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15 BEST National Parks to Visit in March (+Road Trip Guide)

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ARTICLE OVERVIEW: Best National Parks to Visit in March

Are you looking for the best national parks to visit in March? We’ve done the legwork to help you make decisions whether you’re looking for Spring Break ideas or the wonders of specific national parks in March.

Here’s why March Madness applies as much to the national parks as it does to college basketball – March is a tough month to bet on. Is March in spring? Is spring warm, or do you seek epic spring snow? National parks in March mix a cocktail of sunburns, mud, blizzards, and tornadoes along with fresh powder, dazzling wildflowers, and respite from winter doldrums (even in Alaska!).

That’s why we’re dedicated to giving you realistic information about the most popular and most rewarding experiences in national parks in March – not just in spring. Mid-March, late March, and April might as well be three different months.

Treat this list as a buffet, not a countdown (though one national park in March CLEARLY stands out). If you’re searching for fresh powder, we got you. Need a tropical escape? Just you wait. Need spring break ideas for families without rowdy college crowds. Yup. How about a road trip planner? We’re idling with information.

Online Editor & Social Media Coordinator

Jennifer Hardy

Spring Break Ideas for National Parks in March Graphic
TABLE OF CONTENTS: Best National Parks to Visit in March

Table of Contents: Best National Parks to Visit in March

When Does Spring Start?

We hear the word March and think of spring blooms and warm weather. However, the calendar, weather, and meteorologists have a slightly different take.

  • From a calendar perspective, spring begins on the spring equinox, which in the Northern Hemisphere typically falls on March 20th or 21st. This marks the point when day and night are approximately equal in length. That means, at most, 12 days of March are spring, with the rest stuck in winter.
  • In contrast, from a meteorological perspective, the first day of spring is March 1st. This is because meteorologists and climatologists break the seasons down into 3-month groups based on the annual temperature cycle and weather patterns. So, spring is defined for them as the months of March, April, and May.

Here’s the bottom line – each national park has its own definition of spring weather and is even narrowed down to March vs April weather. It’s a tricky time to plan a trip with some closures in effect, and hard to predict long-range weather patterns.

MORE: More Than Just Parks National Park by Season Guide

5 Fast Facts about National Parks in March

  1. Daylight saving time starts the second Sunday in March. Keep this in mind when planning flights and tour times.
  2. Tornado season begins in March throughout the Plains, Midwest, and South. The peak season happens in April and May, but know basic tornado safety steps.
  3. Spring break leads to larger crowds at parks than you might have expected. While there’s no formal alignment nationwide, expect mid-to-late March breaks. Many New England schools take a break in February and then in April.
  4. Whether you are visiting wildflower fields or volcanic craters, don’t take anything from national parks. It’s against the law, and in the case of Hawaii’s national parks, you could suffer the curse of Pele.
  5. Check the Space Forecast if you’re going to a Dark Sky Park, as you might get a chance to see the Northern Lights!
An illuminated tent and campfire under starry skies.
Is this heaven? No, it’s a Dark Sky Park

Best Warm Weather in March Parks

These locations can be great for spring break ideas with families or students looking to let off some steam. Picture perfect weather with lower humidity compared to late spring or summer, making these ideal for sun-seekers.

15. Biscayne National Park

What better place to enjoy warm weather for Spring Break than 65 miles from the original Spring Break destination of Fort Lauderdale? Biscayne National Park in Florida offers mainland and island activities across three keys: Boca Chita, Elliott, and Adams. These keys make up the northernmost part of the Florida Keys.

Anglers, boaters and paddlers get some of the calmest seas of the year. Biscayne National Park offers an ideal Spring Break for families or those who want an alternative spring break to Lauderdale or South Beach. Even if you don’t want to go to the Keys, paddle trails are located on the beachfront.

The snorkeling is epic, and fishing and lobstering are allowed in the park.

Plus, you’re just 58 miles from our next park.

NOTE: Do not get Biscayne National Park confused with Key Biscayne. The two sit nearly 50 miles apart.

Boca Chita Key, Biscayne national park Florida
(NPS)

14. Everglades National Park

Everglades National Park in March gives off late spring vibes. Warm weather keeps you in t-shirts and shorts, but the humidity and mosquitoes haven’t taken over yet. March stays in the Dry Season, too, with hurricane season 2-3 months away.

Three entrances lead into Everglades National Park in March, and they aren’t connected. The farthest distance is 145 miles between the Gulf Coast entrance and the Greater Miami Area entrance.

Each park section includes paddling opportunities. Everglades National Park Institute offers guided tours as well. The best spot to see alligators (intentionally) is Anhing Trail. Manatees, the “Sea Cow,” is a gentle giant best views in the Flamingo section.

True Story: I kayaked this area, and two guys on a SUP looked at me and were pointing and “WOWing.” I screamed, “It better not be a shark!” It wasn’t. Two manatees were riding right under my kayak. It was euphoric. 10/10. Highly recommend.

Everglades National Park at sunset, one of the best national parks to visit in March.
Everglades National Park from above. (Shutterstock/ocudrone)

13. Dry Tortugas National Park

About 70 miles west of Key West is a national park that is 99% water and 100% one of the best national parks to visit in March – Dry Tortugas.

Named after the numerous sea turtles on the island (Tortuga = “Turtle” in Spanish) and the fact that no fresh water is available (dry), this is a tropical paradise for nature lovers. This park boasts historic Fort Jefferson, snorkeling around moat walls and shipwrecks, and a paddle dream come true.

What really annoys me, and will inevitably annoy you, is people saying Dry Tortugas is one of the least visited parks. Sure, statistically, it’s true. Then you plan a trip there and realize how in demand this park really is and feel bamboozled.

Dry Tortugas Advice
  • Book the ferry as soon as humanly possible unless you’re bringing a boat. Reservations sell out up to a year in advance. Expect to pay around $220 per person for the 2-hour and 15-minute ride. Double or triple that if you prefer a seaplane.
  • Camping is allowed but limited. A special version of the ferry takes campers and gear. If you don’t have a camping reservation, you leave with the ferry around 3pm.
  • Kayak/SUP rentals aren’t at the park. If you want to paddle it, bring it with you – and the ferry only allows limited numbers.
  • The park offers no services – food, drink (even water). Bring everything you need with you. The ferry will have meals, drinks, and restrooms.

My best advice as a former Floridian is this – book a tour for the activity of your choice out of Key West. Need more planning help? Here’s a list of our Top 10 Things to Do in Dry Tortugas.

Florida Landmarks
aerial view of Fort Jefferson in the Dry Tortugas National Park, Florida. (Shutterstock-Mia2you)

12. Virgin Islands National Park

If you’ve had it up to HERE with winter, visiting Virgin Islands National Park in March awaits. Whether you take a Virgin Islands cruise or fly into the islands, the national park fills two-thirds of St. John. Relax in nature without the more lively spirits of the other islands.

March hits at the end of peak season, and historically, it is the most visited month at Virgin Islands National Park. Also, it holds the two months that visitors topped 100,000 in the park’s history.

Beaches glow with white sand, while ruins scattered through the jungle offer unique hikes. Explore ancient artifacts or snorkel among sea turtles. Planning a wedding? For just $25, purchase a special use permit to say “I Do” in this magical place.

annaberg plantation ruins st john virgin islands national park

Best Snow and Spring Skiing in National Parks

Spring skiing offers heartbreak and heaven, depending on the level of fresh powder ahead. The best part of skiing in March is that – barring a freak act of nature – at least SOME snow is there that “doesn’t look too bad.” Then, years like 2022 come with historic snowfall, making any park in a snowy region a no-brainer.

These parks include the best chances of great powder days in and near national parks. One quick note – this is for people who don’t mind giving up some amenities of national parks or full access while still craving the backcountry trails.

11. Rocky Mountain National Park

One of the best national parks to visit in March will always be Rocky Mountain National Park – if you like snow. However, don’t call it spring. March and April bring the most snowfall of the entire year (on average). Above 8,000 feet, spring doesn’t even come to mind until at least May.

Snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, sledding, and hiking among the winter wonderland feel like your own personal Narnia. Trail access can be limited or more challenging depending on the snow depth. Luckily, the list of trail conditions stays updated.

Trail Ridge Road closes for the winter, and road conditions in the park are updated on X (formerly Twitter). Snow seekers love Spring Break ideas in Colorado, and this is the Apex of adventure.

March also brings the comically macabre Frozen Dead Guy Days to nearby Estes Park.

bear lake rocky mountain national park winter bear lake
Rocky Mountain National Park

10. Grand Teton National Park

Remember, we’re talking about the best national parks in March for people who love snow. That’s how Grand Teton made this list. If I say “Corduroy,” and you think of finely groomed trails instead of clothing, you’re in the right place.

First, due to the road closure between Yellowstone and Grand Teton, visitors should fly into Jackson Hole, Wyoming. A different route leads to West Yellowstone in winter if you prefer.

As far as spring break ideas go, you can’t have more versatility in winter. Major ski resorts offer challenging slows, or you can glide or walk through miles of mountains at Grand Teton. National Elk Refuge offers sleigh rides through early April, and wildlife sightings are common across the region – easy to spot in a fresh blanket of white snow.

You can start planning spring break ideas in Wyoming with this helpful Snow Desk lesson planning from park rangers. Did I mention the Jackson Hole Food & Wine Fest in early March?

grand teton national park wyoming

9. Olympic National Park

One thing that makes Olympic one of the best national parks to visit in March is that you’ll likely experience winter and spring on the same day! From sea level on the Washington coastline to Mount Olympus at 7,980 feet, your spring break ideas can include the beach and a snowboard.

As another bonus, even if winter weather slams the mountain, the coast and rainforest await. Beach buddies can watch serious swells coming ashore. The Olympic Wilderness opens the potential for backcountry camping in your own personal snow globe.

Even five low-country trails are generally accessible in March. Head to Hurricane Ridge (always check road conditions first) to visit the Hurricane Ridge Ski & Snowboard Area.

The versatility of Olympic National Park puts it in a great for every month, but the March visitor count means smaller crowds and more room on the trails and slopes.

Hurricane Ridge in snow and one of the best national parks to visit in march
Hurricane Ridge gets some of the best snow in the range. (Shutterstock/DPham)

8. Glacier National Park

Glacier National Park in March suits those who love the park and want solitude. Forget timed entry reservations and Going-to-the-Sun Road traffic. Those hardy enough to explore the March winter experience in Glacier get rewarded with nearly empty trails, abundant wildlife sights, and skiing or walking part of GTTSR. It’s open through McDonald Lodge.

Numerous cross-country trails keep you busy, and Apgar Campground can check off a bucket list for winter overnight experience. Keep an eye out for stunning stars and maybe the Northern Lights.

March also holds some dates for the Brash Winter Rodeo in nearby Kalispell.

As noted above, this is a park in March for snow lovers. It is not the best month to visit Glacier National Park. That’s in the summer.

Mountains reflect on Lake McDonald, making this one of the best national parks to visit in March for those seeking winter solitude
March is a great time for reflection in Glacier National Park (NPS Photo)

7. Crater Lake

With an average of 41 to 45 feet of snow each winter, Crater Lake is one of the best national parks to visit in March for a snow day.

Snow lovers of all ages and experience levels enjoy the options here, including sledding, skiing, snowboarding, cross-country skiing, backcountry camping, and snowmobiling.

The apex adventure at Crater Lake National Park in March comes with a multi-night 31-mile loop around the lake.

Be prepared for deep snow, changing conditions, and the possibility you won’t even see the lake when clouds or fog arrive. Indeed, that’s about 50% of the time.

Snow clearing begins in mid-April, offering March as the last “winter” month to enjoy the solitude of being snowbound.

crater lake winter, winter crater lake national park
Crater Lake National Park winter. (NPS)

National Park Spring Break Ideas for Families

6. Big Bend National Park

Big Bend National Park is not only among the best national parks to visit in March, but it’s also ideal for those who want warm national parks in March and low crowd volume.

I might slightly contradict myself by saying March is the busiest month of the year in Big Bend, but hear me out. Zion’s volume in March fits 400,000 people in the 229-square-mile landscape. Meantime, Big Bend National Park spans 1,252 square miles and is “busy” when 83,000 people visit in March–there’s room for everyone while still experiencing solitude.

Here are some highlights of what to expect.

  • Scenic Drives: Choose from paved to dirt to primitive roads, going as remote as you’d like (with the right vehicle, of course).
  • Trails: With desert, mountain, and Rio Grande River adventures, trails suit every skill level.
  • Go to Mexico: Visit Bouqillas, Mexico, just across the border. You will need a passport to do that.
  • Stargazing: Big Bend National Park offers some of the darkest skies on this continent. Across West Texas, you’ll discover many astrotourism and stargazing opportunities, like stargazing camping domes.

Finally, if you’re like me and love that “perfect” warm weather and dry air, Big Bend National Park brings it BIGTIME in March.

Desert flowers stand out among a sunset view of mountains at Big Bend National Park. It's one of the best national parks to visit in March for the ideal weather and clear skies.
Views like this make Lost Mine Trail in Big Bend National Park one of the most spectacular. (Shutterstock/David ODell)

5. Guadalupe Mountains

Yet another Texas park makes the list of best national parks to visit in March, and this one comes with its trifecta of ecosystems and a large wilderness area with few roads. You can explore the desert, the canyon, and the alpine areas leading to the tallest peaks in Texas- including its own El Capitan.

Elevations range from 3,600 feet to 8,750 feet. The Salt Basin Dunes are the same formation as Badwater Basin in Death Valley National Park. Two pretty freakin’ grand canyons await at Dog Canyon and McKittrick Canyon. State high-point chasers want Guadalupe Peak on their list.

One of the toughest hikes in Guadalupe Mountains National Park is Devil’s Hall. Even at four miles roundtrip and 548 feet of elevation gain, scrambling over boulders, mud, and debris should be only attempted by experienced scramblers.

SPRING BREAK IDEAS: You can easily knock out three national parks on a spring break family week-long trip. Guadalupe Mountains is 35 miles from Carlsbad Caverns. White Sands National Park sits 180 miles from Carlsbad Caverns. March is an excellent month to visit either of those, too.

Guadalupe Mountains and its own version of El Capitan standing in the West Texas desert showcase one of the best national parks to visit in March.

4. Cuyahoga Valley National Park

Cuyahoga Valley National Park is one of the best national parks for families to visit in March because of the diversity in landscape, history, and urban areas nearby. Plus, the Ohio and Erie Canalway National Heritage Area goes through the park.

The only caveat here comes with the weather. In addition, this park looks different in early March compared to late March in most years.

A brisk winter means ice fishing, hiking, snowshoeing, snow tubing and skiing. Brandywine Ski Resort might stay open until mid-March but always check the slope report. As March gets ready to go out like a lamb, wildflowers begin to bloom, and waterfalls become more robust.

For more family spring break ideas, take the three-hour drive to Hocking Hills State Park.

The Brandywine Falls waterfall drops down dark rocks into a pool of water below.
Brandywine Falls in Cuyahoga Valley National Park.

3. Mammoth Cave National Park

Mammoth Cave National Park is one of the best national parks to visit in March its accolades alone. Inside the 82-square-mile park, you’ll find the longest cave system on Earth, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, an International Biosphere Reserve, and an International Dark Sky Park.

Cave tours run throughout the year, with 20 options, but about 6-10 are offered at one time, covering 425 miles of chartered caves. Even though summer is the peak season for tourists, book your cave tours in advance – these often sell out, especially during spring breaks and other holidays.

Above ground, you’ll see the top of the cave landscape, being able to track the cave location beneath your feet or go on the trail to explore the woods. The Green River offers water activities. Camping underneath the Kentucky sky in March offers a more pleasant experience than the humid summer.

Inside Mammoth Cave National Park
A sample of the self-guided tour in Mammoth Cave National Park. (Shutterstock/Ko Zatu)

Two Absolute Best National Parks in March

2. Joshua Tree National Park in March

Joshua Tree crowds peak in March, bringing in more than 400,000 people to this desert oasis just outside LA. Wildflowers peak here in March in the higher elevations, at least 3,000 feet.

Rock climbers flock here throughout the year, but March brings particularly clear skies and comfortable temperatures. Daytime hikes don’t bring the scorching summer heat, and nights are crisp for camping. This is also a Dark Sky Park, so the nightlife is epic.

If you like music, you might want to consider visiting Joshua Tree National Park in May when the Joshua Tree Music Festival happens just outside the park. If the crowds bother you, visit Joshua Tree in October when crowds are cut in half, and the Dark Sky Party happens.

1. Death Valley National Park

It should come as no surprise that the best national park to visit in March is Death Valley National Park. However, I’m happy to have a lively debate in the comments section.

While Joshua Tree crams 400,000 people into 1,242 square miles, Death Valley is peaking around 145,000 people across 5,270 miles. Wildflower season peaks in Death Valley during March, starting as early as February and running through April. Above 3,00 feet, March starts the blooms through early May. Above 8,000 feet, blooms can come as late as early May.

Always check the park website to see if a Super Bloom is happening.

In addition to Badwater Basins lowest spot in the country, the Ubehebe Crater, a tour of Star Wars movie locations, sand dunes, mining remnants, and trails leading to scenic stunners, you get the best weather the desert offers.

Another reason for Death Valley being one of the best national parks to visit in March is the Dark Sky Festival. Like Big Bend, Death Valley is up there for the most pristine skies you can find nationwide.

Death Valley Super Bloom makes this one of the best national parks to visit in March.
March explodes with wildflower colors across Death Valley National Park. (Shutterstock/Graeme Somerville)

Utah Mighty Five in March

Most people agree any one of the Mighty 5 in Utah, from Arches to Zion, could be the best in any month. One Spring Break idea for families, friends, or couples is the Utah Mighty 5 Road Trip. That way, you can choose the park with the best weather or options on a given day.

Honestly, they could all be among the best national parks to visit in March for specific reasons. Each one could face disqualification for another, depending on what you want. Let’s break it down.

Pros & Cons of Utah National Parks in March

TempsElevationCrowdsProsCons
Arches National Park in March60° / 34° 4,085 to 5,653 feetMedium
Busiest month since October		Timed Entry doesn’t start until April 1. Warmest weather of the 5.Parking lots fill quickly during Spring Break and weekends
Bryce Canyon National Park in March44° / 19° 7,664′ (rim)Low
5th Least Visited Month		Potential for seeing the canyon covered in snow & doing winter activitiesThe higher elevation can lead to weather-related closures
Canyonlands National Park in March59° / 30°3,900′ – 7,180′Low
6th Most/Least Visited Month		Daytime temps are pleasant, events in Moab, camping accessMight be a little too chilly for some at night (or during the day)
Capitol Reef National Park in March55° / 313,887 – 8,960′Low to Medium
5th Least Visited Month		Most popular month for backpacking in park. Fruita Campground can be reserved.Wildflower season still a few weeks/months away
Zion National Park in March56° / 30°3,666′ – 8,726′Medium
4th Least Visited Month		Zion shuttle resumes service. The start of the busy season, so crowds aren’t as bad.Weekends and spring break could pack park. The Narrows could be closed due to high water.
All temperatures Farenheit

Bryce Canyon National Park Facts
Panoramic view of amazing hoodoo sandstone formations in scenic Bryce Canyon National Park in beautiful golden morning light at sunrise with dramatic sky and blue sky. (Shutterstock-canadastock)

What about Alaska in March?

Don’t sleep on Alaska in March. In fact, winter fans celebrate March across Alaska for several reasons. The Alaska weather in March stays cold enough to get epic powder on the slopes while being “tolerable” for those who are used to cold weather. Days are becoming longer and wildlife starts to wake from winter snoozes.

That’s just to start.

The Iditarod Race

The “Last Great Race” serves up weeks chasing the mushers and dogs through the state, starting near Anchorage and ending 1,000 miles away in Nome.

Fur Rondy

The Fur Rondy is Alaska’s largest winter festival celebrating the state’s pioneering spirit with quirky events like elite snow sculpture contests, running through town with reindeer, and a massive blanket toss, attracting over 100,000 visitors annually. This Anchorage annual tradition started in 1935.

Northern Lights

Aurora chasers – aka, the Northern Lights – light up when they hear March is one of the best months of the entire year for seeing the celestial showcase in Alaska. Keep in mind, through 2025, solar activity peaks in Solar Cycle 25.

Alaska’s National Parks in March

From Anchorage, the drive to Denali National Park comes in at four hours. Riley Creek Campground is open (and free) through May. In fact, you’ll largely get the park to yourself as the most visitation Denali has seen in the past decade is 5,400 and that was in 2023.

South of Anchorage, Kenai Fjords National Park awaits just 2.5 hours away. The park is open with limited services. However, you can still walk or snowmobile in the park to see Exit Glacier.

Within six hours of each other, you can see the Iditarod, run with reindeer, visit two national parks, see the highest peak in America, and possibly repeatedly see the Northern Lights.

Northern Lights Aurora Borealis over Denali National Park
March is one of the best months to view the Northern Lights in Alaska. (Shutterstock/Susan Lotter)

Plan a National Park Road Trip

A spring break road trip leads you to more public lands instead of just committing to one or two. We’ve put together extensive guides to help you find the road trip that suits your needs. Before you get started, check out the Road Trip Essentials and Road Trip Planning Tools based on our love of the open road and years of exploring thousands of miles.

Colorado Road Trip
Road trips in March offer a chance to see the fluctuating seasonal shifts as you go. (Shutterstock/Jay Krishnan)

National Parks to Avoid in March

One park stays off-limits in March, and that’s Isle Royale National Park. The park closes annually from November 1 through April 15.

Cross Acadia National Park in March off your list if you don’t have backup plans. Barring an epic winter snow event, March’s “march” toward spring leaves melting snow, making a muddy muss – they even call it “Mud Season” instead of spring.

Trails can be closed to protect their integrity, and that includes the carriage roads that remain open all winter. Aim for a late April visit to get a sweeter spot with low crowds and better weather.

Voyageurs National Park in March gets stuck in that same rut as Acadia in Maine. The first part of the month might be “winter” enough, but when the snow and ice start to melt, it ends up unsafe on land and water.

You don’t have to rule the latter two out, but avoid getting your hopes up.

Two wolves walk in deep snow on Isle Royale.
The only living creatures allowed at Isle Royale through mid-April are wolves and moose. (NPS Photo)

List of Best National Parks in March

  1. Death Valley National Park
  2. Joshua Tree National Park
  3. Mammoth Cave National Park
  4. Cuyahoga Valley National Park
  5. Guadalupe Mountains National Park
  6. Big Bend National Park
  7. Crater Lake National Park
  8. Glacier National Park
  9. Olympic National Park
  10. Grand Teton National Park
  11. Rocky Mountain National Park
  12. Virgin Islands National Park
  13. Dry Tortugas National Park
  14. Everglades National Park
  15. Biscayne National Park
ibex dunes death valley

Pin Best National Parks to Visit in March

Spring Break Ideas for National Parks in March Graphic
Spring Break Ideas for National Parks in March Graphic

January: 10 Best National Parks To Visit in January

February: 15 BEST National Parks to Visit in February (From Snow to Tropical)

May: 15 BEST US National Parks to Visit in MAY (+2 Parks to Avoid!) 2023

October: 15 BEST National Parks to Visit in October (+ 3 to Avoid)

November: 15 BEST National Parks to Visit in November (+Holiday Hours)

December: 15 Best National Parks to Visit in December (+2 to Avoid!)

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  1. NEO'er says

    You must be joking about visiting Cuyahoga Valley NP in March, right? Have you actually ever been to North Eastern Ohio in March? If Depression had a physical location, that would be it.

    Reply

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