Don’t let winter stop you from exploring some of the most beautiful national parks in the US! The park system has several parks located in the desert that are perfect for a winter trip. Whether you’re dreaming about a Grand Canyon trip or an adventure to the Florida Everglades, this guide will give you lots of ideas of where to go on that winter vacation.
This guide is based on my experience of visiting 58 out of 63 US national parks (and I have plans to visit the rest of the parks very soon!).
A Few Important Things To Know About Visiting National Parks in the Winter
- Make sure to leave no trace while you’re exploring our public lands. That includes packing out your trash, staying on the trails, never feeding wildlife, and more. Please leave these parks better than you found them!
- It is extra important to check current conditions before traveling to some of these areas in the winter. For many of these parks, snow is possible and you may need microspikes to hike safely. For some of these parks, road and trail closures can affect your visit in the winter. Check each national park website before visiting.
- If you’ll be visiting multiple national parks over the course of a year, the America the Beautiful pass can save you money.
- Guide Along offers audio tours for most of these parks. I listen to these tours every chance I get - they are so informative and fun!
19 of the Best National Parks to Visit in Winter
1. Zion National Park, Utah
Zion offers some of the most iconic views in the United States! The park is centered around a massive canyon with walls that are 100’s of feet high. You can hike through rivers, gaze upon the canyon from above and below, admire waterfalls, and more.
Zion gets extremely hot in the summer, so it’s best to avoid the warmest months. While spring and fall usually offer the best temperatures, they also bring huge crowds (and Zion is one of the most visited US national parks). So, winter is a great time to visit to enjoy cooler temperatures and fewer people.
Zion can receive snow, but it usually doesn’t stick around for long in the main areas of the park. Some areas of the park, such as Kolob Canyons, sit at a higher elevation and will receive a lot more snow and ice than the most visited parts of the park. Make sure to check current conditions and come prepared with microspikes if you do encounter icy conditions.
The Best Things To Do in Zion National Park:
- Hike the Narrows, an incredible trail that traverses through a river with narrow canyon walls that are 100’s of feet tall.
- Drive the Zion-Mount Carmel Highway and drive through the iconic tunnel.
- Snag a permit for Angel’s Landing, an infamous hike known for its narrow chain section.
- Enjoy some of the best views in the park from Observation Point.
- Hike up The Watchman Trail, which leaves from the visitor center.
Pro Tip: You can’t drive your own car to the most popular areas in Zion Canyon, such as the trailheads to Angel’s Landing and the Narrows. A shuttle is provided at no extra cost. You can also rent bikes and explore the park that way!
Read my guide to visiting Zion National Park.
2. Saguaro National Park, Arizona
Saguaro National Park celebrates the Saguaro cactus, which is the largest cactus in the world! Throughout the park, you can admire saguaros of all ages and sizes, some of which are 100’s of years old. Along with the cacti, this park is home to mountains, waterfalls, an abundance of wildlife, and other desert plants.
Winter is a great time to explore the desert of Arizona. Snow is extremely rare in this park and winter tends to be wonderful weather for hiking.
Saguaro National Park has two separate units on opposite sides of Tucson. Both sides offer beautiful hiking trails and scenic drives. I recommend visiting both sides, and enjoying the incredible food scene in Tucson while you’re there!
The Best Things To Do in Saguaro National Park:
- Hike to the top of Wasson Peak.
- Check out the petroglyphs at Signal Hil.
- Drive the Cactus Loop Scenic Drive.
- Hike to Bridal Wreath Falls.
- Drive the Bajada Loop Drive.
Pro Tip: Spend an evening watching the sunset from Gates Pass, which is right outside of the national park. Get there early to snag a parking spot!
Read about Saguaro National Park in my Tucson guide
3. Arches National Park, Utah
Arches is a famous Utah park known for its many stunning natural arches and bridges. This park has a wonderful variety of both easy and difficult trails, so there is something for everyone.
As is the case with most of the desert parks on this list, Arches is located in the desert, so it’s best to avoid hiking here in the summer. Snow is possible, but rare inside the park and usually doesn’t stick for long.
Winter brings cold nights, but daytime brings sun and brisk hiking weather. And if you’re lucky enough to see this park with a bit of snow, it creates a beautiful contrast against the red rocks.
The Best Things To Do in Arches National Park:
- Hike to the famous Delicate Arch, the most famous arch inside the park!
- Take the short trails to Double Arch, Tunnel Arch, Sand Dune Arch, and more.
- Snag a permit or take a ranger-led tour to explore Fiery Furnace, an adventurous area of the park that requires route finding.
- Hike the challenging Devil’s Garden Loop, which leads you past 7 arches.
Pro Tip: Hike to Delicate Arch at sunrise, but arrive early to get a parking spot!
Read my guide to visiting Moab, which includes Arches National Park.
4. Grand Canyon National Park (South Rim), Arizona
The Grand Canyon is one of those places that all Americans should try to see before they die! As with many of these parks, it can get very hot here in the summer. Plus, most people visit during the summer, so it can get very crowded. Winter is a quieter and more peaceful time to explore.
The Grand Canyon South Rim gets a decent amount of snow, so you’ll want to be prepared for slippery conditions. However, it’s a beautiful sight to see the canyon dusted with snow and the area also tends to get a lot of winter sun.
Keep in mind that the Grand Canyon North Rim sits at a higher elevation and tends to be closed in the winter months.
The Best Things To Do in the Grand Canyon South Rim:
- Hike the Bright Angel Trail into the canyon (make sure you’re prepared to hike back up!)
- Take the shuttle and admire the many beautiful overlooks, especially around sunset.
- Visit the historic Desert View Watchtower.
Pro Tip: There is a convenient free shuttle system that will transport you around the park.
5. Big Bend National Park, Texas
Big Bend is one of the most underrated national parks! This remote Texas park sits right on the Mexico border and is home to 1,000’s of miles of mountains, desert landscapes, hot springs, and more.
Big Bend gets quite hot in the summer, so winter brings more mild temperatures. Snow is possible, but rare, and typically remains in the higher elevations of the park.
The Best Things To Do in Big Bend National Park:
- Cross the border into Mexico and visit the town of Boquillas del Carmen.
- Get up close to the Rio Grande River on the Boquillas Canyon Trail.
- Hike in the mountains on the Lost Mine Trail or Window Trail.
- Take a soak in the Hot Springs Historic District.
Pro Tip: Major weather forecasts typically report the temperatures at the Park Headquarters, but this area sits at a higher elevation than much of the park. Most of the park tends to be 10 degrees hotter.
Read my West Texas road trip itinerary, which includes Big Bend.
6. Everglades National Park, Florida
This Florida national park is an incredible place for wildlife and enjoying nature. From alligators to dolphins to a variety of birds, there is so much to see. Plus, you can admire several different ecosystems throughout the park.
Everglades has two distinct seasons - a wet and a dry season. The dry season occurs from November and May and is the best time to visit. You’ll enjoy less humidity and rain, cooler temperatures and this tends to be the best time to hike, ride an airboat and other activities.
The Best Things To Do in Everglades National Park:
- Take a ranger-led wet walk and walk out into the water to see a cypress dome.
- Rent bikes and ride to (or take the shuttle) out to the Shark Valley Observation Tower.
- Go kayaking. I loved taking a tour near the park with Jenny’s Eco Everglades.
- Go hiking. I love the Anhinga Trail.
- Go on an airboat tour.
Pro Tip: It’s more than likely that you’ll see A LOT of alligators here. Be sure to keep a safe distance, but also don’t let it scare you!
Read my itinerary for Everglades National Park.
7. Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, Hawaii
This park is home to two of the most active volcanoes on earth! If you’re lucky, you might get to see the lava flowing (eruptions can’t be predicted, but typically happen at least once a year and can last several days). Even if you don’t get to see an active eruption, you can still admire the volcanic landscapes throughout the park.
Mauna Loa summit sits at 13,680 feet, so winter weather can be experienced here year round. However, the park overall has mild temperatures in the winter, and less rain and humidity than other times of year.
One of the most interesting things about this park is that it’s constantly changing. Major eruptions have occurred in the last 100 years that have reshaped the island. It’s really special to visit a place that has the power to change the landscape on a human time scale.
The Best Things To Do in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park:
- Walk through the Thurston Lava Tube.
- Drive down Chain of Craters Road to the coast and see the Hōlei Sea Arch.
- Hike the Kilauea Craters Trail.
- Hike the Devastation Trail to see giant cinder cones.
- Check out the Sulphur Banks and the Steam Vents.
Pro Tip: Check the webcams before visiting to find out if there is any volcanic activity!
8. Dry Tortugas National Park, Florida
This remote park is truly unique and hard to reach. Dry Tortugas is located 70 miles off the coast of Key West and features a historic fort, along with pristine beaches and a variety of aquatic and bird life.
Winter is a nice time to visit Dry Tortugas because you can enjoy cooler temperatures, low humidity and fewer crowds.
To visit Dry Tortugas, you can either take the ferry or a seaplane. You also have the option of taking a day trip or camping on the island. Reservations can be hard to get, especially for camping, so make sure to plan ahead.
The Best Things To Do in Dry Tortugas National Park:
- Go snorkeling.
- Take a tour of historic Fort Jefferson.
- Camp on the island and enjoy the night skies.
Pro Tip: Book your tickets for the ferry a few months in advance, and be prepared for possible rough waters.
Read my guide to visiting Dry Tortugas National Park
9. Carlsbad Caverns National Park, New Mexico
Visit one of the most impressive caves in the United States at Carlsbad Caverns! The park holds the largest single cave chamber in North America and has over 100 caves throughout the park.
The cave stays at a steady temperature all year (56°F), so it’s nice to visit year round. On the surface, this park receives mild winters. Snow is possible, but not very common. Unfortunately, you’ll miss out on the bat flights in the winter. But besides that, it’s a nice time to visit!
The Best Things To Do in Carlsbad Caverns National Park:
- Take a self-guided tour of the largest cavern in the park. Make sure to enter via the natural entrance if you can!
- Take a hike above the surface. One easy option is the Walnut Canyon Trail.
- Take a ranger-led tour of King’s Palace or the Lower Cave.
Pro Tip: Make sure to reserve your tickets for the self-guided tour in advance!
Read my West Texas and New Mexico Road Trip, which includes Carlsbad Caverns!
10. Petrified Forest National Park, Arizona
Petrified Forest is a colorful park that is perfect for anyone interested in geology. You can see a lot of petrified wood here that is 1000’s of years old, plus colorful badlands.
This is another desert park, so it gets quite hot in the summer and has mild winters. Snow is possible in the winter, but it tends to melt quickly and creates a beautiful scene. Winter is also a quiet time in the park.
The Best Things To Do in Petrified Forest:
- Hike the Blue Mesa Historic Trail and the Blue Mesa Trail for colorful views (my favorite trails!)
- Hike the Crystal Forest and Giant Log trails to see lots of petrified wood up close.
- Admire the many overlooks in the park, such as Tiponi Point and Newspaper Rock.
Pro Tip: Make sure to not take any petrified wood with you. Not only is it against the principles of leaving no trace, but there is a curse that many have experienced!
Read my guide to visiting Petrified Forest National Park.
11. Death Valley National Park, California
The hottest (and lowest and driest) place in the US is easily one of the best national parks to visit in the winter! Some of the highest temperatures in the world have been recorded in Death Valley National Park, so you definitely want to avoid visiting during the summer. Winter brings mild daytime temperatures and cool evenings.
Death Valley is a very unique park home to sand dunes, salt flats, colorful canyons, and more. It makes for a great day trip from Las Vegas, but there is also a lot to explore if you spend a few days.
The Best Things To Do in Death Valley National Park:
- Watch the sunrise from Sunrise at Zabriskie Point.
- Explore Artist’s Palette at Golden Hour.
- Visit the Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes.
- Hike the Desolation Canyon Trail.
- Visit Badwater Basin.
Pro Tip: Temperatures and conditions may vary a lot depending on what elevation you’re at. Death Valley is a huge park with a large variation of altitudes.
Read my itinerary for Death Valley National Park.
12. Biscayne National Park, Florida
This unique park is 95% water! Biscayne protects coral reefs, along with islands, mangrove forests, and more. It’s a great park to see marine life, such as dolphins and all kinds of fish.
Winter in Biscayne brings clear water for snorkeling, mild temperatures and fewer bugs than summer. Plus, Biscayne is quite close to Everglades National Park and the Florida Keys, and winter is the perfect time for a Florida road trip!
The Best Things To Do in Biscayne National Park:
- Go snorkeling.
- Paddle through mangrove tunnels.
- Visit the lighthouse on Boca Chita Key.
Pro Tip: Reserve a guided tour with the Biscayne National Park Institute to explore the park!
Read my guide to visiting Biscayne National Park.
13. Virgin Islands National Park
Virgin Islands National Park is a tropical park known for its snorkeling, white sand beaches, and historic sites. This island park not only has a great variety of water activities, but there are some beautiful hiking trails too.
Winter is a great time to visit, as you’ll avoid hurricane season and the hot and humid summers.
The Best Things To Do in Virgin Islands National Park:
- Snorkel at Cinnamon Bay Beach.
- Hike the Ram Head Trail.
- Visit the Annaberg Sugar Plantation.
- Visit Trunk Bay Beach.
14. White Sands National Park, New Mexico
White Sands National Park is home to the world’s largest gypsum dunefield! This unique park is full of 275 square miles of white sand, making it a beautiful sight to behold.
Winter is a great time for White Sands, because they have mild winters. Snow is possible, but rare, and tends to melt quickly. Winter brings fewer crowds and tends to be nice weather for hiking.
The Best Things To Do at White Sands National Park:
- Sled down the sand dunes.
- Hike inside the park. A couple trails include the Alkali Flat Trail and the Dune Life Nature Trail.
- Watch the sunset!
Pro Tip: Stay for sunset, but make sure to leave after. The park gates close 30 minutes after sunset and you can’t be in the park overnight.
Read my guide to visiting White Sands National Park.
15. Bryce Canyon National Park, Utah
Bryce is a stunning park known for its canyon full of hoodoos. It has the highest elevation out of the Utah Mighty Five, so winters are cold and snowy. However, I think that visiting Bryce with snow is such a beautiful time. The contrast of snow against the orange formations is so interesting!
Winter in Bryce also brings fewer crowds. However, it’s best to bring microspikes for hiking, and keep in mind that some trails may be closed during the winter.
The Best Things To Do in Bryce Canyon National Park:
- Hike the Navajo Loop and Queens Garden Trail.
- Take the Bryce Canyon Scenic Drive to Rainbow Point.
- Watch the sunrise or sunset from one of the overlooks.
- Hike the Fairyland Loop Trail.
- Hike the Mossy Cave Trail.
Pro Tip: Rainbow Point is the highest point in the park, so you’ll find more snow there.
Read my guide to visiting Bryce Canyon National Park.
16. Haleakalā National Park, Hawaii
Haleakalā is a special park that is home to both volcanic landscapes and rainforests. Haleakala has a couple distinct areas - the summit district and the Kīpahulu District, which is on the coast on the Road to Hana. It’s full of variety and beauty.
Haleakalā has a big change in elevation and the summit can be quite cold during the winter months. Make sure to pack a heavy coat and be prepared for a chance of snow if you’ll be at the summit at sunrise. However, the coastal part of the park experiences hot and humid temperatures year round.
The Best Things To Do in Haleakala National Park:
- Watch the sunrise from the summit of the park (a reservation is required).
- Explore the Kīpahulu District, which is accessible via the Road to Hana.
- Hike across the crater floor on the Sliding Sands Trail.
- Enjoy the various overlooks from the summit district, including Red Hill, White Hill and the Leleiwi Overlook.
17. Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado
Rocky Mountain is one of the most popular US national parks for good reason. The park is full of mountain peaks, alpine lakes and waterfalls, and is beautiful year round.
This park is most popular in the summer, but it’s also very pretty in the winter months. While some roads will be closed, there are still some great opportunities for winter hiking. One of the best winter hikes is to Dream Lake, which is stunning in the winter months.
Plus, winter brings fewer crowds, and you won’t have to worry about the timed reservations in the summer. If you’re dreaming of a White Christmas in a national park, Rocky Mountain is a great choice!
The Best Things To Do in Rocky Mountain National Park (in the winter):
- Hike to Dream and Emerald Lake.
- Hike around Sprague Lake.
- Sled down the Hidden Valley Sledding Hill.
- Join a ranger-led snowshoe hike.
Pro Tip: Check at the visitor center or online to find out current conditions before heading out. You’ll likely need microspikes or snowshoes to safely hike in many parts of the park during the winter.
Read my springtime guide to Rocky Mountain National Park.
18. Joshua Tree National Park, California
Joshua Tree is a beautiful park known for its cacti, joshua trees and beautiful desert landscapes. It’s an amazing park for bouldering, hiking and enjoying the night skies.
Joshua Tree gets very hot in the summer and has mild winters. Snow is possible in the park, but it usually stays at the higher elevations and melts quickly.
The Best Things To Do in Joshua Tree National Park, California:
- Watch the sunrise at Cholla Cactus Garden.
- Hike to Arch and Heart Rock.
- Hike the Hidden Valley Trail.
- Watch the sunset from Keys View.
- Hike the FortyNine Palms Oasis Trail.
Pro Tip: I’ve experienced some of the most intense crowds in this park. Visit on a weekday if you can!
Read my itinerary for Joshua Tree National Park.
19. Pinnacles National Park, California
Pinnacles is known for its rock formations, caves and massive California condors. It’s a fun park for hiking and exploring.
Like many of the parks on this list, Pinnacles is a desert park that gets very hot in the summer and has mild winters. It snows a little bit in the park, but it’s rare and melts quickly.
The Best Things To Do in Pinnacles National Park:
- Explore the Talus Caves.
- Hike a loop around the park on the High Peaks Trail.
Final Thoughts
I hope this guide gives you some ideas on which national parks to visit in the winter! From the tropical parks in Hawaii to the desert parks of Arizona, winter is a great time for a national park road trip.
For more US national park guides, check out these blogs:
- The Best National Parks to Visit in the Summer
- The Best National Parks to Visit in April
- How to Avoid Crowds in National Parks
- An Epic Utah Mighty Five Road Trip
- The Best Things To Do in Bryce Canyon National Park
- The Perfect Death Valley Itinerary
- The Perfect Joshua Tree Itinerary
- The Best Things To Do in White Sands National Park
- An Epic West Texas and New Mexico National Park Road Trip
- The Perfect Zion National Park Itinerary
Thanks for Reading!
Let's stay in touch!
Join the Lost with Lydia email list to get monthly travel guides and tips!
