Think National Parks are only for summer vacation?

Think again!

In fact, some National Parks are amazing to visit not only all year round but especially in the winter. That’s what we’re going to cover in this post.

So, if you love being outdoors in the winter, beautiful nature, and frolicking in the snow, you’re in luck, this list of best National Parks to visit in the winter is right up your alley.

Pack those snowshoes, and let’s go!

Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona

Grand Canyon during winter, with light snow on the mountains

Here’s one way to beat the crowds at the Grand Canyon National Park, go during the winter! Not only are you still going to have incredible views, but you still have access to all sorts of trails. The south rim is open year-round and camping is available as is the Grand Canyon Train.

Arches National Park, Utah

Arches National Park has to be one of the most beautiful and unique parks in the entire system any time of the year. However, when the winter comes, a white dusting of snow provides a breathtaking contrast with the red rocks of the park. The park is open year-round for visits.

Acadia National Park, Maine

Acadia National Park bridge during winter with snow on it, frozen creek underneath

Love backcountry cross-country skiing and snowshoeing or winter hiking? You are going to find Acadia National Park hard to beat. The pristine beauty of this park offers the best of both worlds, hills, and mountains as well as a rugged coastline.

Shenandoah National Park, Virginia

You don’t have to head to remote destinations to find a great winter friendly park, and Shenandoah National Park is a perfect example. Only 75 miles from Washington DC, this Virginia gem offers hiking all year, and the Skyline Drive is open, weather permitting all winter.

Joshua Tree National Park, California

Joshua Tree National Park during winter. Covered in a snow on a sunny day.

Joshua Tree National Park is located in the California desert. While that means scorching temperatures all summer, winter brings some relief. Daytime temps range in the high 50s to 60 degrees which makes it perfect (and comfortable) hiking weather to enjoy the trails.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park, North Carolina

There’s a reason why Great Smoky Mountains National Park is America’s most visited. That doesn’t change during the winter where the forest in this area becomes a real winter wonderland. Visitors can still navigate trails and are more likely to spot wildlife.

Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming

Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming in winter

If you’re hardy enough to brave the chill, Yellowstone National Park offers a bevy of outdoor experiences all winter long. Be prepared for road closings due to weather, but if you have snowmobiles, snow coaches, snowshoes, and skis, you’ll be set to experience Old Faithful.

Get Outside!

If you love spending time outdoors, especially in the winter, there are still plenty of options for you to visit. Grab your skis, trail map, and camera while you’re packing your car. National Parks are incredible spots all year round; you don’t have to wait for the summer to experience these first hand. Get started planning your trip, and when you do- take a look at some of the best last-minute hotel deals on our sister site, HotelCoupons.com.