Given their stunning natural beauty, there’s really no “bad” time to visit a U.S. national park. That said, there’s something extra special about letting your eyes behold these striking destinations in the middle of winter. Think snow-dusted ridges at Arizona’s Grand Canyon, frosted desertscapes at Joshua Tree, and a blanket of white covering the towering caps at Denali in Alaska. Not only are these (and others) considered the best national parks to visit in winter for their beauty, but also because the chilly air tends to thin out the crowds. Bundle up and get ready to enjoy an other-worldly spin on these already heavenly destinations.
Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona
The Grand Canyon provides visitors with awe-inspiring views of its colorful canyon year round, but its potential for drama in the cold months makes it one of the best national parks to visit in winter. “Dramatic winter storms, bringing several inches of snow, are contrasted with sunny days, perfect for walking along the rim of the canyon,” the National Parks Service shares about the park in the winter season. “Crisp air and a dusting of snow bring a new perspective to the temples and buttes emerging from the canyon floor and provide a perfect backdrop to view the canyon’s flora and fauna.”
Do You Need a Reservation or Permit?
No, but you do need to pay a per-car entry fee. No permit is required for day hiking, though you do need a back country permit if you’re planning to stay overnight or camping below the rim.
Where to Stay:
Book a stay at the nearby Thunderbird Lodge, a contemporary accommodation with accessible rooms. Or stay at the historic, lodge-esque El Tovar, a design-forward national park hotel dating back to 1905 that’s located right at the Canyon’s edge.
What to See & Do
Head to the South Rim, which is open year round, and spot local wildlife (deer are abundant even in the winter). There are also shops you can peruse, and on-site cafes and restaurants, including the steakhouse at El Tovar.
What’s the Winter Weather Like?
While Arizona may be known for its hot weather in the state’s capital, the northern part of the state enjoys all four seasons. Winter can be quite cold, icy, and snowy. Be prepared for it to change on a dime.
Joshua Tree National Park, California
Ready to feel like you’ve escaped to another planet? Make your way to Joshua Tree National Park. It’s named after the unique tree-like flowering yucca plant, and is one of the very few places on earth where you’ll be able to see it. The park is also known for its epic boulders — a fun hiking experience full of scrambling that’s easier than it looks (but do dress accordingly) — and stunning sunset vistas that set on the outrageously gorgeous desertscapes (one of a handful of beautiful deserts in the world.)
This is one of the best national parks to visit in winter since the crowds are much thinner this time of year. Beyond having the trails to yourself, you’ll also have the chance to snag typically coveted camping spots, which fill up fast in the warmer months.
Do You Need a Reservation or Permit?
You need to pay a car-entry fee upon entering Joshua Tree National Park, which is valid for seven days. A permit is required for backpacking and overnight stays. Reservations are required for certain campgrounds, including Indian Cove, Black Rock, Jumbo Rocks, Ryan, Cottonwood, Sheep Pass Group Campground, Cottonwood Group Campground, and Indian Cove Group Campground.
Where to Stay
Not into camping but still want unique accommodations? Check into Autocamp, an upscale glamping destination that will surely delight.
What to See & Do
While visiting the area, pay a visit to Joshua Tree institutions like the famed Pappy and Harriet’s bar, Frontier Cafe, and the more upscale restaurant, La Copine.
What’s the Winter Weather Like?
Thanks to its location in Southern California, the park never gets too cold during the day (typically hovering in the low 60s). This milder climate makes Joshua Tree an ideal spot for lengthy hikes (though don’t forget to pack plenty of water and let someone know which route you’re taking as cell service in the park is essentially non-existent).
Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Tennessee
A visit to the Great Smoky Mountains will leave you changed, and it’s considered one of the best national parks to visit in winter. The views of the tree-covered mountains can make you understand the great vastness of this beautiful earth, and it’s an experience only heightened in the winter. It’s then that you may catch a glimpse of a dusting of snow softly blanketing the treetops at the very peaks of the mountains. It’s when you can explore for miles on end without seeing another soul in sight.
Do You Need a Reservation or Permit?
There’s no entrance fee to get into the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. However, parking tags are required if you’re parking longer than 15 minutes. There’s no permit required for day hiking, but you do need a back country permit and advanced reservations if you’re planning to camp overnight.
Where to Stay
Stay close by booking a stay at Buckberry Lodge, a charming national parks lodging option that offers spectacular views from every suite.
What to See & Do:
Hiking is epic during winter in this national park since the fallen leaves allow for greater visibility as you ascend. Two popular winter hikes include the Laurel Falls Trail and Mt. Cammerer Fire Tower.
What’s the Winter Weather Like?
The Great Smoky Mountains is another place that thankfully doesn’t become too frigid in the winter. Typical daytime temperatures in the 50s, so a light jacket and a beanie should do.
Denali National Park, Alaska
Lean into winter by making your way north — as in way, way north — to Denali National Park, which remains open throughout the year. There is also one major reason to head to this snowy (and very chilly) destination in winter, and that’s to potentially see the Northern Lights. The winter months provide the prime opportunity to see the glowing lights hover overhead. Plan a trip for several days to ensure you get at least one clear evening to watch the green and purple strands dance through the heavens.
Do You Need a Reservation or Permit?
Denali charges a per-car entry fee. Permits are required when backpacking (but are free), and no permits are required for day hikes. Overnight reservations at campgrounds are required.
Where to Stay
Book a getaway at Tonglen Lake Lodge, where you can stay in a private cabin and further lean into seclusion.
What to See & Do
Vehicle access can be limited, but the park website notes that there are still plenty of trails accessible for skiing, snowshoeing, and winter hiking.
What’s the Winter Weather Like?
Denali is a very wintry destination November through February, so dress in appropriate layers and make sure to wear the right shoes.
Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, Hawaii
Want to hit up a national park sans chill? Make your way to Hawaii to spend a few days exploring Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. Even in Hawaii, the winter months bring a splendid off-season vibe, with fewer travelers, meaning you have more space to yourself. The winter weather tends to sit right at 70 degrees (though the temperature will vary greatly depending on your elevation — snow is even a possibility here), making for a sublime place to still feel the warmth of the sun.
Do You Need a Reservation or Permit?
No, but you do need to pay a per-car entry fee and a permit is required for back country visits that include overnight hiking.
Where to Stay
Check into the Lotus Garden Cottages, a destination filled with lovely cedar cabins and a spot that will help you plot out the perfect national park adventure.
What to See & Do
Along with hiking within the national park (favorites include Crater Rim Trail and Kipuka Puaulu Trail), visit popular sites like the lava tubes or even to drive the Chain of Craters Road. Also check out the Pu‘u Loa Petroglyphs, Sulphur Banks, and Hōlei Sea Arch.
What’s the Winter Weather Like?
Hawaii is known for its year-round temperate weather, but it can get slightly cooler in December through February with rare potential for snow depending on your altitude. Volcanoes is one of the best national parks to visit in winter if you prefer warmer climates but want to escape summer crowds.
