Budget Winter Trips and Snow Sporting Deals in Canada, California, and more

During this weekend last year, a large portion of the country was blanketed in snow and ice. But so far this year, the winter hasn't been very, well wintry. Those in Florida may be happy as clams to maintain 60- and 70-degree temperatures, but if you're seeking out colder climates (and some fluffy snow!) to get in the spirit of the season, here are some budget-friendly cold-weather vacation deals.

If winter won't come to you, then make your way to it! Head off to Canada with this 3-Night Delta Chelsea Hotel and Toronto Flight Package for 2 (from $930, a low by $183 per person), where you can take a chilly 10- or 15-minute walk to the Massey Hall Performing Arts Theater or Art Gallery of Ontario. Rather stay at the Ritz, eh? No problem! Book a 3-Night Stay at the Ritz-Carlton Hotel with your flight (from $950, a low by $370 per person), and not only is your third night free, but you'll receive a $50 food and beverage credit. And don't forget, while in Toronto, make time for ice skating at Nathan Phillips Square.

A big part of winter for many cold weather lovers is great skiing. Hitting the slops sound like fun? Travel to Mont-Tremblant, in Quebec! This Canadian wonderland is affordable and fun via a 2-Night Stay at Le Tour Des Voyageurs Hotel with Flights for 2 (from $1,510, a low by $71 per person). What's more, this package includes a 2-day ski lift ticket per person.

Looking to stay in the USA and still play your part in winter sports? Couples should check out northwest Michigan's Crystal Mountain Resort & Spa where they can relax in the lodge, or hit the slopes, starting at just $189 a night (a low by $82). The package comes with four lift tickets and four equipment rentals for two people, which is enough for two days of skiing. We don't see why you wouldn't stay for two nights though (from $339, a savings of $39), which gets you instead six lift tickets and six equipment rentals.

Some of the States' best Midwestern ski spots can be found in the Rockies and Sierra Nevadas. Why not visit California's The Westin Monache Resort at Mammoth Mountain (from $329 per night, a low by $30), where a gondola to the slopes is just minutes from your door. Hot tubs, fitness rooms, and in-house equipment rental availability doesn't hurt either. Or head to Colorado, where you'll find that skiing and snowboarding is made a little cheaper with discounted Winter Park Ski Lift tickets (from $68.13 without equipment, $21 off). You can include lunch and an all-day lesson with either, too, starting at just $99 per day ($20 off). And don't let the name deceive you: Copper Mountain is pure snow, and its lift tickets start at $59.99 ($40 off).

If the cold is more naughty than nice for you, be sure to check out our roundup of the top travel deals from the past week for additional discounted flights, hotels, and vacation packages.

Front page photo credit: Alta Lodge
Photo credits top to bottom: SKYIMG and Activity Away