in the state (including Mount Rogers). They are absolutely magical in the winter months when they’re blanketed with snow! There are also plenty of “indoor” experiences to catch a break from the elements like exploring one of Virginia’s many caverns.

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Florida

While Florida might not be the first destination associated with winter (or at all for that mater), it offers a unique experience during the winter season. Escape the cold at Florida’s warm and sunny destinations, or embrace the unexpected joy of manatee season. Natural springs like Crystal River, Homosassa Springs, Blue Springs State Park and Silver Springs State Park (among many others) witness a surge of manatees seeking warmer waters, providing a one-of-a-kind opportunity for wildlife enthusiasts. With many springs within an hour or two of Orlando, exploring these beauties is an easy addition to your Florida itinerary. Depending on the place, you can paddle, tube, and maybe even swim amongst these gentle creatures. Believe it or not, Florida also has its share of historic and charming small towns, like Mount Dora, that are absolutely worth a visit.

Whether you’re craving the thrill of downhill skiing, the tranquility of snowshoeing, the whimsy of winter festivals, or even coastal vibes, the East Coast offers something for everyone. Venture beyond the usual hotspots and check out one of these underrated destinations for an unforgettable winter escape!

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Kris Maria is a hiking and travel blogger based in the Washington, D.C., area. Visit her website, krismariawanders.com, for more East Coast adventure ideas