Hey, powder chasers and chill-seekers—tired of the same ol’ mega-resorts with lift lines longer than your morning coffee run? This winter, travelers are ghosting the usual suspects and chasing real mountain magic (or beachy soul, depending on your vibe). Airbnb just dropped their hottest trending destinations, and the list is pure gold for anyone craving adventure with a side of authenticity. No velvet ropes, no overpriced champagne—just charm, stories, and epic days ahead. Let’s unpack the top six (with a Colorado twist we’re sliding in at #4 😎).

1. Brighton, Utah
   Think locals-only pow stashes and zero attitude. Brighton’s got that retro ski hill energy where $80 lift tickets still exist and the après is a cozy dive bar with live bluegrass. Perfect for families who want big-mountain thrills without the big-mountain price tag.
2. McCall, Idaho
   Snowmobiling across 500+ miles of groomed trails? Check. Soaking in natural hot springs under a blanket of stars? Double check. McCall’s Payette Lake freezes solid for ice skating, then thaws into a summer playground. Year-round stoke in one tiny package.
3. Anna Maria Island, Florida
   Swap ski boots for bare feet. This seven-mile barrier island is all pastel cottages, dolphin cruises, and zero high-rises. Winter temps hover in the 70s—ideal for kayaking mangrove tunnels or biking to the Rod & Reel Pier for fresh grouper sandwiches.
4. Crested Butte, Colorado 🏔️
   The original Colorado gem that still flies under the radar. CB’s Extreme Limits terrain will test your edges, while the town’s Victorian storefronts ooze 1880s mining history. Hike to wildflower meadows in summer, fat-bike groomed singletrack in winter, or just sip a local IPA at the Eldo while the alpenglow hits. Pro tip: snag a ski-in/ski-out condo at elkhornlodging.com—hot tubs, gear storage, and zero parking stress included. Your legs (and wallet) will thank you.

Crested Butte’s iconic Elk Ave—real and non-corporate.

1. Bay St. Louis, Mississippi
   Small-town Gulf Coast magic with a side of Mardi Gras flair. Stroll the beachfront arts district, slurp oysters fresh off the boat, and catch live jazz in a 100-year-old train depot. Winter here means 60-degree days and zero crowds—pure Southern soul.
2. Hermosa Beach, California
   Endless summer vibes year-round. Rent a cruiser bike, hit the Strand for 20 miles of ocean views, then refuel with fish tacos at a beachside shack. Surf lessons at sunrise, volleyball tournaments at dusk—this is laid-back SoCal at its finest.

Ready to book your own off-grid adventure? Crested Butte’s calling, and elkhornlodging.com has the coziest cabins and condos waiting. Lock in your dates before the secret’s out! 

Book now at elkhornlodging.com