Quiet winter destinations allow for self-care and reflection

4. BROOKINGS, OREGON On Oregon’s southern coast, Brookings offers natural beauty, mild winter temperatures, and a relaxed coastal charm. Wide, uncrowded beaches encourage peaceful strolls,

shell collecting, and hunting for colorful sea glass. In the evening, breathtaking sunsets paint the sky in vibrant hues. “When I am by water, and there’s hardly anybody around, … my mind

really clears,” shares Gaylene Ore, 60, of Granby, Colorado. “Seeing the sun set over [the] horizon of the water is mesmerizing. It’s like you can’t get enough pictures.” Connect with nature

by wandering Harris Beach State Park, which is a prime spot for whale watching, tide pooling for sea stars and anemones, and birdwatching. Bird Island, a national wildlife sanctuary visible

from the beach, is a nesting site for tufted puffins. Whether you choose a leisurely walk or simply take a seat on the sand to listen to the waves, the ocean’s rhythm can help clear your

mind. “The water is so therapeutic, just hearing it crash against the rock walls,” adds Ore. “Walking and hearing it, to me, is beyond soothing.” From December to January, migrating whales

pass south through Oregon’s waters, though around 200 gray whales stay off the coast year-round. Watch as these gentle giants slap their tails, breach out of the water, and send sprays of

mist into the air. Chetco Point Park is another top spot to watch gray whales and spot seals basking on nearby rocks. Great Basin National Park, about an hour from Ely, Nevada, boasts some

of the darkest skies in the U.S. Alamy Stock Photo 5. ELY, NEVADA In Ely, Nevada, the Milky Way isn’t just visible, it’s kind of a show-stopper. An hour from Ely, Great Basin National Park

boasts some of the darkest skies in the United States, earning its designation as an International Dark Sky Park. Winter’s crisp, dry air sharpens the view, making the stars even more

brilliant and the night sky truly unforgettable. Though ranger-led astronomy programs pause in winter months, the park offers opportunities for self-guided stargazing. For the best views,

head to the Astronomy Amphitheater near the Lehman Caves Visitor Center. Give your eyes about 30 minutes to adjust to the darkness. To maximize your stargazing experience, check the moon

phase before you go. Great Basin’s skies are nearly free of light pollution, but a full moon can make it hard to see the stars. A new moon is ideal for catching sight of the Milky Way, along

with planets such as Jupiter, Saturn, and Mars. While much of Wheeler Peak Scenic Drive is closed to vehicles in winter, it’s open to visitors on snowshoes or skis. The park also offers a

free snowshoe loan program. Additionally, ranger-led tours of Lehman Caves, Nevada’s longest cave system, are available year-round. Winter visits mean smaller groups on these hour-long

guided tours.