How to Winter in Litchfield County: Your Guide to Cozy Charm and Snow-Dusted Adventures
When the snow blankets western Connecticut, Litchfield County transforms into the quintessential New England escape. Forget the city rush and imagine crisp air, stunning snow-dusted hills, and the cozy glow of a tavern fireplace. This isn’t a season to hibernate, it’s the perfect time to explore the charm of the Litchfield Hills. To make your trip seamless and truly feel like home, stay at a Red Cottage property and enjoy the ultimate cozy and convenient basecamp for all your snow-day excursions.
Downhill Skiing and Snow Tubing
📍 Mohawk Mountain Ski Area
A true Connecticut classic for downhill skiing and snowboarding. Mohawk Mountain is the state’s oldest and largest ski area, offering trails for all levels and reliable snowmaking. It’s the perfect place to turn a chilly morning into a full-on snow day.
📍 Ski Sundown
If you want variety, this spot is known for its excellent conditions, two terrain parks, and great night skiing. It’s ideal for groups looking for reliable conditions and plenty of vertical fun.
Cross-country Skiing, Snowshoeing, + Easy Winter Walks
📍 White Memorial Conservation Center
This 4,000-acre preserve offers over 40 miles of trails perfectly suited for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. If you want a nature-first moment with frozen lake views, be sure to find the scenic vista near the Ice House ruins on the Lake Trail.
📍 Topsmead State Forest
The rolling, snow-covered grounds surrounding the English Tudor-style “cottage” here offer a majestic, quiet setting for a snowy stroll or sledding. It feels like stepping into a peaceful, historic countryside landscape.
📍 Appalachian Trail
Winding through pristine hardwood forest, offering hikers a peaceful escape. Whether for a short walk or longer trek, the scenery and serenity are unmatched on this portion of the Appalachian Trail.
Après-Ski & Cozy Sips
📍 Litchfield Distillery
A fantastic destination for post-adventure relaxation. Take a complimentary tour and sample their award-winning small-batch spirits. It’s a great way to taste the local flavor and warm up from the inside out.
📍 Kent Falls Brewing Co.
A local favorite for craft beer lovers. The taproom is welcoming and spacious, perfect for sampling a few brews with friends. Their dedication to quality shines in every pour.
📍 Hopkins Vineyard
Sip on seasonal wines while enjoying stunning views over Lake Waramaug. This is a beautiful pick for a slower, relaxed afternoon that feels special in winter, especially if you can snag a spot near a fire.
📍 The Charming Downtowns (Litchfield, Kent, Washington Depot)
Browse the indie bookstores, antique shops, and local boutiques in these picturesque towns. Duck into a cozy cafe like Marty’s Cafe (Washington Depot) or 45 Main (Kent) to escape the cold and refuel.
Whether you’re here for fresh powder, quiet nature, or a cozy crawl of local shops and taverns, winter in Litchfield County is the kind of getaway that feels both easy and unforgettable. Pick a couple of outdoor adventures, save room for comfort food and local sips, and build a weekend that is equal parts active and laid-back. Then, bring it all back to your Red Cottage stay, your warm, tucked-away escape to unwind, reset, and do it all again tomorrow.
