Feeling the winter blues? Here are 24 cheap, safe getaways.
While many are staying home because of the pandemic, U.S. hotels and destinations have continued to carefully reopen, with contactless check-in and other cleanliness and hygiene protocols in place to help keep visitors and employees safe.
A recent study by vacation rental search engine HomeToGo found that U.S. travelers are seeking more private, rural getaways with the family, with lots of short last-minute trips being planned 44% to warm places by the beach and 24% to winter-weather destinations. The study also showed a 594% increase in searches for rentals near the Smoky Mountains compared to last year, indicating a preference for escapes to remote locations in the great outdoors this season.
Created: December 23, 2020 04:55 PM
At Elm Creek Park Reserve, the season has already been a busy one. We’ve definitely had a good crowd out already, Julie Matzek, with Elm Creek, said.
And the new snow is a welcome sight. I’m excited about the snow, it’s nice to have real snow, one Elm Creek visitor said.
KSTP I’m excited especially before Christmas, another added.
But like many other businesses, ski hills and trails are also facing changes due to COVID-19.
Reservations are now required at Elm Creek for cross country skiing. It is an all-new system because of COVID-19, so we’re really trying to restrict the number of skiers that we re allowing both in our rental building at one time getting equipment on, sizing them and everything, but also out on the trails, Matzek said.
Hitting the slopes this winter? Here s how MN ski areas and resorts are dealing with COVID-19
If you plan on hitting the slopes this winter at any one of Minnesota’s many ski areas and resorts, keep in mind that your visit will come with some modifications, as these recreational businesses each are taking special safety precautions to limit the spread of the coronavirus. 8:00 am, Dec. 19, 2020 ×
Some Minnesota Ski Areas Association guidelines include face coverings that must be worn indoors, in lift lines, when loading and unloading lifts, and anytime outdoors where six feet of physical distancing cannot be maintained. (Duluth News Tribune file photo)
Hayes said they eliminated more than 60% of tables in their restaurant and cafeteria. Masks are required, and outdoor capacity is capped at 50%. Hayes said it s a great way to enjoy the outdoors and stay safe. You can t ask for a better activity. We re wearing hats, gloves, masks, goggles, and wearing a 6-foot ski to keep our distance, said Hayes. I m excited. I haven t gone skiing in a while, so it s going to be fun to get back out there, said 12-year-old Ryan Miller. The balancing part is the hardest, but it s also the funnest to try to balance, said 12-year-old Rebecca Miller.
As Minnesota s ski areas and resorts open, bring your skis and masks
If you plan on hitting the slopes this winter at any one of Minnesota’s many ski areas and resorts, keep in mind that your visit will come with some modifications, as these recreational businesses each are taking special safety precautions to limit the spread of the coronavirus. 7:30 am, Dec. 19, 2020 ×
Some Minnesota Ski Areas Association guidelines include face coverings that must be worn indoors, in lift lines, when loading and unloading lifts, and anytime outdoors where six feet of physical distancing cannot be maintained. (Duluth News Tribune file photo)