Experience The Swiss Alps Of Arizona In This Tiny Mountain Town
By Katie Lawrence|Published November 21, 2018
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Katie Lawrence
Author
Katie Lawrence is a Southeast Texas native who graduated 18th in her high school class with a GPA of 4.25. She attended college in the Houston area and began writing for OnlyInYourState in 2015.
Today, Katie writes, edits, and performs several other tasks for OnlyInYourState and has never been more passionate about a job before. Outside of work, you can likely find her curled up on with a hot cup of coffee, practicing yoga, baking, or exploring the beautiful Lone Star State (in particular, the vast and mystical West Texas desert).
With winter fast approaching, you might be dreaming about jetting off to a faraway winter wonderland. Save your money, because an amazing experience can be had right here in Arizona! Alpine, a rural community in the majestic White Mountains, bears an uncanny resemblance to the Swiss Alps this time of year, making it the perfect getaway for families wanting to enjoy a snowy Christmas. See for yourself:
Settled in 1870 by a logger named Anderson Bush, this unincorporated mountain community is home to less than 200 people. It offers an escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, making visitors feel as if they're on a European vacation.
Every season in Alpine has its own attractive factors, but fall is especially gorgeous. The surrounding Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests boasts aspens whose striking autumnal foliage turn ordinary hikes into enchanting journeys.
Ample snowfall blankets the town each winter, attracting skiers, snowboarders, and families who are looking for a white Christmas. It's hard to believe this magical wonderland exists right here in Arizona!
If you need a place to spend the night, Hannagan Meadow Lodge provides a traditional ski lodge experience. Located on the scenic Coronado Trail, this rustic getaway is just remote enough without compromising modern conveniences.
Eight rooms in the main house and eight additional log cabins allow guests to choose between bed & breakfast-style accommodations or complete privacy. Fireplaces in each room are perfect for getting all warm and toasty after a full day of frolicking out in the snow.
Usually, small towns don't have anything to write home about in the restaurant arena, but Alpine is a glaring exception. Located near the infamous Devil's Highway, this charming diner serves some of the most sinfully delicious food you'll ever eat.
Everyone raves about the sausage sandwiches, with homemade pizza and salted caramel cheesecake following closely behind. Live music and paintings covering the walls only add to the area's already prevalent eclectic charm.
