Rising global temperatures cause record-breaking heat across the U.S., which means more travelers are looking for a vacation to cold destinations, or “coolcations.” The trips to colder states will bring some relief from the heat and also provide plenty of cold-weather adventures to take part in.
To get to this ranking, travel experts at Miss Tourist used data from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and World Population Review. They used factors such as average annual, summer, and winter temperatures, elevation, and shoreline density to determine the best destinations for a coolcation.
Yulia Saf, CEO and Founder of Miss Tourist, states, “As global temperatures rise due to climate change, we’re seeing a significant shift in travel preferences. These destinations prove that comfortable temperatures can enhance outdoor experiences and create memorable vacations year-round.”
Browse this list to see the top U.S. states for a coolcation.
1. Alaska
Alaska is the best destination if you’re looking for a coolcation, with 88.58 points. The frosty weather is almost year-round, with an average yearly temperature of 26.6°F, which is the coldest average of all states.
Don’t worry, while temperatures are lower in winter at an average of 21.5°F, temperatures in summer do get warmer with an average of 52.3°F. Travelers enjoy glacier tours and whale watching in Juneau, the state capital, and wildlife-immersed hiking in Anchorage.
Yulia Saf says it’s no surprise Alaska tops the ranking, calling it “the ultimate coolcation destination” for its temperatures and landscapes. With an elevation of 1,900 feet above sea level and 5.94 miles of shoreline per 100 square miles, Alaska lives up to its reputation.
2. Wyoming
Wyoming comes in second with a score of 76.74, an ideal state for your coolcation this year. The state offers a ton of locations to get a dose of nature therapy, including Yellowstone National Park and Grand Teton National Park.
Wyoming’s 6,700-foot elevation is a big reason why it’s so high on the list, sitting at the intersection of the Rocky Mountains and the Great Plains. Its mountainous geography is one major reason behind its consistently low temperatures.
3. Maine
Maine lands in third place, scoring 75.48. It has 11.28 miles of shoreline (per 100 square miles) and is home to Acadia National Park. The park is perfect for outdoor activities, as you can stroll on one of its beaches or hike rugged mountain trails.
With an average annual temperature of 41°F, Maine is the ideal setting for a pleasantly chilly vacation. In winter the temperature is an average of 32.8°F on average, and in summer the temperature is an average of 63.7°F. That means the time of year when you visit has a big impact on how cool Maine actually is.
4. Oregon
Ranking fourth, the crisp and breezy state of Oregon could be your next coolcation spot. The state has the advantage of a 48.4°F average temperature annually.
For the best coastal views in Oregon, consider visiting the Oregon Coast Trail, where you can access fine beaches and rocky cliffs with beautiful views. Another option is The Cooks Ridge – Gwynn Creek Loop, a lesser-known 6.3-mile hike along the Pacific Ocean.
5. Minnesota
Want a summer vacation without sunburn? You’ll surely appreciate Minnesota’s 66.8°F summer climate. In winter, the temperatures are a little lower at 29.7°F on average.
At fifth place, Minnesota has plenty of attractions to make the most of your coolcation, such as the Superior Hiking Trail overlooking Lake Superior. The state’s average elevation is 1,200 feet above sea level, so you can soak up the views and stay cool at the same time.
6. Wisconsin
Wisconsin is in sixth place with 71.44 points. The state is known for its refreshing climate of 43.1°F on average throughout the year and elevation of 1,050 feet above sea level.
At the northernmost point of Wisconsin, you’ll find Apostle Islands National Lakeshore, a stretch of islands comprised of caves, beaches, and wave-cut cliffs. It’s a great place to go kayaking, hiking, or simply take in the picture-perfect views.
7. Idaho
Ranking seventh, Idaho gets a score of 71.42. A major reason to visit this state is its average yearly temperature of 44.4°F, with an average of 31.3°F in winter and 63.7°F in summer.
You can visit the beautiful Lake Pend Oreille, Idaho’s largest lake, for fun outdoor activities like hiking along the shoreline. And if you’re up for the climb, try the Lost River Range, which features areas that start at an elevation of about 5,000 feet. There are also many great skiing options.
8. Montana
Montana secures eighth place with a score of 71.02. It fulfills its promise as a coolcation destination with an average temperature of 42.7°F yearly. It is home to the magnificent Glacier National Park.
With an average elevation of 3,400 feet, Montana grows colder with increasing altitude. An interesting fact about this state is that its diverse geography creates distinct climates: the mountainous west side experiences snowy winters and cool summers, while the flatter east region stays warmer.
9. Washington
Washington is known for its cold weather year-round, with an average annual temperature of 48.3°F.
Scoring 70.60 points, Washington shines as a winter wonderland that lets you snap photos of frozen lakes and snow-capped peaks. In particular, Mount Rainier and Olympic National Park are great for discovering the natural beauty of the Pacific Northwest.
10. Colorado
Colorado, a very well-known winter destination, gets a score of 69.82. Winter temperatures drop to 31.8°F, setting the perfect mood for your holiday vacation. It is home to many of the best ski resorts in the country.
At 6,800 feet above sea level, the average elevation is the highest of all the states. Outdoor enthusiasts will enjoy Rocky Mountain National Park and Horsetooth Reservoir for the alpine lakes and picturesque foothills.
11. Michigan
Michigan earns a 69.78 coolcation score with a yearly average temperature of 44.4°F, ideal for those who enjoy a colder destination.
Michigan features 5.70 miles of shoreline per 100 square miles, which means plenty of water activities for you to explore in the area. One of the most well-known parks in this state is Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. It offers an accessible 1.5-mile round-trip hike with views of Lake Michigan and surrounding dunes.
12. New Hampshire
New Hampshire’s climate is consistently colder than a lot of other states, with winters at 34.3°F and summers at 65.5°F.
Hike Mount Major’s 3-mile trail for a challenge or take the shorter 1.5-mile trail at Squam Lake for a bird’s eye view of the lake and its surrounding mountains.
13. North Dakota
While North Dakota gets cold in winter with an average temperature of 28.2°F, it gets warmer in summer with an average of 66.6°F and maintains a yearly average of 40.4°F.
An average elevation of 1,900 feet contributes to North Dakota’s colder climate. You can visit Theodore Roosevelt National Park and Lake Sakakawea State Park to conquer the cold on hiking trails.
14. New York
New York is a world-famous destination, but most people don’t know it has 5.57 miles of shoreline (per 100 square miles) contributes to its cool conditions.
The state’s chilly breeze is best enjoyed at locations like Central Park and Hudson River Park. You can stroll scenic paths, relax in meadows, or have picnics accompanied by views of the greenery and urban skyline.
15. Massachusetts
Spending your vacation in Massachusetts offers a great escape from the heat. The state has average temperatures of 47.9°F yearly.
Massachusetts’ top destination is Cape Cod National Seashore, featuring a 6-mile loop with stunning views of Cape Cod Bay. With 19.47 miles of shoreline (per 100 square miles), visitors can go hiking and birdwatching in this relaxing natural setting.
16. Vermont
Vermont’s weather provides great opportunities to cool off, with a summer climate typically at 65.1°F and a winter climate at 33.1°F.
Vermont is well-suited for outdoor activities. Start at Lake Willoughby, a glacial lake surrounded by steep cliffs. Hike the Mount Pisgah Trail for moderate difficulty and amazing lake views, popular with hikers and photographers.
For more scenery, visit Quechee Gorge, known as “Vermont’s Grand Canyon,” which features an easier 1.5-mile trail.
17. South Dakota
South Dakota has an elevation of 2,200 feet and an average temperature of 45.2°F. The state’s altitude results in cooler winters with significant snowfall.
It’s a premier coolcation spot with numerous parks where you can enjoy the climate. Explore Badlands National Park for wildlife hiking and Custer State Park to see impressive granite spires.
18. Pennsylvania
With a recorded summer temperature of 68.6°F and winter temperature of 38.9°F on average, Pennsylvania has many perks for vacationers.
There are plenty of activities to try, such as hiking alongside waterfalls in Ricketts Glen State Park and biking on the Schuylkill River Trail. Additionally, the Pocono Mountains are a favorite for skiing and snowboarding.
19. Utah
Utah, with a score of 56.74, is another great location for a holiday trip. It sits an average of 6,100 feet above sea level with a climate that averages 48.6°F annually.
Utah is home to several parks, such as Zion National Park and Antelope Island State Park. It sets the stage for grand adventures trekking through canyons, keeping you cool while you explore.
20. Connecticut
Connecticut averages 49°F throughout the year and stays cool with 12.76 miles of shoreline per 100 square miles.
When visiting this state, head to locations like Sleeping Giant State Park and Talcott Mountain State Park to enjoy the climate. Your unique coolcation will definitely create lasting memories.
Featured Image: jakubcejpek/depositphotos
Marjolein Dilven is a journalist and founder of Spark Nomad, a travel platform, and Radical FIRE, a personal finance platform. Marjolein has a finance and economics background with a master’s in Finance. She has quit her job to travel the world, documenting her travels on Spark Nomad to help people plan their travels. Marjolein Dilven has written for publications like MSN, Associated Press, CNBC, Town News syndicate, and more.
