Stay warm at Thanksgiving: Warm-Weather Destinations

Thanksgiving is coming up, and with it a long block of time off work for many people. Time off is great, but how to spend it at Thanksgiving can be tricky. Resort skiing will likely be limited, backcountry skiing may not be possible at, and local MTB trails are probably just wet and snowy enough to not be usable. What’s an outdoorsy person (or family) to do? Here are some options:

Phoenix: Head far enough south and you shed the snow and gain some daylight. Mountain biking in November in Phoenix is about as good as it gets, and camping is a definite possibility. Lots of trails abound–try those at McDowell Mountain for starters.

Las Cruces: Decided off-limits during summer, this southern New Mexico spot can be downright delightful once winter draws near. Organ Mountains-Desert Peaks National Monument has hikes in an otherworldly landscape of jagged, angular bare peaks. 

St. George: Not quite as warm or exciting as Las Vegas, but certainly cheaper, safer, and cleaner, St. George has absolutely exploded with hiking and mountain biking options in recent years. There’s enough here to keep you busy all week, and if for some reason it doesn’t, Zion National Park is less than an hour away.

Socorro: This southern New Mexico town is just big enough to have everything you need for a break, including a burgeoning single track network suitable for running and biking.

Puerto Penasco: If you’re going to head south, why not go all the way? This Mexican beach town is a few hours south of Phoenix and has a real-deal beach resort scene, including high rise hotels and apartments, plus camping. Bonus: The drive there takes you along the edge of El Pinacate, a volcanic nature reserve.

Alien Run: Can’t make a 10-hour drive? Aztec has slickrock riding that’s 30 minutes from town and 10 degrees warmer. Not much further are the Road Apple trails near Farmington, which are buff and fast. Pair it with a tour of San Juan County’s many arches and a Sam’s Club run and you got yourself a pretty sweet staycation.

Looking for more ideas? Staff at Durango Outdoor Exchange know all the best spots–and the gear you need to get you there. Stop by and say hi!