The Variable Infiltration Capacity (VIC) macroscale hydrologic model is distinguished from other Soil-Vegetation-Atmosphere Transfer schemes by its focus on runoff processes. These are represented via the variable infiltration curve, a parameterization of the effects of subgrid variability in soil moisture holding capacity, and a representation of nonlinear baseflow. Recent work with the model has focused on applications in cold seasons and/or to high latitudes. Improved process algorithms have been made in a) representations of the effects of lake and wetland storage on runoff timing and surface energy fluxes; b) representation of the effects of both ephemeral soil freezing and permafrost, and spatial variability in processes related to soil freezing, c) the effects of snow redistribution on sublimation and winter snow accumulation, and d) effects of sensible heat advection on snowmelt under conditions of partial snow cover. Evaluation of the lake and wetland model is illustrated using data from the Putuligayuk River basin on the North Slope of Alaska, and PILPS Phase 2(e) validation catchments within the Torne-Kalix River basin, Sweden. Soil freeze-thaw processes and the effects of energy advection during snowmelt are evaluated using data from the upper Mississippi River basin. The new sublimation parameterization is evaluated using data from the Upper Kuparuk River basin, Alaska and the Trail Valley Creek, NWT, Canada.