Since we live in Southern California, it’s rare we see snow unless we travel to it.

We had the most wonderful invitation from our friends to stay with them in their lovely “cabin” (more like a full house!) in the Cascade Mountains.

Nothing is quite like the trek up the snowy hill with your sled and then the incredible ride down!

It’s about a 2 hour drive from Seattle. The look on our kids faces as they took in the winter wonderland was priceless!

And the fun would continue into the night —— which had it’s own special magic!

Cold snow, a hot fire, and the best of friends!

What could possibly top days of snow, laughs, and good food?

Why —— a sled ride through Leavenworth!

On our last night, we bought tickets to take this beautiful sled through some jaw dropping wilderness.

It was one of those adventures that we might have passed up because it was VERY cold and it wasn’t cheap. But I’m so glad that we did it……a memory we’ll have forever.

The sun began to set and before we made it back to home base, the sled pulled over and we were greeted with a roaring fire and hot cider.

It was really, really cold —- taking off gloves for pictures was pretty tricky!

We used:

http://www.leavenworthsleighrides.com/

They have a beautiful lodge too ——- so if you were inclined to stay there, it sure looked inviting!

Leavenworth is just an adorable town that will make you feel like you’re either in the Alps or on a Disney set.

I think you’ll love it! Put it at the top of your travel list —— especially if you live in S. Ca.!! Flights are getting cheaper and it really is an amazing part of our country!!