iStock International
Alaskan winters aren’t lacking for the powdery white stuff, which, combined with surreal landscapes, wilderness solitude, and challenging terrain, make for a paradise for winter sports enthusiasts who don’t mind braving the cold. The northern reaches of the country – especially near … more the Fairbanks area – are also noted for having some of the best aurora borealis viewings in the world, while the season also brings special events like the action-packed Iditarod race and the World Ice Art Championships.