Top 10 Winter Travel Assignment Destinations for Healthcare Travelers

Whether chasing fresh snow or looking to soak up some winter sun, winter is the perfect season for healthcare travelers to embark on new adventures. For thrill-seekers who can’t wait to hit the slopes or those dreaming of a warm, cozy retreat, these top 10 states offer an ideal backdrop for your next assignment. Get ready to explore destinations that pair perfectly with your preferred winter style.

Best States for Snowy Winter Adventures

If fresh powder, cozy lodges, and snowy trails are calling, these states offer endless options for snow sports, winter festivals, and breathtaking mountain scenery – the perfect way to spend the snowy days off this winter!

Colorado

With a whopping average of 56.5 inches of annual snowfall, Colorado is a winter wonderland known for skiing, snowboarding, and post-slope relaxation. In fact, the snow season can last from mid-October through May in the Centennial State!

Colorado’s iconic ski towns—Aspen, Vail, and Breckenridge—offer a stunning mix of top-tier ski resorts, cozy lodges, and charming small-town vibes, making it the perfect winter destination. These towns are ideal for travelers who want to spend their downtime surrounded by towering mountains, fresh snow, and world-class resorts.

North Carolina

North Carolina offers a delightful mix of snowy mountain adventures and charming southern hospitality. Destinations like Asheville bring a vibrant arts scene and cozy breweries to enjoy after a day in the cold. For a whimsical touch, book a horse-drawn carriage ride!

Outdoor enthusiasts can explore the snowy trails of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, which are incredibly serene during winter. The Blue Ridge Mountains and towns like Boone and Banner Elk are perfect for skiing, snowboarding, and snow tubing.

Travelers looking to unwind can drive along the famous Blue Ridge Parkway for stunning winter vistas or soak in the natural beauty of Hot Springs, where you can relax in a cozy mineral bath surrounded by scenic mountain views.

Utah

Boasting the “Greatest Snow on Earth,” Utah is a paradise for snow bunnies. Park City, Salt Lake City, and Moab provide access to renowned slopes, vibrant city life, and unique winter festivals.

For a truly unique experience, travelers can go bobsledding on the 2002 Winter Olympics Games Sliding Track (don’t worry: a professional driver will steer you through the twists and turns —bobsledding experience not required!). The state also offers several sleigh ride options for a timeless winter experience.

One of many geothermal hot springs across the states, such as the Homestead Crater offers the perfect getaway for those looking to relax in their downtime. Film buffs won’t want to miss the iconic Sundance Film Festival in Park City or stay in one of the city’s world-renowned resorts.

New York

New York offers a blend of city magic and outdoor winter fun. Upstate areas like Lake Placid and the Adirondacks provide opportunities for skiing, snowshoeing, and scenic hikes. Travelers can visit one of the many frozen waterfalls to see a magical and surreal scene unavailable during the busier tourist months. There are also several places to visit wine country for peaceful wine-tasting.

Winter in the Big Apple might make you think of Rockefeller Square at Christmas or ice skating in the city, but there is so much to do beyond the holidays in New York City. January brings about the annual Winter Jazzfest in Greenwich Village and Restaurant Week in mid-January, sure to be a favorite for all you foodie travelers. The Lunar New Year Parade is a colorful, can’t-miss event!

Michigan

Michigan’s snowy landscapes and picturesque small towns like Traverse City and Mackinaw City make it a fantastic winter destination. Travelers can enjoy snowmobiling, ice fishing, and holiday events that capture the heart of the Midwest, while Detroit offers a city experience with winter festivals and cozy coffee shops. Don’t forget to take in the Red Wings game and plan a visit to one of the state’s lighthouses.

For the adventurous traveler, there are plenty of activities, such as skiing, sledding, ice fishing, ice skating, snowmobiling, and all the other snow-laden activities wintertime travel assignments offer. The Great Lakes State has plenty of wildlife throughout the season, including Snowy Owls, birds, deer, and wild turkeys.

Best States for Warm or Mild Winter Escapes

If you’d rather avoid winter’s chill and enjoy a cozy, sunny season, these states provide the perfect blend of mild temperatures, beautiful scenery, and unique winter activities.

Hawaii

It doesn’t get any more non-winter weather than the tropical beaches of Hawaii. Winter in Hawaii offers the ultimate tropical escape, with warm beaches, swaying palm trees, and a mix of vibrant culture and outdoor adventures. Popular destinations like Honolulu on Oahu or Lahaina on Maui are perfect for soaking up the sun, exploring bustling markets, and indulging in island cuisine.

Winter is also prime whale-watching season, as humpback whales migrate to Hawaiian waters—book a boat tour to witness these majestic creatures up close. Adventure seekers can hike lush trails at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park on the Big Island or explore the Nā Pali Coast’s rugged beauty on Kauai.

Don’t miss out on snorkeling at iconic spots like Hanauma Bay or surfing at the North Shore of Oahu, where winter brings legendary waves that draw surfers from around the globe.

Florida

Florida is the ultimate winter escape for travelers craving sun and warmth. From the vibrant nightlife and beaches of Miami to the family-friendly attractions of Orlando, Florida offers something for every traveler. Wander through charming cities like St. Augustine, the oldest city in the U.S., or kayak through the mangroves in the Florida Keys for a closer look at its natural beauty. Enjoy fresh seafood, laid-back beach vibes, and breathtaking sunsets just about anywhere in the Sunshine State.

Winter is also a great time to explore iconic destinations like the Everglades, where manatees and other wildlife can be spotted in their natural habitats. Florida’s mild winter temperatures make it perfect for outdoor activities, rounds of golf, theme parks, and water sports.

Arizona

Trade snowflakes for sunshine in Arizona, a perfect destination for a winter escape filled with warmth and adventure. With temperatures averaging in the 60s and 70s, cities like Phoenix and Tucson are ideal for soaking up the sun while enjoying outdoor activities. Explore the breathtaking landscapes of Sedona’s red rock formations or hike through the iconic trails of the Grand Canyon, which takes on a serene beauty in winter.

Arizona’s desert offers unique attractions for travelers, such as hot air balloon rides over the Sonoran Desert or rejuvenating spa days at world-renowned resorts. Foodie travelers will love exploring the lively dining scenes in Scottsdale or Flagstaff.

Best States for Sun and Snow

For travelers who want the best of both worlds, these states offer sun-drenched escapes alongside snow-covered mountains, letting you choose between hitting the slopes or relaxing in the sun.

California

California is a winter wonderland for both sun-seekers and snow-enthusiast healthcare travelers. Southern California destinations like San Diego or Los Angeles provide mild weather, sandy beaches, and bustling city attractions, including Hollywood and theme parks like Disneyland. For outdoor lovers, Joshua Tree National Park offers unique desert landscapes perfect for hiking and stargazing (but watch sunset times—even the desert gets chilly once the sun goes down!).

If snow is calling, the Sierra Nevada region, including Lake Tahoe and Mammoth Lakes, provides pristine slopes for skiing and snowboarding, as well as cozy mountain retreats. Yosemite National Park transforms into a snowy paradise, where visitors can enjoy cross-country skiing and snow-covered hikes or marvel at the frost-draped granite cliffs and serene winter scenery.

Nevada

Nevada blends snowy mountain adventures with sunny desert escapes, offering winter travelers the best of both worlds. Reno and Lake Tahoe deliver some of the best skiing and snowboarding in the region, with breathtaking views of snow-dusted peaks and shimmering lakes. Travelers can also enjoy snowshoeing, sledding, or cozying up in charming mountain lodges.

For those looking for warmth, Las Vegas is the ultimate sunny destination, offering world-class entertainment, fine dining, and endless attractions. The Nearby Mojave Desert invites travelers to explore the striking landscapes of Red Rock Canyon or visit the Hoover Dam.

Secure Your Winter Assignment With TNAA

No matter your winter travel style, these states offer a range of experiences that can turn your next assignment into a memorable seasonal adventure. Whether you’re hitting the slopes or relaxing in the sun, these destinations have something special in store for every healthcare traveler.

Plus, when you travel with TNAA, you’re traveling with a full-support travel nurse agency that has your back every step of the way. From credentialing to housing, we’re here to support you throughout every assignment.

Ready to secure your winter travel assignment? Check out our available jobs and apply today!