Winter transforms some of America’s most iconic national parks into breathtaking wonderlands, offering experiences that are as serene as they are spectacular. From snow-draped mountains to frost-covered forests, these parks showcase nature’s beauty in an entirely new light. Don’t let the cold keep you from getting your dose of the great outdoors. Take a look at our list of the 5 best national parks to visit in the winter, pack your bags, and make it happen. Whether you’re a fan of snowshoeing through quiet trails, spotting wildlife in their winter habitats, or simply soaking in the peace of uncrowded landscapes, exploring national parks in the winter promises unforgettable adventures.
In this guide, we’ll highlight the 5 best national parks to visit during the colder months, complete with tips on what makes each destination unique, the activities you can enjoy, and why winter might just be the perfect time to plan your next outdoor escape. So bundle up with your favorite blanket and get ready to embrace the chill!
Best National Parks For Winter
1. Yellowstone National Park (Wyoming, Montana, Idaho)
Yellowstone is one of the top most popular of all the national parks in the US, but the majority of people save their trip for the summertime. And while there is no shortage of breathtaking canyons, geysers, and wildlife in the warmer months, the winter months have a whole new stunning story to tell.
Interestingly, a lot of the roads and trails are closed off in the colder months. Closed off to cars that is. But winter Yellowstone offers a more hands-on and up-close approach with snowmobiles, winter hiking, snowshoeing, and cross country skiing that you just can’t get on foot or from the car window. So park your car, grab your hat, and slip out into the snow to enjoy the wonders of Yellowstone National Park in the winter.
Why Visit Yellowstone National Park in the Winter
- West Yellowstone, Montana, is one of the “Top 10 Winter Towns”
- Experience hot springs, mud pots, and geysers such as Old Faithful
- Spot wildlife like bison, elk, and wolves, and easily see their tracks in the snow.
- Sledding, guided tours, ice skating, ice fishing, snowshoeing, snowmobiles, sled dog rides.
2. Grand Canyon National Park (Arizona)
If you’ve already been to the Grand Canyon, you know it seriously lives up to its name. But just like many other national beauties, its winter wonders are severely overlooked. The clear skies and sun placement make for some truly incredible sunsets, and the temperatures are actually more temperate in the winter. The white blanket of snow can also make wildlife easier to spot, and some roads are only open to shuttles in the winter months, so there are truly some unique views only December and January tourists get to explore.
Why Visit Grand Canyon National Park in the Winter:
- Breathtaking views of The South Rim with snow
- Elk, California condors, ravens, and Abert's squirrels often spotted
- Take a winter road trip and enjoy the beautiful scenic drives
- Winter hiking recommended with slip-on shoe traction devices and trekking poles.
- Phantom Ranch and Bright Angel Campground have milder temperatures in the winter.
- Backcountry camping permits are easier to get during winter
- Winter photography of the canyon at sunrise and sunset.
3. Yosemite National Park (California)
Speaking of amazing sunset and sunrise colors, Yosemite is another great location to watch the sun in all its glory. And as an extra bonus, you don’t have to get up at an ungodly hour to see it, like you would in the summertime. There are also plenty of winter hikes open to take on foot or with snowshoes where you can enjoy the granite cliffs and waterfalls. And of course the museum is open year round if you want to learn a little more about the park while you warm up.
Why Visit Yosemite National Park in the Winter:
- Sunrise at Tunnel View
- Pullouts along meadows to see these amazing landmarks: El Capitan, Yosemite Falls, Half Dome, and Sentinel Rock
- Winter hiking, snowshoeing, and skiing.
- Yosemite Museum, Yosemite Exploration Center, and the Ansel Adams Gallery for some great indoor education.
4. Bryce Canyon National Park (Utah)
The red rocks of Bryce Canyon National Park are stunning. And while you would think the snow would take away from their bright red beauty, you would be wrong. The snow almost accentuates the view, making the color pop even more. Additionally, while obviously Bryce Canyon is cold in the winter, it’s also more dry, sunny, and less windy than the warmer months, so it’s more than bearable.
Why Visit Bryce Canyon National Park in the Winter
- Snowshoeing and cross country skiing are great options, but a lot of hikes are even doable with a good pair of snow boots.
- Snowshoe Program with all the gear available at no cost, and tour guided hikes if desired
- Ranger-guided, full moon snowshoe hikes from November through March
- Amphitheaters inside the canyon are comfortable and sheltered.
- Less snowfall in the Grand Staircase, great for exploring
Rocky Mountain National Park (Colorado)
With its snow-covered mountain peaks and frozen waterfalls, you’re not going to want to miss Rocky Mountain National Park in the winter. Be aware that the weather changes on a dime, but if you bundle up, and keep an eye on the safety and weather conditions, you’ll be able to have the adventure of a lifetime. There’s just something serene and almost sacred about seeing the world’s wonders blanketed in snow, and to be in the middle of it all with your snowshoes or skis? There’s just nothing like it.
Why Visit Rocky Mountain National Park in the Winter:
- Sledding, snowshoeing, cross country skiing
- Ranger led snowshoe walks
- Opportunities to see wildlife like snowshoe hare, White-tailed ptarmigan, coyote, elk, Mule deer, bald eagles and Clark's nutcrackers
Take That Winter Road Trip
Don’t let the cold winter months get you down, or keep you from enjoying the great outdoors. You don’t have to pack away your hiking boots and wait till the world thaws out in spring. There is still so much to explore, and ways to fill that adventurous heart inside you. So get out there and do what you love best!
These are obviously not the only national parks open in the wintertime, and certainly there are others equally as spectacular. But these are just 5 of the best national parks to visit in the winter, or at least our very favorites, and we hope soon they’ll be yours too.
