Great National Parks For a Winter Trip

Winter may be the best time to take a trip to the wilderness, for a majestic experience in a scenic wonderland. The national parks of the USA are typically open all year round, and if you pick your destination and time you can avoid the summer crowds and enjoy the natural scenery to the fullest. 

Not all wilderness is forbidding terrain – park rangers do a fantastic job of making their treasure lands accessible to the public at all times. Hiking, camping, hunkering down snug in the lodge or cabin, or simply driving the scenic routes – each national park has something different to offer, and here are some of the best ones for a winter visit. 

Mount Rainier National Park, WA

The great icon of the State of Washington, Mount Rainier ascends to 14,410 feet above sea level. It is an active volcano site so you’ll want to be cautious when you pay a visit to what’s known as the most glaciated peak in all the contiguous United States. The snowy peaks make this an ideal spot for a winter vacation if you love the snow, with a yearly average of 54 feet. You can participate in many activities such as skiing, snowboarding, climbing, sledding, and snowshoeing at this park. It’s important to learn what’s open and what local conditions are like, so check online before you go.

Yellowstone National Park, WY

Yellowstone is quite cold during winter, but it is also serenely beautiful with astounding scenic views and amazing wildlife that includes bison, elk and wolves. The geothermal geysers and endless winter activities to engage in make Yellowstone a unique winter getaway. Most of the roads into the park are closed with only Mammoth Hot Springs road open. However, snowmobiles, snowshoeing, and ATVs can access the park for incredible winter adventures. Lodging during your stay can be found at a number of locations including the Mammoth Hotel and Old Faithful Snow Lodge. Be prepared with the right winter clothing and gear to stay comfortable as you explore this beautiful snowbound setting.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park, TN

Great Smoky Mountains National Park enjoys moderate weather during winter, with snow and skiiinbg but also year-round fishing for those inclined. With free admission, America’s most visited national park offers a unique global ecosphere teeming with plant and wildlife diversity. Of course it’s well trafficked and winter offers a respite from crowds. Depending when you visit, you may catch a beautiful array of red, orange, and golden yellow leaf colors from the fall to winter change in the trees. The park offers stunning vistas of a winter wonderland as the winter snow and ice – and frozen waterfalls – set in. To access the park, most main roads are clear with the main gateway of Gatlinburg TN being one preferred entrance. Gatlinburg is bursting with attractions guaranteed to keep all family members happy, as well as unique shopping and tons of eateries. Hundreds of Gatlinburg cabins nestled in the foothills offer a luxurious home base for scenic adventures.

Bryce Canyon National Park, UT

Located in Utah, Bryce Canyon is a popular spot in the summer when the red rock spires and rock formations are in full glory. But this doesn’t mean that Bryce Canyon is not a great winter destination as well. The cold, dry air and vast open skies offer an abundance of day gazing and starlight amazement that make Bryce Canyon a magical destination to visit in winter. Keep in mind that it gets below freezing – appropriate winter gear is recommended, and required, in certain areas. There’s nothing like being warm enough in winter, and dressing warmly is part of the fun of a winter stay. If you’re looking for a quiet retreat with solitude among the snow-draped red rocks, then a visit to Bryce Canyon may be your next winter destination. Each February the Bryce Canyon Winter Festival happens, which you may want to target on your calendar for a fun winter experience.

Rocky Mountain National Park, CO

Colorado has some of the highest elevations in the United States, and in winter they look spectacular. There are several peaks you can explore at Rocky Mountain National Park. Situated along the continental divide, this park is excellent when it comes to skiing, hiking, sledding, and snowshoeing. There are 415 square miles of stunning mountainous landscapes that await you in this locale. One of the most popular is Trail Ridge Road, over 12,000 feet in elevation – and partly closed in winter. You have to pick your spots and your activities here in winter, but it’s worth it.

Glacier National Park, MTGlacier National Park, located in Montana, has a wide range of icy wonders. There are several massive glaciers in this location that shaped the land ten thousand years ago. In summer you can wander among the alpine meadows, pure forests, and the spectacular lakes. The park has more than 700 miles of hiking trails that give you a sense of solitude while exploring the wilderness. In winter, visit the lodges, historic chalets, and a portion of the famous Going-to-the-Sun Road. You need to enter the park by snowshoeing or skiing, so make sure you know before you go, to explore the truly magical time of winter in Glacier.