Although it might be a bit chilly outside, Utah is still a winter wonderland filled with lots to do and explore during the colder months. If you're curious to know more, check out the following unforgettable places to visit in Utah in winter.

1. Bear River Migratory Bird Refuge, Brigham City

From March through November, the Bear River Migratory Bird Refuge is home to approximately 1,200 bald eagles. You can also see hawks, northern harriers, and prairie falcons when you visit. Tundra swans usually stay until the end of December too. Remember to bring your camera and take the 12-mile auto tour, which makes a loop through the refuge. You can also visit the James V. Hansen Wildlife Education. Here you'll experience interactive displays and a cool movie.

2. Zion National Park

Why visit Zion National Park in the winter? Well, since it's less crowded and stunningly beautiful, Zion is truly one of the best places to visit in Utah in December.

3. Utah Olympic Park, Park City

Utah’s Olympic legacy lives on at Utah Olympic Park in Park City. When you go, visit the Alf Engen Ski Museum and George S. and Dolores Doré Eccles 2002 Olympic Winter Games Museums for free. You can also take a terrifying ride on the Winter Comet Bobsled while you head here during winter in Utah.

4. Hogle Zoo, Salt Lake City

Hogle Zoo is open year-round. A winter visit means fewer people and saying hello to some animals that tend to be more active than at other times of the year. Check out Zoo Lights during December or just stop by for a visit after the holidays. You'll find more information about why Hogle Zoo is one of the top places to visit in Utah in winter in this feature article.

5. Hardware Ranch, Blacksmith Fork Canyon

Hardware Ranch supports up to 600 elk during the winter months, providing 300 tons of hay to keep them fat and happy. You can also take a wagon ride during your outing here! The elk viewing season at Hardware Ranch starts on December 11th. Therefore, it's one of the perfect places to visit in Utah in December.

6. The Gallivan Center, Salt Lake City

Take your family to skate at the Gallivan Plaza ice rink. During the winter, the rink is open seven days a week.

7. North Pole Express, Heber

Take the North Pole Express on the Heber Valley Historic Railroad. You'll get to ride along with Santa while enjoying hot cocoa, cookies, and spectacular views of winter in Utah.

8. Arches National Park

When you visit Arches National Park in the winter, you'll get to photograph Delicate Arch in solitude; instead of being surrounded by tourists.

9. Soldier Hollow, Wasatch Mountain State Park

Go tubing at Soldier Hollow when you spend winter in Utah. The lift will drag you up the hill. Therefore, you can save your energy when you scream down the slope!

10. Solitude Nordic Center

Snowshoeing at Nordic Center and the surrounding area is a popular winter in Utah activity. Of course, it’s the perfect place for Nordic skiing during winter in Utah too.

11. St. George

If you live in Northern Utah, at some point this winter you’ll miss the sun. One of the popular places to visit Utah in winter is warm, sunny St. George. Here, you can play outside and escape the cold winter in Utah for a few days!

12. The Viking Yurt, Park City

For that special date night, The Viking Yurt is the ultimate winter restaurant. You’ll take a sleigh ride up to the yurt, which sits at 8,700 feet. Then, enjoy a delicious four-hour European meal. Remember to make a reservation early since there is only one seating per night with a maximum capacity of 40 guests. For a similar experience, try the Yurt at Solitude too.

13. Bryce Canyon National Park

Don't you just love the way a dusting of snow brings out the topography of the hoodoos in this stunning national park? You'll get to experience it first-hand when you put Bryce Canyon National Park on your list of places to visit in Utah in December.

14. Ice Castles, Midway

Bundle up in your coat, hat, gloves, and boots and wander through the

magical ice castles during winter in Utah.

15. Temple Square, Salt Lake City

You won't want to miss the Christmas lights at Temple Square. While you’re there, catch a free concert. Afterward, warm up with some hot chocolate

Have you visited any of these popular spots during winter in Utah? If so, feel free to share in the following comments section. And, if you'd like to spend more time in nature when it's cold outside, check out these winter hikes in Utah as well.