Chill Out and Explore: 8 Winter Day Trips Near Rexburg, Idaho

The winter semester is full of long winter days. College life can quickly become routine as your days fill up with studying, group projects, and making the cold commute to classes. Luckily, there’s no shortage of fun and exciting day trips around Rexburg to keep your spirits lifted. 

Whether you’re thinking about a fun weekend getaway trip or just want to know how to spend your off days, we have compiled a list of the best winter trips in the area. Adrenaline-pumping activities or cozy retreats, this guide will help you plan the perfect winter outing. Grab your friends, bundle up, and let’s explore Eastern Idaho! 

 

Teton Lakes Winter Park – 8 Minutes Away

If you’re not feeling up to a winter drive, this destination is the perfect place for you. During the summer, the Teton Lakes Golf Course attracts hundreds of golfers, but during the winter months, the park transforms into a winter paradise. 

Teton Lakes Winter Park is the perfect spot for a quick getaway. With sledding hills, cross-country skiing trails, and affordable ski rentals, it’s a great place to enjoy a snowy afternoon.

 

Saint Anthony Sand Dunes – 22 Minutes Away

You might think sand dunes are just for summer campfires and fun explorations, but the Saint Anthony Sand Dunes becomes the perfect spot for a quick winter getaway when the snow falls. Grab your roommates and bring your sled. It’s an adrenaline rush you won’t forget!

 

Kelly Canyon Ski Resort – 40 Minutes Away

Kelly Canyon is the ultimate winter playground. Hit the slopes for downhill skiing, warm up with tube sledding, or take it slow with snowshoeing and cross-country skiing trails. After a day of outdoor fun, soak in the nearby Heise Hot Springs to relax and recharge.

 

Harriman State Park – 48 Minutes Away

If you’re a nature lover, you’ll adore Harriman State Park. The park, located in Island Park, offers breathtaking views and plenty of winter activities. Enjoy snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, fat biking, and even ice fishing. Entry fees are affordable ($7 per vehicle), and seasonal passes make it a great place for repeat visits.

 

Grand Targhee Ski Resort – 1 Hour 11 Minutes Away

If you’re itching to hit the slopes, Grand Targhee is the place for you. Or maybe you’ve never experienced the thrill of racing down a mountain; you’ll find trails to match your level at Grand Targhee. The resort is known for its powder-filled slopes and variety of winter activities, including snowshoeing, fat biking, and cross-country skiing. 

 

West Yellowstone – 1 Hour 26 Minutes Away

Yellowstone is stunning in winter. And West Yellowstone is the perfect gateway for snowy adventures. Try ice fishing at Henry’s Lake, explore cross-country skiing trails, or book a snow coach tour into Yellowstone National Park for an unforgettable and unique experience.

 

Jackson Hole – 1 Hour 40 Minutes Away

Jackson Hole is a must-visit destination for winter enthusiasts. From snowmobiling and sleigh rides to ice skating and snowshoeing, this mountain town has it all. It’s also a great spot to explore shops, restaurants, and local art galleries when you need a break from the snow.

 

Lava Hot Springs – 1 Hour 40 Minutes Away

If relaxation is more your style, head to Lava Hot Springs for a soothing soak in natural hot pools. It’s the perfect place to unwind after finals or to warm up after a snowy adventure.

 

Plan Your Perfect Winter Escape

Student life is about learning and making unforgettable memories. But no one wants a fun outing to be overtaken by unexpected emergencies. Don’t forget to pack all the essentials on your trip—warm clothing, snacks, water— and make sure your car is ready for the adventure!

Rexburg’s prime location means you’re never far from a winter trip. With BYU-Idaho’s Outdoor Recreation Center, stocked with essential winter gear like snowshoes, skis, and sleds, you’re set to enjoy a new adventure! Whether you’re hitting the slopes, snowshoeing through forests, or soaking in hot springs, there’s something for everyone just a short drive away. So grab your gear, round up your roommates, and make the most of this winter season!