Winter in Acadia National Park offers everything you want in a Downeast winter island getaway – crisp temperatures, up to six feet of snow, and angry waves crashing on the ragged cliffs.

Acadia sits at the heart of Mount Desert Island in Maine, with the other section of the park on Schoodic Peninsula, off the mainland. You can take a ferry to get to the “Quiet Side of Acadia” in winter.

Winter activities include snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, snowmobiling, and even ice climbing. If you don’t mind snow and cold weather and want to beat the crowds, this can be a great time to visit.

Don’t let anyone tell you “Acadia is closed,” because even with the limitations, the winter wonderland is all yours.

Table of Contents: Acadia in Winter

6 Things to Know About Acadia in Winter

1. You’ll pay $35 per vehicle or $20 per person if you’re walking through the entrance. If you have an interagency pass, like the America the Beautiful annual pass, you’ll get free entry to Acadia and about 2,000 other public lands for a year.
2. Acadia National Park is NOT closed in the winter. Even with the road closures, you’ll still get a lot of land and sea to cover. The miles of carriage roads stay open as weather permits.
3. Schoodic Peninsula’s scenic drive and trails are open year-round, weather permitting. Frenchman’s Bay doesn’t freeze over, so a ferry runs back and forth between Bar Harbor and Winter Harbor. You can also drive there in an hour.
4. Bar Harbor, Acadia’s anchor town, offers many entertainment and overnight options. This is my favorite hotel, right in the heart of it all. We can confirm the Inn at Mount Desert is open throughout the winter.
5. No winter camping of any kind is allowed in the park. Yes, even the popular Schoodic Woods Campground closes. You’ll be hard-pressed to find any campsite near MDI until spring. We called around every campsite we could find, and all are open from May or June through early October.
6. The Bar Harbor Chamber of Commerce is the park headquarters for the winter. You’ll find it in town at the corner of Main and Cottage. Save this number in your phone now – (207) 288-3338.

Acadia Winter Weather

Acadia National Park’s winters are cold, which helps the allure of the island for snow seekers. Proper layers are required to enjoy the bounty of carriage roads and coastline walks.

You can expect anywhere from six to twelve inches of snow a month. Since temperatures rarely rise above freezing, even at daytime highs, that snow sticks around through spring. Of course, you can’t bank on having snow either.

Nor’easters pummel the region from fall through spring occasionally, but those come with plenty of advance warning.

Acadia in Winter Weather Resources

We’ve gathered the best weather resources to help you check out the conditions before you go to Acadia’s winter wonderland.

• Acadia Alerts from NPS
• Acadia National Park Weather Website
• New England 511 Road Conditions
• Bar Harbor National Weather Service
• Cadillac Mountain Forecast
• Winter Trail Grooming Report
• Snow Depth Map

It would take a beast of a storm to close down the entire park, but as we saw in December 2023, sometimes it’s for the safety of all guests to close down while a storm passes or so the trails can be groomed.

What to Pack for Acadia in Winter

Acadia’s landscape rises from sea level to 1,530 feet at the top of Cadillac Mountain. Even if it’s raining in Bar Harbor, expect snow, ice, or a mixture of both on the trails as you ascend.

• Crampons: You’ll need these to grip the snowy and icy trails as you explore.
• Snow Goggles: Bring these to prevent the bright landscape from damaging your eyes.
• Stargazing Flashlight: This red-tinted flashlight allows you to see without creating light pollution.
• Waterproof Socks: Keep your feet dry, especially for shoreline walks, with waterproof socks.
• Hiking Boot Gaiters: Keep the snow and water from getting into your hiking boots with waterproof gaiters.
• Trekking Poles: You’ll thank me for this one.

Acadia National Park Map for Winter

We want to set the record straight about what roads are open and closed on Mount Desert Island, home of Acadia National Park, in winter. Arguably the best section of Park Loop Road remains open in the colder months, barring a winter storm. It’s more often referred to as Ocean Drive.

The first thing to know about Mount Desert Island roads in winter is that there’s a difference between Acadia National Park roads and the local roads or state highways. Again, barring bad weather, the state roads are open, which can take you to Southwest Harbor, Bass Harbor and Northeast Harbor.

Mount Desert Island in Winter

From Bar Harbor, you’ll take Schoodic Head Road to the Sand Beach entrance, where Park Loop Road’s winter access begins.

Sand Beach Entrance

You’ll travel about two miles on the coastline, with options to stop at Sand Beach and Thunder Hole. Park Loop Road’s winter access ends at Otter Cliff Road, where you’ll turn and follow around until you reach Route 3, which takes you back to Bar Harbor. This is a one-way road, and you must complete the entire loop.

Jordan Pond Entrance

The other access point is on the way to Jordan Pond. From Bar Harbor, you’ll drive around the central section of the park on state highways before taking Peabody Road to wrap around the southern edge of the island. Then, you meet up again with Park Loop Road. This is a two-way road, with Jordan Pond being the turnaround point.

Schoodic Peninsula in Winter

Over on the “Quiet Side,” the six-mile Schoodic Loop Road stays open all winter, with an epic view of the water from Schoodic Point. While you’re there, check out the Schoodic Institute for programs and activities in every season.

Getting Around Acadia in Winter

Having your own vehicle is ideal since the Island Explorer shuttle system stops running in the fall. An all-wheel drive or four-wheel drive vehicle would be ideal, but roads are plowed and cleared each day.

You’re allowed to walk as far as your legs can carry you, but consider other ways to get around.

Snowmobiles

Now, one of the best parts about the bulk of Park Loop Road being closed to automobiles in winter is that snowmobiles are allowed on the full 27-mile route.

One important note – no snowmobile rentals are available in the park or Bar Harbor. Either bring your own or touch base with the Maine Snowmobile Association to find a rental on your way to the park.

Park rangers tell us the best spot to start your snowmobile adventure is at the Hulls Cove Visitor Center parking lot.

Bar Harbor – Winter Harbor Ferry

The Bar Harbor to Winter Harbor (Schoodic Peninsula) ferry runs daily with four routes from 9:00 am to 3:30 pm departing Bar Harbor. The last Winter Harbor ferry leaves at 4:30 p.m. Tickets run about $20.

• Departs/Arrives Bar Harbor from the Bar Harbor Inn Pier at 1 Newport Drive.
• Departs/Arrives in Winter Harbor at Schoodic Marine Center, 88 Sargent Street.

Arrive 45 minutes before your scheduled trip, and you’ll have to find parking on your own in Bar Harbor (not a problem in winter).

Cadillac Mountain Winter Summit

Cadillac Mountain in Acadia National Park commands attention any time of the year – and who needs roads, right?

Despite the cold, winter brings one thing those summer tourists can’t get at the top of Cadillac Mountain – all winter long, the first rays of each day shine first at Cadillac’s summit.

Winter reservations for the sunrise aren’t required, but that’s mainly because the road to the summit is closed. If you want to see the famed view 1,530 feet up, get ready for a seven-mile hike roundtrip.

The sunset isn’t so bad, either.

With several hiking routes to choose from, expect low crowds and challenging terrain. The easiest option takes you right up the road that vehicles use the rest of the year. We recommend you plot your course with a map of Acadia National Park.

Why Is It Called Cadillac Mountain? Because “Antoine de la Mothe Cadillac Mountain” would have been a mouthful. While it was first named Green Mountain, the name was changed in 1918 to honor the French explorer with the long name above. Cadillac also founded Michigan, which is why the city of Cadillac and the auto company used that signature name.

Winter Activities at Acadia

Acadia in winter is ideal for cross-country skiing, snow hikes, and snowshoeing. Even dogs are welcome on the 45 miles of carriage roads. Extreme activities include ice climbing and climbing Cadillac Mountain.

What is a Carriage Road?: The carriage road system was designed by John D. Rockefeller Junior. The idea was to create a road network that would never be impacted by vehicle traffic. The carriage roads were designed to blend in with the landscape and offer a unique scenic view through all seasons.

Skiing/Snowshoeing Acadia

First, check with Friends of Acadia on Facebook to see what the trail conditions are on the day you plan to visit. More information about trails, rules, and updates can be found at the Ski Acadia website or by using #skiacadia.

Second, the park also allows cross-country skiing on Park Loop Road. Remember, you’ll be sharing that road with snowmobiles, too. They should yield for you but never assume.

Unlike snowmobiles, Bar Harbor offers plenty of rental gear to snowshoe, ski, or trek through Acadia National Park’s carriage roads in winter.

Our recommended carriage road routes are:

• Beginner, West side of Eagle Lake: At less than seven miles, you’ll take an easy path along the lake or ON the lake if it’s frozen over. Also, consider the Amphitheater Loop, which is just five miles away with forest and ocean views. For first-timers, the Paradise Hill loop keeps you closer to Bar Harbor.
• Moderate, Aunt Betty Loop: Six splendid miles with some incline challenges offer more water/ice features and wildlife possibilities than most trail sections.
• Expert, Around the Mountain: Get ready for a day of skiing challenging hills and past some of the most remote features of Acadia in winter. With more than 12 miles to tackle, you’ll need stamina and winter skills.

What Would Carriage Roads Close? It’s important to know the trail status because the carriage roads can close due to bad weather, damage after a storm, or when allowing travel on the roads could lead to trail damage. This is one reason why the carriage roads close in March through April during “Mud Season.”

Finally, the photos below from Acadia NPS give you an idea of what to expect on the carriage roads in winter.

Acadia Winter Hikes

Beyond walking or snowshoeing the carriage roads, all the hiking trails you can reach are up for grabs.

Keep in mind that the strenuous trails of summer because that much more foreboding in winter, especially places like Beehive and Precipice that require climbing ladders and using rungs.

Coastal Trails

• Great Head Trail: This is a moderate 1.7-mile loop trail that offers stunning views of the ocean and Sand Beach. It’s a great option for beginners and experienced hikers alike.
• Ocean Path: This easy 4-mile round-trip trail takes you past Thunder Hole and Otter Cliff, offering beautiful views of the coastline. Be sure to check the conditions before you go, as the trail can be icy in the winter.
• Ship Harbor Trail: This easy 1.3-mile trail is a great option for a short hike. It winds through the woods and offers views of the ocean and Somes Sound.

Tap on the photo below to check out our favorite hikes in Acadia National Park.

Ice Climbing

If hanging off the edge of a cliff wielding an ice ax sounds like fun, you’re going to love what awaits at Acadia. Places like Otter Cliffs, The Precipice, and South Bubble continue to offer excellent climbing options even in the depths of winter.

Outfitters like Acadia Mountain Guides are ready to help you plan the experience based on your skill level.

Ice Fishing

Most of the ponds and lakes freeze over in Acadia National Park, offering a great chance for some ice fishing. The season runs from January through March, and you’ll need a Maine fishing license.

For a more turnkey experience, book a tour with places like Acadia Fly Fishing. They set up everything – you show up and catch fish.

Scenic Drives

As discussed above, a great scenic section of Acadia National Park stays open in the winter. However, more adventures await.

Schoodic Peninsula National Scenic Byway

On the way to the Schoodic Peninsula, you’ll drive the Schoodic National Scenic Byway. It stretches for 35 miles, including the loop portion in Acadia National Park.

Check the tide schedules for Tidal Falls Preserve, where you can see the “reversing falls,” one of only eight found throughout Maine’s coastline.

“SOMETIMES, BETTER IS DEAD”: If you know what book/movie that is from, you’ll love this! Go two miles off Route 1 on Point Road in Hancock. The house used in Stephen King’s Pet Sematary movie is located at 303 Point Road. It is privately owned, but there’s a small pull-out to look at the house if you want to snap a photo.

Sargeant Drive on Somes Sound

Over by Northwest Harbor, you’ll find my favorite scenic section in winter. Take Sargeant Drive, which straddles the eastern edge of Somes Sound. The two-lane road becomes an explosion of winter wowza. On one side, the water ripples to the rim of the rocks lining the road.

On the other side, ice formations dangle, drip, and delight on sheer cliffs. In between? Snow-heavy trees line the way. Tuck this one away for stunning fall drives, spring blooms, or summer “top down” cruises.

Seawall in Acadia

One of the first roads to feel the impact of an incoming storm is Seawall Road near Southwest Harbor. This five-mile stretch of road takes you right to the edge of the tide. Bundle up at night to soak in the night skies from this vantage point.

As we mentioned earlier, the Ship Harbor Trail is one of the best winter hikes in Acadia, and it’s right off this road.

Bass Harbor Sunset

During summer, you’ll struggle to find a parking spot or even get a moment of peace with the groups that crowd Bass Harbor Lighthouse at sunset. Winter in Acadia brings the best opportunity to savor Bass Harbor’s sunset in all its glory.

A small parking area awaits with a short walk through woods to the coastline. One important note – the best spots come with precarious steps. You’ll stand (or sit) on tiers and steps of the rugged coastline. My nerves took over when I couldn’t wear crampons on the slick rock but needed them for the snow and ice – all within inches of each other.

Winter Sunrise and Sunset Times in Acadia

Now that we’re all excited to visit Acadia in the winter, I’m offering another dose of reality. Considering how far north Acadia National Park is, the sun will set much earlier than you might expect – as early as 3:53 pm.

Pet Rules at Acadia in Winter

Dogs on a six-foot leash love exploring the trails and carriage roads. Acadia offers one of the most dog-friendly national park experiences in the nation.

If you are bringing a pet, be responsible. Pick up after them and carry the waste with you until you can properly dispose of it. Do not leave it bagged on the trail or toss it into the woods. Responsible pet owners and dogs can earn the title of B.A.R.K. Ranger. As a pet parent myself, I love that Acadia allows pets to enjoy the splendor on these roads.

A few pet rules to note:

• Leashed dogs are allowed on Sand Beach in the winter but not in the spring or summer (June 15 – September 8).
• Keep dogs off any ladder trail, like Precipice, Beehive, or Dorr Mountain. Here’s the full list of restrictions.
• Even though it’s winter, a full-body scan for ticks is necessary after a hike.

On a related note, the six-foot leash law is one reason dog sledding isn’t allowed in Acadia National Park.

Is Acadia REALLY Worth a Winter Visit?

Our mission at More Than Just Parks is to share the love of public lands but also not oversell or diminish any aspect of a park. The only motivation is to help YOU plan a trip and start conversations.

Let’s go through the pros and cons of visiting Acadia in winter.

Pros of Acadia in Winter

1. Smaller Crowds: The busy summer months bring in around 760,000 people, with peak visitation in July or August. Looking back at the past five years of visitation data, December – March saw anywhere from 10,000 – 20,000 each *month. That means the crowds are 89%-98% less.
2. A Winter Dream: Acadia offers the fun of snow, like you’d get at Yosemite, but without accumulations by the foot. Then, add in the stunning ocean scenery, from Sand Beach to ragged shores with crashing waves. At the same time – dress for the cold. As they say in Maine, “There’s no bad weather, just bad clothing.”
3. Variety: Instead of trails being EITHER skiing or hiking, you get carriage roads and hiking trails. If the park roads are closed, take the state roads and explore the coastal towns like Tremont and Southwest Harbor.

Cons of Winter in Acadia National Park

1. No Camping: While camping in bitter cold isn’t my thing, so many people in my group of friends are bummed you can’t camp at Acadia anymore. Without a nearby option, you have to drive at least an hour or two to find a campsite.
2. Limited Accommodations: Our favorite place to stay in Bar Harbor isn’t open during the off-season. You’ll find that a handful of great options are open, but prepare for more hunting and pecking to find the right spot.
3. Unpredictable Weather: This con goes for many parks, not just Acadia. If a nor’easter is approaching, the roads and trails could be pre-emptively closed, then closed during the storm, and then closed for days afterward to clean up. (Maybe offer to volunteer!)

I purposely left off the closure of roads to vehicles because the park’s footprint isn’t minimized that much – it’s just how you choose to get around. Snowmobiling is a game changer once you learn how to use the ride.

With the traffic in the summer, you will likely cover more ground on skis anyway.

FEBRUARY WINTER BREAK: Visiting Acadia in February should be on your short list of things to do during the winter break week for New England schools.

WATCH: The Acadia Film in 4K

This film is the culmination of several weeks spent exploring Acadia National Park during peak fall color.

It is dedicated to George Dorr, who was instrumental in saving the land and founding the park. Journey with us as we explore this magnificent coastal wonderland in stunning fall color.

We’d sure appreciate it if you’d subscribe to our YouTube Channel or share it with your friends if you enjoyed the film.

Planning an Acadia Trip? We Can Help

Our team explored Acadia in every season and we’re not playing favorites. This guidance should get you started.

Quick Resources: Things to Do / Guide / Hikes / Map / Guidebook / Where to Stay / Facts

Pin Acadia in Winter

Helpful Related Links

Best National Parks in Maine: 6 EPIC Maine National Parks Worth Visiting

Top National Parks Next Door in New Hampshire: These EPIC New Hampshire National Parks Are Worth Visiting

Precipice vs Angels Landing: An Honest Guide to Angels Landing in Zion National Park

Precipice vs. Half Dome: An Honest Guide to Half Dome in Yosemite National Park

National Parks Rankings: ALL 63 US National Parks Ranked By Experts

Most Visited National Parks: Top 10 Most Visited National Parks

Least Visited National Parks: Top 10 Least Visited National Parks

National Parks Road Trips: 10 Best National Park Road Trips

National Monuments Ranked: ALL 128 US National Monuments Ranked (Best to Worst)

Best Winter Parks: 15 Stunning National Parks in Winter Worth Visiting (+ Photos)

The post AWESOME Guide to Acadia in Winter (YES! IT’S OPEN!) appeared first on More Than Just Parks | National Parks Guides.

Winter in Death Valley

The best season to visit Death Valley National Park is Winter. Winter brings cooler, more manageable temperatures to Death Valley, and even some clouds! While December and January can be a bit rainy, February and March are a dream.

This makes winter our favorite season to visit Death Valley.

• December weather in Death Valley is usually a bit chilly (the coldest month of the year for the park) and can be quite rainy, even to the point of flooding!
• January weather in Death Valley is a bit cool with some rain showers that move in and out quickly.
• February weather in Death Valley is wonderful with warmer (but not hot) temperatures and abundant sunshine (with some partly cloudy days) making it one of the best months to visit the park.
• March weather in Death Valley is great with warm (even hot by the end of the month) temperatures and lots of sun.

RELATED: Comprehensive Death Valley National Park Guide

Winter Monthly Temperatures in Death Valley

RELATED: 10+ (FASCINATING) Death Valley National Park Facts You Probably Didn’t Know

Winter Activities in Death Valley

Winter is a great season for all sorts of activities in Death Valley National Park as cooler temperatures allow for extended time outdoors with significantly reduced risk of succumbing to the elements. Popular winter activities in Death Valley include:

• Snowshoe up to Telescope Peak. It’s pretty cool to be able to say you went snowshoeing in Death Valley!
• Explore the sand dunes like Eureka Dunes, Mesquite Dunes, Ibex Dunes without melting
• See the mesmerizing reflections from water pools on the valley floor in Furnace Creek. 
• Cool off in Lake Manly, a once massive lake that has now completely dried up and can only be experienced occasionally in Winter after heavy rains. 
• Catch a sunrise at Zabriskie Point (great anytime of year)

RELATED: 16 STUNNING Things to Do in Death Valley National Park 2021

About Death Valley

Situated on California’s southeastern border with Nevada, Death Valley National Park spans over 5,000 square miles of otherworldly vistas. The largest national park in the continental United States, Death Valley is a park for superlatives.

Death Valley is the hottest place on earth, the lowest place in North America, and the driest place in the United States. Death Valley is also the largest National Park outside of Alaska.

Death Valley Map

Death Valley Video

In the remote far reaches of the Mojave Desert lies the largest national park in the continental United States. Hidden here in the hottest place on earth is another world full of diverse life and colorful landscapes.

Join us as we take life to the extreme and explore Death Valley. Filmed primarily in 8K.​

Details About Death Valley National Park

• Location: Furnace Creek, California
• Established: October 31, 1994
• Size: 3.37 million acres
• Native Land: Timbisha Shoshone
• Visitors: 1,678,660 (2018)

RELATED: 10+ (FASCINATING) Death Valley National Park Facts You Probably Didn’t Know

The post Should You Visit DEATH VALLEY in WINTER? (Helpful Guide + Video) appeared first on More Than Just Parks | National Parks Guides.

Article Overview: Best National Parks to Visit in December

Looking for a December trip to a fantastic national park but don’t know where to start? I’ve got you covered! December can be a great time to visit certain national parks for a variety of reasons.

For starters, national parks in December tend to be far less crowded, meaning you get more of the park to yourself!

The list of great national parks to visit in December is a bit shorter than other months due to winter closures, but you’ve still got some great options. In this December national parks guide guide we’ll cover the best national parks to visit, plus a couple you’ll want to avoid.

Ready to dive in? Let’s get started!

Best National Parks to Visit by Month Series

We started this series of best national parks to visit by month to give folks the best idea of how to time their national park trips. Every national park is mentioned at least once in this series so that you know when to visit each and every park (no park is left behind!). We even cover nearby national monuments and forests to consider as well.

Additionally, we cover the national parks you’ll want to avoid each month for a variety of reasons, including temperature, crowd sizes, closures, insects, and more.

Something to note is that some national parks are mentioned multiple times while others are only mentioned once.

If you’re interested in other times of the year as well, be sure to check out our Best National Parks by Season Guide.

Why Trust Us About the National Parks in December

You should probably know that we didn’t just make this list of the best national parks to visit in December up out of thin air. We’ve spent our entire adult lives exploring and filming America’s national parks and public lands.

We’ve worked with the National Park Service, the Department of Interior, the USDA, and the U.S. Forest Service for years, creating films on important places and issues.

Our work has been featured in leading publications all over the world, and even some people outside of our immediate family call us experts on national parks.

The Parks Brothers

We’re Jim Pattiz and Will Pattiz, collectively known as the Pattiz Brothers (and sometimes the Parks Brothers), and we absolutely LOVE the national parks.

Our goal here at More Than Just Parks is to share the beauty of America’s national parks and public lands through stunning short films in an effort to get Americans and the world to see the true value of land conservation.

Best National Parks in December

Top 15 Best National Parks to Visit in December

15. Haleakala National Park

• Location: Hawaii
• Weather: The average high is 62°F (17° C) while the average low is 45°F (7° C) with 8 days of precipitation.
• Sunrise & Sunset Times: Average sunrise is 6:54am and sunset is 5:47pm.
• Crowds: Low
• Our Favorite Resources: Guide / Things to Do / Guidebook / Map / Where to Stay / Video
• Holidays: Open Christmas

About Haleakala National Park in December

Let’s start off our list of best national parks in December with a place that escapes traditional frigid winter temperatures.

In the remote reaches of the island of Maui in the heart of the Pacific Ocean, you will find this tropical paradise.

Here you can journey to the house of the sun and discover ancient volcanoes steeped in legend, rugged mountains, dense rain forests, hidden beaches, and the last wild home to spectacular wildlife.

The park is a feast for the eyes from the coast to the summit and is bound to leave you breathless (quite literally at the summit area). You will need a reservation to see the sunrise at the summit.

Best Things to Do at this National Park in December

14. Grand Canyon National Park

• Location: Arizona
• Weather: The average high is 58°F (14° C) while the average low is 39 °F (4° C) with 3 days of precipitation.
• Sunrise & Sunset Times: Average sunrise is 7:32am and sunset is 5:16pm.
• Crowds: Low
• Our Favorite Resources: Map / Guidebook / Things to Do / Best Views / Closest Cities / South Rim / Where to Stay / Winter / Facts / North Rim (Closed in December)
• Holidays: Open Christmas

Visiting the Grand Canyon in December

If you’ve dreamed of snowy canyon walls, cloud inversions, and bundling up at overlooks, then December could be your perfect time of year to visit the Grand Canyon. That’s the South Rim of the Grand Canyon. The North Rim roads are closed effective December 1.

Average highs are in the mid-50s (F), and average lows are in the high 30s. While January and February have a higher likelihood of seeing snow, it’s not that unusual to see snow at the Grand Canyon in December.

December brings quiet and solitude to the Grand Canyon. If you’ve been before in the summer, visiting the 2nd most visited national park in the country during winter may be a bit shocking.

Overlooks are uncrowded, and there’s actually parking available at the Grand Canyon in December.

For more information, check out: Visiting the Grand Canyon in December

Best Things to Do at the Grand Canyon in December

Things To Do: Mather Point, Bright Angel Trail, Cape Royal, Desert View Watchtower

13. Virgin Islands National Park

• Location: US Virgin Islands (More than 1,100 miles southwest of Miami)
• Weather: The average high is 80°F (27° C) while the average low is 69°F (21° C) with 11 days of precipitation.
• Sunrise & Sunset Times: Average sunrise is 6:43am and sunset is 5:45pm.
• Crowds: Low
• Our Favorite Resources: Guide | Things to Do | Map | Guidebook | Video
• Holidays: Open Christmas, but Visitor’s Center is closed

Visiting Virgin Islands National Park in December

Another one of the best national parks in December to escape winter is located deep into the Caribbean on the island of St. John in the US Virgin Islands. Virgin Islands National Park features highs in the 80s during December with balmy lows in the 60s.

If palm trees, white sands, turquoise ocean, and warm water sound like your vibe this December, then pop on over to this most tropical of all the national parks.

The only downside is that December typically sees a decent amount of rain, with 11 days being the average. Even still, the rain doesn’t last too long.

Best Things to Do at Virgin Islands National Park in December

Things To Do: Reef Bay Trail, Maho Bay, Trunk Bay

12. Bryce Canyon National Park

• Location: Utah
• Weather: The average high is 36°F (2° C) while the average low is 12°F (-11° C) with 3 days of precipitation.
• Sunrise & Sunset Times: Average sunrise is 7:36am and sunset is 5:11pm.
• Crowds: Low
• Our Favorite Resources: Map | Guidebook | Road Trip | Where to Stay | Facts
• Holidays: Open Christmas, but Visitor’s Center is closed.

Visiting Bryce Canyon National Park in December

I know a lot of folks who would rank Bryce Canyon among the very best national parks in December.

For many a national park aficionado, seeing the gigantic hoodoos of Bryce Canyon covered in snow is bucket list material. There’s just something about the contrasts of the white against the deep orange-red rock that makes for a magical experience.

I highly recommend waking up early to catch the sunrise at Inspiration Point if you’re at the park for the best views of the hoodoos.

While lots of folks think of Utah and imagine the heat, elevations in Bryce Canyon reach 9,100 feet which makes it the national park in which you’re most likely to see snow in Utah during December.

Best Things to Do at Bryce Canyon in December

Things To Do: Wall Street Trail, Navajo Loop Trail, Inspiration Point

11. Zion National Park

• Location: Utah
• Weather: The average high is 48°F (9° C) while the average low is 24°F (-4° C) with 4 days of precipitation.
• Sunrise & Sunset Times: Average sunrise is 7:39am and sunset is 5:16pm.
• Crowds: Low
• My Favorite Resources: Guide | Things to Do | Hikes | Map | Guidebook | Where to Stay | Road Trip
• Holidays: Open Christmas

Visiting Zion National Park in December

Love Zion but hate the crowds? Turns out there’s an easy solution. Visit Zion in December!

During December, the crowds fade away while the park remains every bit as beautiful. Lucky visitors might even have the opportunity to see the park with a fresh blanket of white!

Zion Crowds in December: As one of the top 3 most visited parks, you might wonder what Zion crowds are REALLY like in December. For 2022, nearly 177,000 people visited in December. Compare that to the more than half a million that visited in May (539,172), June (569,975), and July (548,636). December visitation is almost 70% lower compared to peak season.

All of the main national park roads remain open in the winter. However, hiking the narrows will likely be too frigid for most of the winter months, and Angels Landing is probably not the best idea in the snow. If you do plan to hike Angels Landing, you will now need a permit. Yes, even in December.

Best Things to Do at Zion in December

Things To Do: The Narrows, Angels Landing, Lava Point, Big Bend

Top 10 National Parks in December

10. Redwood National Park

• Location: California
• Weather: The average high is 55°F (13° C) while the average low is 42°F (6° C) with 14 days of precipitation.
• Sunrise & Sunset Times: Average sunrise is 7:35am and sunset is 4:48pm.
• Crowds: Low
• Our Favorite Resources: Things to Do / Guide / Map / Guidebook / Where to Stay / Video / Photos
• Holidays: Open Christmas, but the Visitor’s Center is closed.

Visiting Redwood National Park in December

Redwood is one of my all-time favorite national parks, and while December is a bit chillier than other months, it’s still much warmer here than most parks.

Temperatures in Redwood National Park almost never dip below freezing, with an average low of 42 and highs of 55.

The further south in the park you go, the warmer it will be, with the Humboldt Redwoods (technically not part of the system but still amazing) being much warmer than the Jedediah Smith Redwoods.

Best Things to Do at Redwood National Park in December

Things To Do: Stout Grove, Lady Bird Johnson Grove, Avenue of the Giants

9. Yosemite National Park

• Location: California
• Weather: The average high is 48°F (9° C) while the average low is 27° (-4° C) with 7 days of precipitation.
• Sunrise & Sunset Times: Average sunrise is 7:07am and sunset is 4:40pm.
• Crowds: Low
• My Favorite Resources: Map / Guidebook / Facts / Where to Stay / Things to Do
• Holidays: Open Christmas

Visiting Yosemite National Park in December

John Muir’s “Grandest Temple of them all” is every bit as grand during the colder months of the year. Yosemite National Park in December can only be described as magical.

Well, not only. The roads can get pretty nasty during this time of year. The Hetch Hetchy entrance is open only during daylight hours when road conditions allow it.

In fact, I recall entering the park during a winter storm and being told by the ranger at the entrance that there had already been 7 accidents on the icy road into the valley in the past 2 hours and that most had yet to be reached by the tow truck.

While that case is fairly rare, the note of caution is worth keeping in mind. For those who do make it into the park after a fresh coat, the scene is otherworldly. Clouds glide through the snow-covered valley as the sun hits the ice crystals making for dazzling displays of outdoor majesty.

Note that many national park roads, including Glacier Point and Tioga Pass, close seasonally in December, making several of the top attractions inaccessible by car.

Best Things to Do at Yosemite in December

Things To Do: Glacier Point, Tunnel View, Yosemite Falls

8. Crater Lake National Park

• Location: Oregon
• Weather: The average high is 35°F (2° C) while the average low is 20°F (-7° C) with 16 days of precipitation.
• Sunrise & Sunset Times: Average sunrise is 7:33am and sunset is 4:45pm.
• Crowds: Low
• Our Favorite Resources: Facts
• Holidays: Open Christmas

Visiting Crater Lake National Park in December

The deepest lake in North America is one of the most beautiful places to visit in America at any time of year. December adds an extra layer of magic to Crater Lake National Park.

While West Rim Drive, the North Entrrance and East Rim Drive close to vehicle traffic during the winter at Crater Lake, all sorts of new recreational opportunities fill the void. Cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and fat biking are a few of the most popular activities during winter in this national park. You can enter through the North Entrance via snowmobile.

December is also a great time to catch the northern lights at Crater Lake, which is truly spectacular.

The downside is that there is a lot of precipitation this time of year in the form of snow meaning lots of grey skies.

Best Things to Do at Crater Lake in December

Things To Do: Rim Drive, Wizard Island Ferry, Watchman Peak

7. Grand Teton National Park

• Location: Wyoming
• Weather: The average high is 25°F (-4° C) while the average low is 3°F (-16° C) with 12 days of precipitation.
• Sunrise & Sunset Times: Average sunrise is 7:50am and sunset is 4:46pm.
• Crowds: Low
• My Favorite Resources: Guide / Maps / Guidebook / Hikes / Things to Do / Where to Stay / Video / Facts
• Holidays: Open Christmas

Visiting Grand Teton National Park in December

Grand Teton is one of those national parks that has seen a major influx in visitors over the past few years (haven’t they all!). In 2022 Grand Teton was the 12th most visited national park in the US, seeing more than 2.8 million guests.

If that sounds daunting to you, fear not. Most of the folks visiting Grand Teton do so in months other than December. One of the reasons for this is the temperatures can be somewhat brutal, with December highs in the 20s and lows in the single digits.

However, the scenery is spectacular, and you’ll have it practically to yourself (compared to summer anyway). Popular activities during winter in Grand Teton National Park include cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and wildlife viewing.

Best Things to Do at Grand Teton National Park in December

Things To Do: Bradley & Taggart Lakes Trail, Wildlife Viewing, Schwabacher Landing

6. Rocky Mountain National Park

• Location: Colorado
• Weather: The average high is 25°F (-4° C) while the average low is 12°F (-11° C) with 13 days of precipitation.
• Sunrise & Sunset Times: Average sunrise is 7:19am and sunset is 4:37pm.
• Crowds: Low
• Our Favorite Resources: Guide / Map / Guidebook / Hikes / Things to Do / Where to Stay / Video
• Holidays: Open Christmas

Visiting Rocky Mountain National Park in December

Rocky Mountain is one of the growing number of national parks that have instituted a necessary albeit somewhat loathsome permit & timed entry system. If you’re one of the many who find this an effective deterrent to visiting the park, we’ve got great news.

During December, the timed entry system at Rocky Mountain is not in effect, meaning you can visit anytime without prior reservations.

While the famed Trail Ridge Road (one of the best national parks road trip destinations) is closed in December, the Bear Lake Road remains open, making for some incredible recreational opportunities.

Best Things to Do at this National Park in December

Things To Do: Elk Viewing | Dream, Nymph, Emerald Lakes Trail | Trail Ridge Road

Top 5 Best December National Parks

5. Mount Rainier National Park

• Location: Washington
• Weather: The average high is 22°F (-6° C) while the average low is 11°F (-12° C) with 15 days of precipitation.
• Sunrise & Sunset Times: Average sunrise is 7:46am and sunset is 4:19pm.
• Crowds: Low
• My Favorite Resources: Map / Guidebook / Hikes / Things to Do / Paradise / Facts / Where to Stay
• Holidays: Open Christmas

Visiting Mount Rainier National Park in December

I know what you’re thinking. “How can the place with the best displays of wildflowers on the planet also be the one of the best national parks to visit in December?”

Let’s start with the simple fact that Mount Rainier is one of the places that sees the most snow in the contiguous US every year.

Add in that Mount Rainier is among the tallest in the entire Cascade range, the most heavily glaciated peak in the contiguous US, and home to some of the best night sky viewing in the Pacific Northwest.

Here’s the kicker. While most of the most popular national parks close off their top attractions in the winter due to the amount of snowfall, the National Park Service plows the road up to Paradise year-round.

Winter recreational opportunities abound here with incredible snowshoe trails, skiing, and sledding opportunities. The air is crisp, and the views are absolutely breathtaking.

Best Things to Do at this National Park in December

Things To Do: Skyline Trail, Paradise, Snowshoeing

4. Arches National Park

• Location: Utah
• Weather: The average high is 41°F (5° C) while the average low is 20°F (-7° C) with 3 days of precipitation.
• Sunrise & Sunset Times: Average sunrise is 7:29am and sunset is 4:58pm.
• Crowds: Low
• Resources: Things to Do / Map / Guidebook / Where to Stay / Facts
• Holidays: Open Christmas, but the Visitor’s Center is closed.

Visiting Arches National Park in December

Everyone loves the red rock in the snow, and there are few better places to see this magic than Arches National Park. Don’t kid yourself; it’s going to be cold visiting Arches in December, with average highs in the low 40s and average lows hovering around 20.

But, if you can bundle up, you might just get lucky with a little dusting of the white stuff. December only sees 3 days of precipitation on average, but pretty much all of it is snow.

Best Things to Do at this National Park in December

Things To Do: Delicate Arch, Landscape Arch, Devils Garden, Tower Arch

3. Saguaro National Park

• Location: Arizona
• Weather: The average high is 65°F (° C) while the average low is 39°F (° C) with 3 days of precipitation.
• Sunrise & Sunset Times: Average sunrise is 7:19am and sunset is 5:21pm.
• Crowds: Low
• Our Favorite Resources: Guide / Hikes / Things to Do / Map / Guidebook / Where to Stay / Video
• Holidays: Open Christmas, but the Visitor Centers will be closed.

Visiting Saguaro National Park in December

If there are two things that southern Arizona has in abundance, it’s sunshine and cacti, none more famous than the Saguaro, whose namesake park (Saguaro National Park) is an excellent national park to escape to in December.

Sunsets here are worth the trip alone, seemingly lasting hours and filling up the sky with magnificent yellow, orange, and deep purple hues.

In December, average high temperatures range in the mid-60s, and sunshine is no stranger!

Best Things to Do at Saguaro National Park in December

Things To Do: Wassen Peak Trail, Desert Ecology Nature Trail, Signal Hill Petroglyphs

2. Death Valley National Park

• Location: California
• Weather: The average high is 65°F (18° C) while the average low is 39°F (4° C) with 0 days of precipitation.
• Sunrise & Sunset Times: Average sunrise is 6:53am and sunset is 4:34pm.
• Crowds: Low
• Our Favorite Resources: Guide / Map / Guidebook / Things to Do / Facts / Camping / Where to Stay / Video
• Holidays: The park and Visitor Centers are open on Christmas.

Visiting Death Valley National Park in December

Choosing between the top two best national parks to visit in December was a really difficult task for us and could have gone either way, but we decided to drop Death Valley at the number two spot this year.

Situated in the Mojave Desert, Death Valley National Park is the hottest place on earth in Summer, soaring to temperatures in the 130s! But winter in Death Valley is a different story altogether.

Average December high temperatures are in the mid-60s in Death Valley National Park, which makes for great adventure weather. Despite the morbid name, this park has an unbelievable amount of things to see and do as the largest national park in the contiguous United States.

Death Valley is the one national park on this list with 0 days of precipitation forecasted, meaning no rain and lots of sunshine!

Best Things to Do at this National Park in December

Things To Do: Badwater Basin, Zabriskie Point, Eureka Dunes, Artists Palette

1. Sequoia National Park

• Location: California
• Weather: The average high is 25° (-4° C) while the average low is 4° (-15° C) with 10 days of precipitation.
• Sunrise & Sunset Times: Average sunrise is 7:00am and sunset is 4:40pm.
• Crowds: Low
• My Favorite Resources: Map / Guidebook / Things to Do / Facts / Where to Stay / General Sherman Tree
• Holidays: The park and Visitor Centers are open Christmas.

Visiting Sequoia National Park in December

There is no place in the world like Sequoia National Park in December. The sound of the snow softly falling through enormous tree canopies of the sequoia forest is truly enchanting.

The contrasts of bright whites against the deep reds and dark greens of the sequoia trees make for great photo opportunities and breathtaking scenery.

The world’s largest tree can still easily be accessed during the winter months as well as a plethora of stunning hiking trails. I highly recommend the Congress Trail as the top trail in the national park during winter.

If the scenery isn’t enough for you, the park is home to some lovely lodges complete with dining facilities and fireplaces to serve as a great backdrop for the park.

Best Things to Do at this National Park in December

Things To Do: Big Trees Trail, Congress Trail, Moro Rock

For more things to do in Sequoia, check out: 15 Epic Things to Do in Sequoia National Park

National Parks to Avoid in December

Not all national parks are a winter wonderland in December or even a great park to escape the winter. There are two national parks I recommend you avoid in December.

Avoid Lassen Volcanic National Park in December, as the park is all but completely closed. Only Manzanita Lake (which is beautiful) is accessible, and even it is typically iced over.

Another one to avoid in December is Glacier National Park, as most of the park is totally inaccessible. Those who do make it to Glacier in December will find the open areas largely unoccupied.

Map of Best National Parks in December

List of Best National Parks in December

1. Sequoia National Park
2. Death Valley National Park
3. Saguaro National Park
4. Arches National Park
5. Mount Rainier National Park
6. Rocky Mountain National Park
7. Grand Teton National Park
8. Crater Lake National Park
9. Yosemite National Park
10. Redwood National Park
11. Zion National Park
12. Bryce Canyon National Park
13. Virgin Islands National Park
14. Grand Canyon National Park
15. Haleakala National Park

Pin National Parks in December

Helpful Related Articles

Winter National Parks: 15 Stunning National Parks to Visit in Winter

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National Parks Rankings: ALL 63 US National Parks Ranked By Experts

Most Visited National Parks: Top 10 Most Visited National Parks

Least Visited National Parks: Top 10 Least Visited National Parks

National Parks Road Trips: 10 Best National Park Road Trips

The post 15 Best National Parks to Visit in December (+2 to Avoid!) appeared first on More Than Just Parks | National Parks Guides.

Winter in the Badlands often sees snow blanket the landscape while temperatures range from the low teens to the high 30’s. The park sees very little visitation in the winter months and some of the more remote parts are inaccessible. Winds in the Northern Great Plains can reach gusts of more than 60 miles per hour with very little to stop them. If you decide to venture to the park in the colder months keep this in mind and be sure to pack accordingly.

Winter Monthly Temperatures in Badlands

Things to See in Badlands

Winter Activities in Voyageurs

Winter in the Badlands is cold, harsh, and desolate. What life there is on the prairie seeks shelter from the elements wherever they can find it. the prairie dogs keep to their burrows and the birds have long since left for greener pastures down south. You’re likely to see snow-draped bison roaming the desolate prairie in search of food and shelter. Popular Winter activities in the Badlands include:

• Snowshoeing and hiking the park’s trails.
• Driving through the park’s main road and enjoying the scenic overlooks.
• Wildlife watching. In winter you’ll often spot bison roaming the snow-covered prairies of the badlands which makes for a great photo opportunity (from a safe distance!).
• Stargazing. If you’re bold enough to brave the often subzero temperatures at night the skies are quite a site to behold. If you’re lucky you might even catch the faint glow of the northern lights on the horizon.

Location | Badlands National Park, South Dakota

Interested in what Badlands is like during other times of the year? Check out our Badlands Seasons & Weather page to learn more about which season is best for your visit to the park. Our personal favorite is Fall but Spring & Summer are nice as well, and then there’s Winter which is pretty darn cold.

Badlands by Season

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This film is the culmination of several weeks spent filming in the rugged Badlands of South Dakota. A true monument to the American West, Badlands National Park and its vast landscapes beckon to be explored and looked upon in awe. Journey with us as we explore this magical place in stunning 8K.

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The post Badlands In Winter appeared first on More Than Just Parks | National Parks Guides.

Overview: Winter in Haleakala National Park

Winter in Haleakala is our favorite time to visit. Temperatures are warm and pleasant and the park’s roads are devoid of the traffic one might find in the summer months.

If you want to avoid the crowds and have no trouble finding campsites then winter is a great time to go, but be sure to pack accordingly.

Despite what Maui weather in Hawaii might be, the summit area looms 10,000 feet above and will have a much different weather forecast than Maui today and every day.

Below we list the generally stable temperatures of the Kīpahulu area of the park.

Winter Monthly Temperatures in Haleakala National Park

Again, winter in Haleakala has a much different iteration depending on where you’re visiting. The park has two sections – the Summit District and the Kīpahulu District.

You’ll find a more balanced weather pattern in the Kipahulu District. It covers part of east Maui and gets nearly 190 inches of rain each year. Daytime averages are in the 70 or 80s F and lows rarely get below 65° F.

At the Summit District, weather chaos reigns (and rains). On average, tempeatures at the summit are 30° cooler than sea level. Nights can be below freezing, and that means the sunrise forecast at Haleakala will require warm clothing – the exact opposite of what’s you’d expect to wear in Hawaii. ]

MORE ABOUT MAUI WEATHER: Here’s the zone forecast and latest weather conditions.

Winter Activities in Haleakalā National Park

Winter in Haleakalā National Park provides a full range of opportunities to explore the park. Some great winter activities include:

• Sunset at Haleakalā Summit (Get a reservation! They are required.)
• Exploring the Hosmer Grove
• Visiting the Pools of Oheo
• Driving the Road to Hanā
• Hiking into the Haleakalā crater via the Keonehe‘ehe‘e trail
• Enjoying the coast by the Kīpahulu Visitor Center

Haleakalā Crater | Haleakalā National Park, Hawaii

Our in-depth trail guide can help you navigate the strenuous trail of Haleakala Crater, but with some easier options. The otherworldly landscape shouldn’t be missed if you are experiuenced in high altitude hikes.

Haleakala National Park Film by More Than Just Parks

HALEAKALA 8K is the culmination of several weeks and multiple trips to the remote outer reaches of the island of Maui in the Central Pacific. Journey with us to the house of the sun and discover ancient volcanoes steeped in legend, rugged mountains, dense rainforests, hidden beaches, underwater worlds, and the last wild home to spectacular wildlife. This is Haleakalā. Filmed primarily in 8K.

The post Haleakala National Park and Maui in Winter appeared first on More Than Just Parks | National Parks Guides.

Article Overview: The Best National Park Gifts, Gifts for National Park Lovers

America’s National Parks are an incredible source of pride and inspiration for outdoor enthusiasts the world over. So it’s only fitting that there’s a lot of really amazing national parks-themed gear and gifts out there.

Of course, the only problem is that they’re scattered across different stores and retailers all over the internet, but fear not, that’s where we come in!

This comprehensive guide to the best national park gifts is chock-full of amazing gifts that I’m sure will bring a smile to the national parks lover in your family.

As someone who lives and breathes the national parks on a daily basis (and has no small collection of Smokey Bear and national park-themed items), I’m well-versed in the best national park gifts out there and am excited to share them with you – there are some really great companies making amazing stuff out there!

Before we dive in if you’re in a hurry or don’t know where to start try heading straight to our How To Pick The Right National Park Gift section of this page to take the guesswork out of it.

In this National Parks Gift Guide you’ll find:

• National Park Gifts for Her
• National Park Gifts for Him
• National Park Gifts for Kids
• The Best National Park Maps
• The Best National Park Books & Guides
• National Park Clothing and Accessories
• Unique National Park Gifts
• National Park Souvenirs
• National Parks decor and so much more!

So let’s get to these amazing national park gifts!

Top 5 National Park Gifts

1. PARKS by Keymaster Games & Fifty-Nine Parks

Is there any better time of year for board games and hot drinks? I received this national parks game as a gift last year and it’s quickly become my favorite board game – and I promise it’s not just because I love national parks!

Yes, it’s time to leave the cutthroat real estate games on the shelf and instead compete against one another to visit the most national parks.

Filled with the beautiful artwork of the Fifty-Nine Parks Print Series, PARKS is sure to become a new family favorite.

Black Friday Note: Hurry! It’s 30% off right now!

Buy: PARKS by Keymaster Games

2. America The Beautiful National Park Pass

Here’s a no-brainer. They love the national parks, right? Get them the one and only annual pass that gets them into the national parks, national forests, and countless other precious public lands for free. Think of it as a national park gift card.

Plus if you buy it through REI they donate 10% of pass sale proceeds to the National Forest Foundation, National Park Foundation, the U.S. Endowment for Forestry & Communities, Conservation Alliance, Trust for Public Lands, and the Outdoor Alliance. Talk about a win-win!

Buy: America The Beautiful National Park Pass at REI

3. 2024 National Park Foundation Wall Calendar

Kick off the new year with this beautiful national parks calendar! This is a great calendar to show off your national parks pride at home or at the office.

Plus you can feel great that your purchase is helping fund the National Park Service through its official charity: the National Park Foundation.

Buy: 2024 National Park Foundation Wall Calendar

4. Darn Tough Vermont Hiking Socks

Hikers, campers, and national park people LOVE good-quality socks. Sock and boot stories tend to be a common campfire conversation topic and nobody wants to be the one frying their cheap socks over the fire in a vain attempt to keep warm and dry.

In terms of an all-around hiking sock, there really is no better than Darn Tough Vermont’s hiking socks.

These socks can be worn over and over again on the trail (and I mean consecutive days out camping) and seriously feel as good as new each morning.

Buy: Darn Tough Vermont Hiking Socks

5. National Geographic Atlas of the National Parks

Not only does this beautiful book contain gorgeous images from our national parks in a perfect coffee table size, it also uses our photographs of Voyageurs National Park for the Voyageurs section of the book – and I have to say they look quite nice in there.

That aside, it’s a wonderful compendium of the national parks full of stunning photos that are sure to inspire future trips and spark great conversation.

Buy: National Geographic Atlas of the National Parks

CHECK OUT OUR 40 BEST NATIONAL PARKS BOOKS LIST

National Park Maps & Posters Gift Ideas

6. Framed National Parks Map

Buy: Framed National Parks Map by More Than Just Parks

7. National Parks Checklist Map

Buy: National Parks Checklist Map by More Than Just Parks

8. National Parks Scratch Off Poster

This is the best scratch-off national parks poster out there and it’s very reasonably priced. If you or someone you know is looking for a more interactive way to check off the parks you’ve visited this is the perfect gift.

Buy: National Parks Scratch Off Poster

9. Vintage National Park Posters

This set of 5 vintage national park posters hearkens back to the days of the Civilian Conservation Corps and the old railroad “See America First” campaigns.

These make perfect decor for the young or old park enthusiast in your family with their timeless retro appeal.

Buy: Vintage National Park Posters

10. National Parks Pocket Tee

I love this national parks pocket tee from the Landmark Project that features original artwork logos for each park on the back of the shirt.

It’s simple, it’s unisex, and it’s a great way to show your love for the parks in style. Plus you’ll be the envy of the trail!

Buy: National Parks Pocket Tee

Best National Park Books, Guides, and Journals

11. National Geographic Complete National Parks of the United States

Here’s an excellent gift for any park fan. Complete with all 423 national park sites (not just the 63 national parks), this is the most comprehensive guide to the lands administered by America’s National Park Service out there and it’s done beautifully.

Whether displayed as a coffee table book or used for reference you’ll be proudly reaching for this gorgeous book for years to come as you sift through the national parks in stunning detail.

Buy: National Geographic Complete National Parks of the United States

12. The Art of the National Parks: Park-Lover’s Journal

There are a lot of journal choices out there geared for all kinds of hobbyists, but this is the journal for national park enthusiasts old or young.

Filled with the beautiful artwork of Fifty-Nine Parks and spaces to record where you went, who you were with, what you saw, and much more for each park, this is the perfect journal for anyone who makes a hobby of visiting the national parks.

Oh, and there’s a place for each park stamp!

Buy: National Park Journal by Fifty-Nine Parks

13. The Wilderness Warrior: Theodore Roosevelt and the Crusade for America

A masterful work by acclaimed author and historian Douglas Brinkley on one of our nation’s greatest environmentalists.

This book is a seminal work in conservation non-fiction and is sure to delight any reader with an interest in the outdoors or American history.

Roosevelt’s life is endlessly fascinating and deeply intertwined with the early conservation movement in the U.S. This book is sure to be a hit national park gift for the reader in your family.

Buy: The Wilderness Warrior: Theodore Roosevelt and the Crusade for America by Douglas Brinkley

14. Rightful Heritage: Franklin D. Roosevelt and the Land of America

Acclaimed author and historian Douglas Brinkley does it again with this follow-up to The Wilderness Warrior, this time chronicling President Franklin Roosevelt’s relatively unknown yet staggering conservation achievements.

Personally, I tore through this book and enjoyed it even more than The Wilderness Warrior, partly due to how little I knew at the time about FDR’s passion for the environment and conservation.

I highly recommend both The Wilderness Warrior and Rightful Heritage to anyone interested in conservation, national parks, public lands, or American history.

Buy: Rightful Heritage: Franklin D. Roosevelt and the Land of America by Douglas Brinkley

15. National Parks Passport

There are a number of ways you can collect your national park stamps from each park you visit, the Park Service will be happy to stamp your journal or whatever you have, but there’s something about the classic National Parks Passport that makes it feel official.

This is a great gift for anyone you know who loves visiting the parks and collecting national park souvenirs from their travels.

Buy: National Parks Passport

16. National Parks Coloring Book

This great coloring book was a big hit with my young nephews last year and I’m sure it will be with the young explorers in your family.

Fifty-Nine Parks’ inspiring artwork makes for a great canvas for kids to bring the parks to life in their own way.

Bring it on a road trip and they’ll be excited to see what they’ve been coloring come to life!

Buy: National Parks Coloring Book by Fifty-Nine Parks

17. Pocket Guide to Hiking/Backpacking

This waterproof pocket guide for hiking & backpacking is the perfect companion guide for anyone you know planning a solo or group backpacking trip.

Inside you’ll find a wealth of helpful and concise information to make your hiking and backpacking trips fun and safe.

A perfect gift for the worrying parent to stuff in their adventurous child’s backpack or wrap under the tree.

Buy: Pocket Guide to Hiking/Backpacking

18. The National Parks: America’s Best Idea

The companion book to Ken Burns & Dayton Duncan’s acclaimed documentary series on America’s National Parks, this beautiful book is a great coffee table addition and national park memento for the outdoors person in your family.

Buy: The National Parks: America’s Best Idea

19. Ansel Adams in the National Parks: Photographs from America’s Wild Places

This most comprehensive collection of Ansel Adams national parks photography is a must-have for any budding landscape photographer or park aficionado.

Adams’s work in the national parks was hugely successful in the early fight for conservation and remains a lasting testament to these iconic landscapes and Adams’s legendary photographic skills.

Buy: Ansel Adams in the National Parks Book

National Park Gift Ideas for the Home

20. Limited Edition Protect The Parks Series Fatwood Fire Starter Sticks – 13lb Crate

A fantastic gift for any national park lover who likes to build fires, which should cover every national park lover.

This collectible wooden crate comes with 13lbs of all-natural fatwood fire starter sticks, perfect for building the foundation of a beautiful, long-lasting fire.

Set this next to your fireplace and add some rustic national park style to your living room while you sip well-earned that hot cider.

Better Wood Products donates 5% of profits to the National Park Foundation. Various national park designs are available.

Buy: Limited Edition National Parks Fatwood Crate by Better Wood Products

21. National Park Candles by The Roosevelts Candle Co.

Ignite a sensory adventure with these national park candles from The Roosevelt Candle Co. – a perfect gift for the homebound explorer.

Handcrafted with nature-inspired scents, these candles encapsulate the spirit of our most treasured outdoor spaces, whisking you off to the cool evergreen forests of Grand Teton or the sunny desert blooms of Joshua Tree. Combining eco-friendly soy wax with on-point fragrance oils, they create a tranquil ambiance that rekindles your best outdoor memories.

Choose from larger 10oz candles to smaller cocktail glass candles that take on a new life long after they’ve burned out. For smaller gifts that can be bundled try their travel candles or fragrance oils for those with diffusers at home. You really can’t go wrong here.

Buy: National Park Candles by The Roosevelts Candle Co.

22. Smokey Bear 2024 Calendar

Only you can decide if this awesome calendar celebrating Smokey’s 80th birthday is right for your home or office. We all know there’s only one correct answer to that.

Seriously though, this is a really cool calendar that celebrates Smokey Bear and helps support a good cause. The Landmark Project donates 10% of the proceeds to Wildfire Prevention Education.

Buy: Smokey Bear 2024 Calendar

23. Pendleton National Parks Blanket

Pendleton has been celebrating America’s national parks with a distinctive line of blankets for over 100 years. Pendleton’s quality is legendary and these blankets are sure to become family heirlooms for generations. Over 12 national park designs to choose from.

Buy: National Parks Blanket by Pendleton

24. Whiskey Peaks Grand Teton Set of 4 Glasses

These beautifully crafted crystal whiskey glasses featuring a topographical impression of the iconic Teton Range are sure to be the talk of your next get-together.

It’s time to take happy hour up a notch with these memorable rocks glasses. The perfect gift for the national park aficionado in your family.

Buy: Grand Teton Whiskey Glasses

25. Embroidered National Park Pillow by Catstudio

This hand-embroidered pillow featuring an original design is meant to be a family heirloom. Each pillow takes a week to craft but will be treasured for many years.

Currently, you can find beautifully crafted unique pillows for Yellowstone, Yosemite, Grand Teton, and Glacier.

Buy: Yosemite National Park Hand-Embroidered Pillow

26. National Parks Maps Towel

You don’t need the latest in swimsuit fashion to be the envy of the beach, just this national parks towel!

Plus it’s made with GRS-certified post-consumer recycled plastic, which won’t stretch or warp over time.

Buy: National Parks Maps Towel by Nomadix

27. National Park Candles by Paddywax

Paddywax National Park Candles are about as authentic as it gets. Glacier smells of white pine and hemlock, Acadia smells of seagrass and driftwood, Olympic smells of Pacific moss, and they go on like this.

These candles make the perfect gift for national park lovers looking to strike a match and reminisce about their favorite places and adventures while curled up in the comfort of their homes.

With their natural wood wicks, you’re sure to be transported to your favorite outdoor places in no time.

Buy: National Park Candles by Paddywax

28. Pendleton National Parks Pet Bed

Because your furry friend deserves a rustic national park-themed place to rest after those arduous outdoor adventures.

This line of Pendleton pet beds features their iconic national park series of colors and comes in several sizes to accommodate almost any pet.

If you know someone who enjoys adventures outdoor with their pet this is the perfect national park-themed gift for them.

Buy: Pendleton National Parks Pet Bed

29. Smokey Loves The Forest Puzzle

I’m fully aware that Smokey Bear is the U.S. Forest Service mascot, but we’re about public lands here and what national park enthusiast doesn’t love our national bear?

This nostalgic 1000-piece puzzle salutes everyone’s favorite forester and makes the perfect activity while sipping a hot cup of cider by a fire that you’ll be ensuring burns safely.

Buy: Smokey Loves The Forest Puzzle

Best National Park Games

30. National Parks 1,000 Piece Vintage Puzzle

If you’re looking for the perfect national parks puzzle you can stop now, you found it.

Cavallini Papers & Co. makes beautiful vintage puzzles and decor on a range of typically nature-related topics and their national parks puzzles are simply the best.

Buy: National Parks Vintage Map 1,000 Piece Puzzle by Cavallini Papers & Co.

Buy: National Parks Vintage Posters 1,000 Piece Puzzle by Cavallini Papers & Co.

31. TRAILS, a Family Strategy Board Game About Hiking and Outdoors

The best national park game is at the top of this list so be sure to check that out. If you like that one, this game is made by the same geniuses at Keymaster Games using the same beautiful artwork from Fifty-Nine Parks.

The major difference here is that this game plays much faster (typically 20 minutes) and is more portable making a great addition to any camping trip!

Buy: TRAILS by Keymaster Games

32. National Parks Playing Cards

A deck of cards is most definitely a camping essential. This handsome deck of cards is done by our friends at Fifty-Nine Parks and features their beautiful artwork of our national parks.

If you’re going to get national parks playing cards get the best. Also, check out my fireside chat with them from a few years back.

Buy: National Parks Playing Cards by Fifty-Nine Parks

33. Monopoly National Parks Edition

So take Monopoly and swap out the properties for iconic national parks, the pieces for things like a ranger hat, a tent, a bison, etc., you get the idea.

If you’re trying to think of a good gift for the national parks lover in your family, this national parks-themed gift monopoly set is a pretty safe bet. Plus a portion of the proceeds go to the National Park Foundation!

Buy: National Parks Monopoly by Hasbro

34. Scrabble: National Parks

Why not upgrade that old Scrabble set with this inexpensive National Parks-themed gift edition? Did I mention a portion of the proceeds from the sale goes to the National Park Foundation?

Is it very different from the original game? Well no, but players get extra points for national park-themed words. So try your hand at a national parks-style Scrabble game that’s fun for the whole family!

Buy: Scrabble: National Parks by Hasbro

35. Parks: Memories

From the makers of our #1 national park gift comes this strategic matching game that is fun for the whole family.

It plays in less than 30 minutes and adds some fun elements of strategy to a classic matching game. Of course, the game also employs the beautiful artwork of Fifty-Nine Parks.

Buy: Parks: Memories by Keymaster Games

36. Trivial Pursuit: National Park 100th Anniversary Edition

Who’s the national park trivia buff in your family? This national parks edition of Trivial Pursuit will make the perfect gift with over 600 questions on national park history and facts.

Better yet, its compact design makes it perfect for bringing on camping trips!

Buy: Trivial Pursuit National Park 100th Anniversary Edition by Hasbro

37. YAHTZEE National Parks Travel Edition

This national parks-themed gift is a take on the original family classic only it changes out the traditional numbered dice for national park icons. It also comes in a perfect travel size for plenty of fun-filled future family trips.

Plus a portion of your purchase is donated to the National Park Foundation, talk about a win-win!

Buy: YAHTZEE National Parks Travel Edition by Hasbro

38. JENGA National Parks Special Edition

JENGA pulled off a terrific spin on this family classic by adding interesting national park facts to each block along with the National Park Foundation’s logo.

And yes, you guessed it, a portion of the proceeds from your purchase are donated to the National Park Foundation. If you have JENGA it’s time to upgrade, and if you don’t this is the set to buy!

Buy: JENGA National Parks Special Edition by Hasbro

National Park Clothing & Accessories Gift Ideas

39. Respect The Locals Wildlife T-Shirt

This great-looking t-shirt sports a message we can all get behind: respect for wildlife. Why not wear your colors on your sleeve on your next hike or evening on the town?

Available in deep navy and redwood colors and XS-XXXL.

Buy: Respect Wildlife T-Shirt by The Landmark Project

40. The Landmark Project National Parks Map T-Shirt

The Landmark Project makes some really great gifts for outdoorsy people, but this one is particularly for national park fans.

Featuring a detailed map of America’s national parks this one’s sure to be a favorite for adventures and barbecues alike.

Buy: National Parks Map T-Shirt by The Landmark Project

41. Woodsy Owl Shirt

What a great throwback here. Who doesn’t love Woodsy Owl, the Forest Service’s companion do-gooder to Smokey Bear? The shirt is unisex and available in sizes from XS-XXXL. Best of all the Landmark Project donates 10% of proceeds to Leave No Trace!

What’s not to like about this classic retro shirt with a good message?

Buy: The Landmark Project Woodsy Owl T-Shirt

42. Darn Tough Vermont Appalachian Trail Socks

As I’ve said before, Darn Tough Vermont makes the best hiking socks on the planet. These particular socks sport the logo of the Appalachian Trail and 5% of sales go toward supporting the Appalachian Trail Conservancy’s outdoor education programs and maintenance of America’s iconic national scenic trail.

They also have hiking socks for the Pacific Crest Trail and the Continental Divide Trail if you prefer either of those. And of course, a portion of those sales will go towards supporting their respective trails. Grab some before they’re gone!

Buy Mens & Womens: Appalachian Trail Hiking Socks by Darn Tough Vermont

43. Smokey Bear Socks

Because who wouldn’t love receiving a pair of socks with our beloved fire safety bear on them?

Two choices here, one a deep forest green with Smokey’s face printed on them in color, the other a more traditional Forest Service color scheme with Smokey printed in green. Either way, you can’t go wrong!

Buy: Smokey Bear Full Color Socks

Buy: Traditional White & Green Smokey Bear Socks

44. National Parks Trucker Hat

Hats are always a great gift. Take this classic truckers hat that pays perfect homage to the national parks, it’s forest green and gold and ready for the trails.

This is sure to be a weather worn classic in no time. Also available for kids.

Buy: National Parks Trucker Hat by The Landmark Project

45. National Park Type Tee

This is a really cool t-shirt that includes different fonts for each national park on the back. It’s a great to sport your love for the parks and a surefire way to to get compliments from your fellow hikers.

Buy: National Park Type Tee from The Landmark Project

46. Men’s ’73 Skyline Organic T-Shirt

What does Patagonia have to do with national parks gifts you say? Patagonia is a certified B-Corp that is on the front lines of conservation in the United States, donating and publicizing causes that aim to protect our parks, forests, and precious landscapes.

We’re big fans of Patagonia here at More Than Just Parks and highly recommend their gear for outdoor enthusiasts. This cool t-shirt comes in a number of colors and is sure to be a favorite.

Buy: Men’s ’73 Skyline Organic T-Shirt by Patagonia

47. Pendleton National Park Beanie

These timeless beanies from Pendleton come in 5 different unique national park patterns (Yellowstone pictured here). Tis the season for staying warm so why not do it in true national park style.

These beanies are perfect for hitting the trails this winter so go ahead and get them the national parks gift that keeps on giving – warmth!

Buy: National Park Beanie by Pendleton

Unique National Park Gifts, Ornaments, & more

48. GoJo Portable Coffee & Tea Brewing Straw

Okay so this isn’t technically a national park gift, but we were too excited about this product to wait for our camping and hiking gifts posts later. Suffice to say this is a perfect gift for anyone you know who likes to go camping.

There are a lot of products floating around out there that claim to be your camping coffee solution, but then they have all kinds of parts that clutter up your limited space and are complicated for the wee hours of the morning.

Enter GoJo, the last camping coffee solution you’ll ever need. Here’s how it works: Drop in a scoop of ground coffee into your mug, add hot water, pop in your GoJo, and enjoy!

I can personally attest that this product is every bit the game-changer it looks to be.

Buy: GoJo Portable Coffee & Tea Brewing Straw

49. Smokey Bear Ornament

Add Smokey to your tree this holiday season to remind Dad and Mom not to overload the outlet and keep the tree watered.

This ornament is really a must have gift for national park lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Remember, only you can follow through and buy this for the national park fan in your family.

Buy: Smokey Bear Christmas Ornament

50. National Park Entrance Sign Ornament

These glass-blown national park ornaments make the perfect Christmas gift for the national park fan in your family.

Choose from a wide variety of parks and get them an ornament they’ll display with pride this year!

Buy: National Park Entrance Sign Ornament

51. Half Dome Decanter

This beautiful hand-blown decanter featuring a topographical impression of Yosemite National Park’s famous Half Dome is sure to make a memorable national park themed gift for someone you must really like.

34 oz of their favorite whiskey will feel right at home in this one-of-a-kind decanter.

Buy: Half Dome Decanter

52. Stanley Pendleton National Park Patterned Thermos

The classic Stanley thermos gets a Pendleton refresh with two timeless national park patterns, Mount Rainier in green and the Grand Canyon in white.

Everybody needs a Stanley thermos so you might as well go all the way and get the Pendleton national park one. I’m partial to the Mount Rainier Green myself.

Buy: Stanley Pendleton Mount Rainier Thermos

Buy: Stanley Pendleton Grand Canyon Thermos

53. Evergreen X National Parks Dry Box Protective Case

These cases are designed to put your phone, watch, passport, or really anything in to keep them protected while you’re out in the wild. These cases are waterproof and drop proof making them perfect for national park explorations.

They also come in a variety of national park-themed designs. The other designs include the Utah parks, pacific northwest parks, Yosemite, and Yellowstone.

Buy: National Parks Dry Box Protective Case

Best National Park Gifts for Kids

54. National Parks A to Z Kids Book

This fun kids book is a great way to introduce kids to the national parks and the incredible plants and animals that make them so special.

They’ll be asking what Egrets are and where the Everglades is in no time!

Buy: National Parks A to Z Kids Book by Gus D’Angelo

55. National Geographic Backyard Safari Kit for Kids

Nature has so much to offer kids. This backyard safari kit is sure to fire their imaginations and get them excited about exploring the great outdoors.

The kit includes everything you see pictured, more than enough to outfit any young budding explorer!The perfect gift for the backyard and future trips!

Buy: Backyard Safari Kit for Kids by National Geographic

56. National Parks National Parks 24-Piece Cube Puzzle

Featuring Everglades, Arches, and Yellowstone national parks, this 24-piece set of alphabet blocks doubles as a puzzle. It’s an ideal gift for the new explorer in your family (for ages 2+).

In addition to being a perfect gift for outdoorsy parents who recently had a child, it also helps support our national parks. Melissa & Doug have committed to a partnership with the National Park Foundation donating at least $1 million over the next 3 years.

Buy: Melissa & Doug National Parks Cube Puzzle

57. Kids Smokey Bear Trucker Hat

What better way to get the young explorer in your life outfitted for the outdoors than with this hat featuring the lovable Smokey Bear.

Oh and the Landmark Project makes a 10% donation to the US Forest Service for wildfire prevention education with each purchase.

Buy: Kids Smokey Bear Trucker Hat by The Landmark Project

58. National Parks Wooden Pretend Camera

This wooden pretend camera features the sights and sounds of Rocky Mountain National Park. Each photograph depicts animals or scenes found in Rocky Mountain National Park and plays accompanying sounds. Of course there’s also all kinds of interesting facts and educational content to go with it.

Kids 3+ will love to play pretend photographer as they take pictures of bears, elk, moose, and other animals found in Rocky Mountain. This is a great way to introduce your kids to the world of nature photography and the parks. Of course your purchase also helps support the National Park Foundation.

Buy: Melissa & Doug National Parks Pretend Camera

59. Explore The National Parks Youth T-Shirt

Of course kids needs cool national park graphic t-shirts too. We like this one from The Landmark Project featuring sustainably made materials and a great retro graphic.

Comes in a variety of sizes.

Buy: Explore National Parks T-Shirt by The Landmark Project

60. A Dog’s National Park Vacation Kids Book

Here’s another great national parks book to introduce the youngsters to the wonders of our parks. This is perfect for the little explorer in your family or if you’re planning a family vacation to the parks and want to stoke some excitement!

Buy: A Dog’s National Park Vacation by Paul Meier

Summary of the Best National Park Gifts

I hope you’ve enjoyed this comprehensive guide to the best national park gifts for 2023.

As someone who spends a great deal of every year in the national parks I get a lot of park-themed gifts from friends and family every year and of course buy a lot of things myself – so I suppose I like to think I know a little something about which national park gifts are actually worthwhile and where to find them.

I hope you’ve found some great gifts for loved ones here!

How To Pick The Right National Park Gift

Okay so I have a list of the 56 best national park gifts out there from a wide variety of retailers covering all kinds of niches – but how do you determine what gift is the right one for the national park lover in your family?

Let’s start with where they are in their parks obsession and then narrow down by their characteristics.

• National Park Gifts for the park fan just starting out
  • A National Parks Checklist Map is the perfect place to start.
  • The next thing they’ll need is an annual park pass to get them in to all the parks they plan to visit.
  • National park books are the perfect place to find the inspiration and information needed to plan that big park roadtrip. Try these: National Geographic Atlas of The National Parks, National Geographic Complete National Parks Guide

• National Park Gifts for the national parks veteran
  • You may want to avoid the annual pass as they likely already have one. Instead opt for something like Darn Tough Vermont’s indestructible hiking socks (expensive socks that they’ll be thanking you for for years) or the GoJo Portable Coffee & Tea Straw which will make their park trips easier and more enjoyable.

• Gifts for the national parks lover who likes games
  • No matter where they are in their national parks obsession, PARKS is the perfect gift for any national park fan who enjoys games.
  • As someone who enjoys board games myself, I have a pretty exhaustive list of the best national park games out there with my takes on each one. I’m sure you’ll find the right one here.

• For the reader or history buff
  • We’ve got you covered. Acclaimed historian Douglas Brinkley’s masterful works The Wilderness Warrior and Rightful Heritage, on the Theodore Roosevelt and Franklin Roosevelt’s lifelong pursuits in conservation, are seminal works in conservation non-fiction that I highly recommend.
  • You might also try National Geographic’s Atlas of The National Parks or National Geographic Complete National Parks Guide, perfect coffee table books filled with beautiful imagery and insightful information.

• For the home decorator
  • These vintage national park posters make for great timeless decor, also this national parks scratch off poster looks great on any wall as they make their way through the parks.
  • For a mixture of outdoorsy ambiance and neutral decor you can’t go wrong with these national park candles.
  • Lastly these rocks glasses and this decanter make the perfect addition to any national park fan’s bar cart or happy hour corner.

• For kids
  • You’re sure to find a winner amongst these seven gift ideas for kids.
  • For infants and toddlers I recommend this set of national park alphabet blocks that doubles as a puzzle.
  • Also don’t forget this great national parks coloring book which makes the perfect companion on a long road trip!

• For Anyone
  • You really can’t go wrong with a classic t-shirt and I’ve got plenty to choose from on this list. There’s this awesome retro Woodsy Owl shirt, a very cool national parks map t-shirt, and this unique national parks pictogram shirt.
  • If they live or travel to cold areas this Pendleton National Park Beanie is classic and looks good with anything.

National Park Gifts FAQ

Top 10 Best National Park Gifts

With that, I’ll roundup my top 10 favorite gifts on here – these are the one’s I recommend the most this year!

1. PARKS by Keymaster Games & Fifty-Nine Parks
2. America The Beautiful National Park Pass
3. National Geographic Atlas of the National Parks
4. National Parks Checklist Map
5. National Geographic Complete National Parks of the United States
6. Darn Tough Vermont Hiking Socks
7. National Park Candles by The Roosevelts Candle Co.
8. The Art of the National Parks: Park-Lover’s Journal
9. National Parks 1,000 Piece Vintage Puzzle
10. GoJo Portable Coffee & Tea Brewing Straw

Stay tuned for more posts on gift ideas for hikers and campers next holiday season! We have so many more unique outdoor gift ideas to share!

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Article Overview: Best National Parks To Visit in January

Best National Parks to Visit by Month Series

We started this series of best national parks to visit by month to give folks the best idea of how to time their national parks trips. Every national park is mentioned at least once in this series so that you know when to visit each and every park (no park is left behind!). We even cover nearby national monuments and forests to consider as well.

Additionally, we cover the national parks you’ll want to avoid each month for a variety of reasons including temperature, crowd sizes, closures, insects, and more.

Something to note is that some national parks are mentioned multiple times while others are only mentioned once.

If you’re interested in other times of the year as well be sure to check out our Best National Parks by Season Guide which has helpful graphics and charts to help you determine which time of year is best to visit a given national park.

We’ll also have more best national parks by month articles linked at the bottom of each page including the nearest months.

Best National Parks in January

10. Everglades National Park

• Location: Florida
• Weather: The average high is 78°F (25° C) while the average low is 54°F (12° C) with infrequent rain.
• Sunrise & Sunset Times: Average sunrise is 7:09am and sunset is 5:48pm.
• Crowds: Moderate
• Our Favorite Resources: About The Park / Map / Guidebook / Hikes / Things to Do

Visiting Everglades National Park in January

Skip the resorts and beaches and head to this UNESCO World Heritage Site which happens to be one of the best national parks to visit in January.

Winter in Everglades National Park is known as the dry season here and is the best and most popular time to visit the park. The park’s notorious humidity is mostly gone and the plentiful biting insects are greatly diminished allowing for a much more enjoyable visit.

January is the best month to visit the Everglades with low humidity and mild temperatures.

Thanks to the pleasant weather and near total absence of the usual biting insects January in the Everglades is wonderful. Due to the low waters at this time of the year it’s easy to spot many of the park’s incredible animal inhabitants as they congregate near water sources.

Everglades National Park is a world class birding destination and the winter provides excellent opportunities to view migrating birds that seek the warmth of this South Florida ecological paradise.

Best Things to Do at this National Park in January

Things To Do: Birding | Wildlife Viewing | Camping | Hiking

9. Haleakalā National Park

• Location: Hawaii
• Weather: The average high (not in the summit area) is 75°F (24° C) while the average low is 65°F (18° C) with 12 days of rain.
• Sunrise & Sunset Times: Average sunrise is 7:03am and sunset is 6:04pm.
• Crowds: Low
• Our Favorite Resources: About The Park / Map / Guide / Things to Do / Winter in the Park

Visiting Haleakalā National Park in January

Of course we had to have a Hawaii National Park on this list! There’s nothing quite like ditching the cold winter weather of the mainland US and hopping a flight to sunny Hawaii.

January in Haleakala is a great time to visit the park. Crowds are far from peak visitation and the weather is mild, albeit rainy. Bring plenty of rain gear and some good boots and get out there and enjoy this lush national park in paradise!

Note: The summit area of Haleakala sees rapid and often unpredictable weather changes and is quite cold this time of year. We even had some snow when we visited!

Best Things to Do at this National Park in January

Things To Do: Hiking the Crater | Summit Sunrise | Camping | Waimoku Falls

8. Redwood National Park

• Location: California
• Weather: The average high is 57°F (14° C) while the average low is 46°F (8° C) with 15 days of precipitation.
• Sunrise & Sunset Times: Average sunrise is 7:37am and sunset is 5:11pm.
• Crowds: Low
• Our Favorite Resources: Things to Do / Guide / Map / Guidebook / Where to Stay / Video / Photos

Visiting Redwood National Park in January

You may not have guessed it, but Redwood is one of the best national parks to visit in January thanks to it’s unique climate and legendary scenery. While January is a bit chillier than other months, it’s still much warmer here than most parks.

Temperatures in Redwood National Park almost never dip below freezing with an average low of 42 and highs of 55.

The further south in the park you go the warmer it will be with the Humboldt Redwoods (technically not part of the system but still amazing) being much warmer than the Jedediah Smith Redwoods.

Best Things to Do at this National Park in January

Things To Do: Stout Grove, Lady Bird Johnson Grove, Avenue of the Giants

7. Yosemite National Park

• Location: California
• Weather: The average high is 48°F (9° C) while the average low is 28° (-4° C) with 7 days of precipitation.
• Sunrise & Sunset Times: Average sunrise is 7:11am and sunset is 5:03pm.
• Crowds: Moderate
• My Favorite Resources: Map / Guidebook / Facts / Where to Stay / Things to Do

Visiting Yosemite National Park in January

John Muir’s “Grandest Temple of them all” is every bit as grand during the colder months of the year. Winter in Yosemite National Park can only be described as magical making it one of our best national parks to visit in January.

Well, okay magical isn’t the only word one can use to describe Yosemite in the winter. The roads can get pretty nasty during this time of year.

In fact, I recall entering the park during a winter storm and being told by the ranger at the entrance that there had already been 7 accidents on the icy road into the valley in the past 2 hours and that most had yet to be reached by the tow truck.

While that case is fairly rare the note of caution is worth keeping in mind. For those who do make it into the park after a fresh snowfall the scene is otherworldly. Clouds gliding through the snow-covered valley as the sun hits the ice crystals making for dazzling displays of outdoor majesty.

Note that many national park roads including Glacier Point and Tioga Pass close seasonally in January making several of the top attractions inaccessible by car.

Best Things to Do at this National Park in January

Things To Do: Glacier Point, Tunnel View, Yosemite Falls

6. Crater Lake National Park

• Location: Oregon
• Weather: The average high is 36°F (2° C) while the average low is 20°F (-7° C) with 100 inches of snowfall.
• Sunrise & Sunset Times: Average sunrise is 7:34am and sunset is 5:00pm.
• Crowds: Low
• Our Favorite Resources: Facts

Visiting Crater Lake National Park in January

The deepest lake in North America is one of the most beautiful places to visit in America during any time of year. January adds an extra layer of magic to Crater Lake National Park.

While the crater rim road closes to vehicle traffic during the winter at Crater Lake, all sorts of new recreational opportunities fill the void. Cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and even fat biking are a few of the most popular activities during winter in this national park.

January is also a great time to catch the northern lights at Crater Lake which can be truly spectacular.

Would be visitors should know that Crater sees epic proportions of snowfall during the winter with January receiving a whopping 100 inches on average. This can complicate travel plans and mean plenty of grey skies, but for snow lovers there are few better places.

Best Things to Do at this National Park in January

Things To Do: Rim Drive, Wizard Island Ferry, Watchman Peak

Top 5 Best National Parks to Visit in January

5. Grand Teton National Park

• Location: Wyoming
• Weather: The average high is 25°F (-4° C) while the average low is 0°F (-18° C) with 12 days of precipitation.
• Sunrise & Sunset Times: Average sunrise is 7:52am and sunset is 5:11pm.
• Crowds: Low
• My Favorite Resources: Guide / Maps / Guidebook / Hikes / Things to Do / Where to Stay / Video / Facts

Visiting Grand Teton National Park in January

Grand Teton is one of those national parks that has seen a major influx in visitors over the past few years (haven’t they all!). In 2021 Grand Teton was the 7th most visited national park in the US seeing 600,000 more people than the previous year.

If that sounds daunting to you, fear not. Most of the folks visiting Grand Teton do so in the late spring and summer. The temperatures can be somewhat brutal in January with highs in the low and mid 20s and lows near zero. Add to that some fearsome winter winds and you can see why summer is so popular.

However, the scenery is spectacular and you’ll have the place practically to yourself (compared to summer anyway). Popular activities during winter in Grand Teton National Park include cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and wildlife viewing.

Best Things to Do at this National Park in January

Things To Do: Bradley & Taggart Lakes Trail, Wildlife Viewing, Schwabacher Landing

4. Arches National Park

• Location: Utah
• Weather: The average high is 40°F (5° C) while the average low is 18°F (-8° C) with 2 days of precipitation.
• Sunrise & Sunset Times: Average sunrise is 7:33am and sunset is 5:20pm.
• Crowds: Low
• Resources: Things to Do / Map / Guidebook / Where to Stay / Facts

Visiting Arches National Park in January

Everyone loves the red rock in the snow and there are few better places to see this magic than Arches National Park. Don’t kid yourself, it’s going to be cold visiting this national park in January with average highs near 40 and average lows hovering around 20.

But, if you can bundle up you might just get lucky with a little dusting of the white stuff. January only sees 2 days of precipitation on average but pretty much all of it is snow.

Best Things to Do at this National Park in January

Things To Do: Delicate Arch, Landscape Arch, Devils Garden, Tower Arch

3. Saguaro National Park

• Location: Arizona
• Weather: The average high is 66°F (19° C) while the average low is 39°F (4° C) with 3 days of precipitation.
• Sunrise & Sunset Times: Average sunrise is 7:23am and sunset is 5:38pm.
• Crowds: Low
• Our Favorite Resources: Guide / Hikes / Things to Do / Map / Guidebook / Where to Stay / Video

Visiting Saguaro National Park in January

A few things southern Arizona has in abundance are sunshine and cacti, none more famous than the Saguaro whose namesake park (Saguaro National Park) is an excellent national park to escape to in January.

The sunsets here are worth the trip alone, seemingly lasting hours and filling up the sky with magnificent yellow, orange, and deep purple hues.

In January average high temperatures range in the pleasant mid 60s and sunshine is plentiful. This is one of my favorite parks to visit during the winter.

Best Things to Do at this National Park in January

Things To Do: Wassen Peak Trail, Desert Ecology Nature Trail, Signal Hill Petroglyphs

2. Death Valley National Park

• Location: California
• Weather: The average high is 67°F (19° C) while the average low is 40°F (4° C) with 1 day of precipitation.
• Sunrise & Sunset Times: Average sunrise is 7:03am and sunset is 4:54pm.
• Crowds: Low
• Our Favorite Resources: Guide / Map / Guidebook / Things to Do / Facts / Camping / Where to Stay / Video

Visiting Death Valley National Park in January

Choosing between the top two best national parks to visit in January was no easy task and it really may come down to whether you want to escape the snow or embrace it.

Situated in the Mojave Desert, Death Valley National Park is the hottest place on earth in Summer soaring to temperatures in the 130s! But winter in Death Valley is a different story altogether.

Average January high temperatures are in the mid 60s in Death Valley National Park which makes for great adventure weather. Despite the morbid name this park has an unbelievable amount of things to see and do as the largest national park in the contiguous United States.

With only 1 day of rain on average in January you can rest assured you’ll be soaking the sun in this beautiful and arid desert park.

Best Things to Do at this National Park in January

Things To Do: Badwater Basin, Zabriskie Point, Eureka Dunes, Artists Palette

1. Sequoia National Park

• Location: California
• Weather: The average high is 37° (3° C) while the average low is 18° (-8° C) with 37 inches of snowfall.
• Sunrise & Sunset Times: Average sunrise is 7:04am and sunset is 5:03pm.
• Crowds: Low
• My Favorite Resources: Map / Guidebook / Things to Do / Facts / Where to Stay / General Sherman Tree

Visiting Sequoia National Park in January

There is no place in the world like Sequoia National Park in January – or any other month for that matter. And that’s because the park is home to the largest trees on earth. But January is a special time here as the sound of the snow softly falling through enormous tree canopies of the sequoia forest is spellbinding.

The contrasts of bright whites against the deep reds and dark greens of the giant trees combines for breathtaking scenery all around.

The world’s largest tree can still be accessed during the winter months as well as a plethora of stunning hiking trails. I highly recommend the Congress Trail as the top trail in the national park during winter.

And don’t worry about having to camp in the frigid temperatures to enjoy multiple days in the park. Sequoia is home to some beautiful lodges complete with dining facilities and fireplaces where you can warm up and recharge as you explore one of the most beautiful places on earth.

The combination of unrivaled scenery, ample lodging, and low crowds make Sequoia our best national park to visit in January.

Best Things to Do at this National Park in January

Things To Do: Big Trees Trail, Congress Trail, Moro Rock

For more things to do in Sequoia check out: 15 Epic Things to Do in Sequoia National Park

National Parks to Avoid in January

Not all national parks are a winter wonderland in January or even a great park to escape the winter. There are two national parks I recommend you avoid in January.

Avoid Lassen Volcanic National Park in January as the park is all but completely closed. Only Manzanita Lake (which is beautiful) is accessible and even it is typically iced over.

Another one to avoid in January is Glacier National Park as most of the park is totally inaccessible. Those who do make it to Glacier in January will find the open areas largely unoccupied.

Helpful Related Articles

Winter National Parks: 15 Stunning National Parks to Visit in Winter

National Monuments Ranked: ALL 128 US National Monuments Ranked (Best to Worst)

National Parks Rankings: ALL 63 US National Parks Ranked By Experts

Most Visited National Parks: Top 10 Most Visited National Parks

Least Visited National Parks: Top 10 Least Visited National Parks

National Parks Road Trips: 10 Best National Park Road Trips

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Article Overview: Voyageurs National Park in Winter

While winter in Voyageurs is not for the faint of heart, with the proper winter gear and planning it can be a magical place. The vast lakes freeze over and become highways for snowmobiles and cross-country skiers, as well as the park’s elusive yet thriving wolf packs.

Winter is the dominant season here in the far north and therefore comes early and stays late. This coldest area of the continental U.S. sees temperatures routinely fall far below zero with a record low of -55° Fahrenheit. Factoring in wind chills brings those already subzero temperatures to new and mind-boggling lows.

Winter also brings ice-fishing, a favorite local pastime that sees what looks like small sheds dotting the frozen lakes, but which are ice houses where you can stay out of the cold while waiting for a bite.

Voyageurs in winter is a land of extremes and sees the park transformed with entirely new ways to explore and enjoy this one-of-a-kind destination.

Winter Monthly Temperatures in Voyageurs

Winter Activities in Voyageurs

Winter in Voyageurs takes things to the extreme with temperatures capable of reaching an eye-popping, or should we say tear-freezing, -55F. While winter is not necessarily our recommended season, with the proper winter gear and planning it can be a magical and new experience.

The giant lakes freeze over and become highways for snowmobiles and cross-country skiers. The vast blanket of white is dotted with ice houses enjoying a favorite local pastime – ice fishing.

With the proper planning, a trip to Voyageurs National Park in the winter can be an other-worldly and exciting adventure. Popular Winter activities in Voyageurs include:

• Snowmobiling on one of the park’s numerous snowmobile trails
• Cross-country skiing through forests and across frozen lakes.
• Wildlife watching. Voyageurs is home to roughly 50 wolves and while your chances of seeing one are rare, they are much higher in winter when the wolves roam the frozen lakes freely from one island to the next in search of prey.
• Ice fishing on one of the park’s three main lakes.
• Snowshoeing through forested trails heavy with snow.
• Take in the majesty of the Northern Lights. On clear nights in the fall and winter visitors have a chance to be treated with some of the most spectacular displays of the aurora borealis found anywhere in the world.

Voyageurs Winter Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Park Orientation

Start your winter adventure at the Rainy Lake Visitor Center, which is the only one open year-round. Here, you’ll learn about the park’s history, its wildlife, and receive safety tips for winter activities. After your orientation, strap on some snowshoes or cross-country skis and explore the trails around Rainy Lake.

Day 2: Ice Fishing and Snowshoeing

Spend your second day ice fishing, a popular winter activity in the park. Rent equipment locally from any number of lodges or outfitters or bring your own to catch walleye, northern pike, and yellow perch. After a morning of fishing, take a snowshoe hike to the Ellsworth Rock Gardens, a beautiful winter wonderland, and a remarkable rock sculpture garden.

Day 3: Snowmobiling Adventure

Take advantage of Voyageurs’ over 110 miles of groomed snowmobile trails and spend the day like a true local buzzing along the park’s beautiful trails. The Kab-Ash Trail offers beautiful views of the park and opportunities to see wildlife. Snowmobiles can be easily and affordably rented from local shops.

Day 4: Wildlife Viewing and Stargazing

Dedicate your final day to wildlife viewing. Common winter animals include deer, foxes, otters, and a variety of bird species. You might also get a chance to see some of the park’s resident wolves – a rare treat! As dusk settles, prepare for a stargazing experience like no other. Far away from city lights, Voyageurs provides an unspoiled view of the night sky with ample opportunities to see the northern lights. Wrap up in a warm blanket, sip some hot cocoa, and marvel at the beauty of the cosmos before ending your trip.

Note: Remember, any trip to Voyageurs National Park during the winter requires careful planning and awareness of safety precautions related to weather conditions. Always check the park’s website for the most up-to-date information before heading out.

Voyageurs in Winter FAQ

Location | Voyageurs National Park, Minnesota

Interested in what Voyageurs is like during other times of the year?

Our personal favorite is fall, but spring & summer are nice as well… and then there’s winter, which is… well, the coldest place in the continental USA!

The Voyageurs Film

This film is the culmination of several weeks spent in the northernmost region of Minnesota known as Voyageurs National Park. Encompassing more than 340 square miles, Voyageurs is a watery wonderland almost exclusively accessible by boat.

Journey with us as we explore a land blanketed in pristine lakes, erupting with kaleidoscopic fall colors, and home to the most spectacular displays of the northern lights on the planet. This is Voyageurs. Filmed primarily in stunning UHD 8K.

Voyageurs National Park Map

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Camping in Voyageurs National Park: Everything You Need To Know

6 Minnesota National Park Sites Worth Visiting

The post Voyageurs In Winter appeared first on More Than Just Parks | National Parks Guides.

Article Overview: Visiting the Grand Canyon in December (Winter)

Wondering if its a good idea to visit the Grand Canyon in December? Well, that depends on what you’re hoping to see and do. While yes it can be done and there are lots of things to see at Grand Canyon National Park in December, not everything is open or accessible.

If you’ve dreamed of snowy canyon walls, cloud inversions, and bundling up at overlooks then winter could be your perfect time of year to visit!

In this article we’ll go over everything you need to know about visiting the Grand Canyon in December including:

• Things to Know Before Visiting the Grand Canyon in December
• December Activities at the Grand Canyon
• What to Wear at the Grand Canyon in December
• December Weather at the Grand Canyon
• What’s Open and What’s Closed at the Grand Canyon in December
• Tips for Visiting the Grand Canyon in Winter

Ready to get started? Let’s go!

Things to Know Before Visiting Grand Canyon National Park in Winter

Entrance Fees

$30 per vehicle OR if you plan to visit more National Parks within the next 12 months I suggest you go ahead and purchase the America the Beautiful Pass (which can be found at the entrance gates to most national parks). This pass gets you into all National Parks, Forests, Monuments, and more including 2,000 sites for free after a one time $79 fee.

Guide Book

James Kaiser is the proverbial bees knees in this department. I love all of his National Park guides and his Grand Canyon Guide is no exception.

Map

I like this map best for Grand Canyon National Park.

Sunscreen

Use it. Lots of it. Especially this one which I never leave the house without because it plays nice with our dear friend, earth

Hours of Operation

The South Rim of the Grand Canyon is open 24 hours a day all 365 days of the year. The North Rim however is closed to all vehicles between December 1st and May 14th with no services offered. From October 15 to December 1 on the North Rim services are limited.

Where to Stay at the Grand Canyon

Here’s my favorite spot to stay at the Grand Canyon.

Grand Canyon in December

Visiting the Grand Canyon in Winter FAQ

Which Parts of the Grand Canyon Are Open in December?

Most folks think of the Grand Canyon in terms of North Rim / South Rim. There’s also an area referred to as Grand Canyon East and Grand Canyon West. Here’s what’s open in December at the Grand Canyon:

South Rim OPEN: The most popular and most heavily visited section of Grand Canyon National Park is the South Rim area located just beyond the South Rim Entrance Station which includes Mather Point & Grand Canyon Village

East Rim OPEN: The east section refers to the area near the east entrance to Grand Canyon National Park which includes the Desert View Watchtower.

North Rim CLOSED*: Located across the canyon from the south rim, the north rim of the Grand Canyon has become increasingly popular in recent years as visitation continues to surge. Despite being roughly 10 miles as the crow flies across the canyon, the drive to the north rim from the south rim takes about 4 hours.

West Rim OPEN: Accessed via the South Entrance followed by Hermit Road or West Rim Drive and includes many of the best overlooks in the park.

Grand Canyon West OPEN: Grand Canyon West is the most recently developed section of the Grand Canyon and managed by the Hualapai Tribe rather than the National Park Service. The famous Grand Canyon Skywalk is located here.

*technically the north rim is open, however all facilities close December 1st including the road to get to the north rim making it virtually inaccessible

What’s the Weather Like at the Grand Canyon in December?

The short answer is cold. Average highs are in the mid 50s and average lows are in the high 30s. While January and February have a higher likelihood of seeing snow, it’s not that unusual to see snow at the Grand Canyon in December.

Is December a Good Time to Visit the Grand Canyon?

It depends on what sort of experience you’re looking for. December brings quiet and solitude to the Grand Canyon. If you’ve been before in the summer, visiting the 4th most visited national park in the country during winter may be a bit shocking.

Overlooks are uncrowded and there’s actually parking available at the Grand Canyon in December.

Is there Snow at the Grand Canyon in December?

There is typically some snow at the Grand Canyon in December although it’s a mixed bag. Last year it snowed 4 times at the Grand Canyon in December with the heaviest snow being a mere .61 inches. Other years have seen large snow storms so you never know!

How Should I Dress for the Grand Canyon in December?

I recommend dressing for the winter, wearing a warm jacket, wool socks, gloves, and pants. There is a common misconception by folks that it will be warm at the Grand Canyon in December because it’s located in Arizona. This is not the case.

For warm weather head down to Saguaro National Park in Tucson!

Is the South Rim of the Grand Canyon Open in December?

Yes, the South Rim of the Grand Canyon is open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, so visiting in December is perfectly doable! I highly recommend visiting if you’re dressed warmly and prepared for a frosty visit.

Is the North Rim of the Grand Canyon Open in Winter?

All facilities at the North Rim of the Grand Canyon close on December 1st each year including the road into the north rim making it virtually inaccessible. Technically you could hike in if you wanted but I strongly recommend against it.

Best Things to Do at the Grand Canyon in December (Winter)

5. Visit the Desert View Watchtower

Location: Grand Canyon East Rim

Features: Overlook, Historical

Desert View Watchtower is one of the most iconic sites at the Grand Canyon offering some of the best views in the park. Visiting this incredible site is one of the my favorite things to do at the Grand Canyon in December.

Designed by one of the southwest’s most influential architects, Mary Colter West, Desert View Watchtower was constructed in 1932 and remains in place today.

Her buildings at Grand Canyon include: Desert View Watchtower, Lookout Studio, Hermits Rest, Phantom Ranch, Bright Angel Lodge, Hopi House, and two employee dormitories – Colter Hall and Victor Hall.

The design is intended to reflect elements of the native tribes and blend with the natural environment of the Grand Canyon. Inside the tower you’ll see beautiful, recently restored murals featuring tribal artwork and pictographs.

At one point the Desert View Watchtower was turned into a gift shop but has since been restored to its original purpose as a scenic rest station for visitors.

The tower is 5 stories tall with different experiences on each level.

4. Watch the Grand Canyon IMAX Movie

Location: Tusayan, Arizona (South Rim)

Features: Air Conditioning, Family Friendly, Accessible

One of the best things to do at the Grand Canyon in December for folks looking for a little heat and relaxing is watching the epic Grand Canyon IMAX Movie.

While the theater is technically located outside of the park, about 10 miles (15 minutes) south of the South Entrance in Tusayan, it’s a great addition for families and folks looking for a bit more understanding and appreciation for the Grand Canyon.

Ticket Prices: Adult(Ages 11+ to 54) $13.59 Youth Tickets(6-10) $10.33 Senior(55+) $12.50 Military $12.50

For more information and to purchase tickets, visit the official Grand Canyon IMAX website.

3. Cruise the Scenic Desert View Drive

Location: South Rim & West Rim

Features: Overlooks, Driving, Hiking Trails, Family Friendly, Wildlife

Looking for another warm activity at the Grand Canyon in December? Here’s one that comes with heat!

The first time I realized that there were elk at the Grand Canyon was seeing one cross the road while driving Desert View Drive. In fact, I didn’t even realized there was more to the national park than Grand Canyon Village and the South Rim the first time I visited.

Desert View Drive has some of the park’s most beautiful scenery and attractions including Desert Viewpoint (one of the best in the park), Desert Watchtower, Navajo Point, Lipan Point (another great one), The Tusayan Museum, Moran Point, Grandview Point, Shoshone Point, Yaki Point, & access to the South Kaibab Trial including Ooh Aah Point.

2. Walk the Trail of Time

Location: South Rim

Features: Historical, Geological, Family Friendly, Accessible, Hiking Trail,Overlooks

The Trail of Time is one of the really great interactive things to do at the Grand Canyon in winter that gives you a real appreciation of the canyon’s epic formation over billions of years. The paved trail starts just behind the Yavapai Geology Museum and is completely accessible.

The first portion of the trail (about 150 yards) covers a span of one million years. The second portion is approximately 2.8 miles and transports you through 2 billion years. Every meter on the second part of the trail represents 1 million years of geologic time in the Grand Canyon.

The trail takes about an hour to complete and provides you with sweeping views of the canyon along the way.

1. Soak in the Epic Overlooks at Mather Point & South Rim Viewpoints

Location: South Rim

Features: Overlooks, Family Friendly

Must do at the Grand Canyon because:

Stepping out onto Mather Point for the first time and getting “the view” of the Grand Canyon is a right of passage for every national park lover out there. Mather Point is a quintessential American viewpoint featuring one of our most prized national treasures. As far as the best things to do at the Grand Canyon go, this is an absolute must for everyone visiting the Grand Canyon for the first time.

With that being said, the South Rim is chocked full of stunning overlooks and viewpoints, most of which are far less crowded than Mather Point which can feel like the opening seconds of Walmart on Black Friday.

Other South Rim Viewpoints include:

• Mary Coulter’s Lookout Studio
• Bright Angel Trailhead
• Yavapai Point
• Pipe Creek Vista
• South Kaibab Trailhead
• Yaki Point
• Shosone Point
• Grandview Point

Map of Things to Do at the Grand Canyon in December (Winter)

South Rim Lodging Options

At the South Rim of the Grand Canyon there are two options if you’re looking for hotels. The first, more expensive option is staying at one of the premiere lodges that are located inside the national park at Grand Canyon Village. For those Grand Canyon hotels see the Xanterra page.

The more affordable option is getting a hotel in Tusayan (5-10 minute drive). I’ve compiled a full listing of the best Tusayan hotels.

Summary of Visiting the Grand Canyon in Winter (December)

1. Dress warmly
2. Cold weather & potential for snow
3. Expect solitude
4. The South Rim is the place to visit
5. North Rim is closed
6. Check out Desert View Watchtower
7. Grand Canyon IMAX
8. Mather Point
9. Walk the Trail of Time
10. Cruise the Desert View Scenic Drive

Helpful Related Articles

Grand Canyon Viewpoints: 20 Best Views of the Grand Canyon (National Park)

Grand Canyon South Rim Things to Do: 15 Amazing Things to Do at the Grand Canyon South Rim

Things to Do at the Grand Canyon: 20 Best Things to Do at Grand Canyon National Park

Closest Cities to the Grand Canyon: 10 Closest Cities Near the Grand Canyon

Grand Canyon Facts: 15 Fascinating Grand Canyon National Park Facts

Desert View Watchtower: Explore the Historic Desert View Watchtower (Grand Canyon)

Grand Canyon in Winter: Visiting the Grand Canyon in December (Winter Guide)

Arizona National Parks: 24 Epic Arizona National Parks to Visit (Photos + Guide)

Things to Do Saguaro NP: 15 Best Things to Do Saguaro National Park

Things to Do Zion NP: 18 Epic Things to Do at Zion National Park

Best Hikes Saguaro NP: 10 Best Saguaro National Park Hikes

National Parks Near Tucson: 10 Best National Parks Near Tucson

National Parks Near Phoenix: 10 Best National Parks Near Phoenix

The post Visiting the Grand Canyon in December (Winter Guide + Tips) appeared first on More Than Just Parks | National Parks Guides.

Winter in Zion National Park can be beautiful, with temperatures cold enough for snowfall. It may be hard to conceive during the extreme temperatures of Summer, but Zion National Park sees occasional snow in winter months. The contrast of the white snow against the red rock is fodder for stunning photos.

The best part of visiting Zion in winter is the reduced crowd sizes. Crowds in the winter are very minimal, and visitors can get areas that are usually packed all to themselves.

Even though crowds will be significantly reduced this time of year, the most popular trails will likely still be crowded. If you’re looking to find further solitude, check out Kolob Canyon, Kolob Terrace, Lava Point, and Pine Creek Gorge Slot Canyon.

Winter Monthly Temperatures in Zion National Park

Winter Activities in Zion National Park

Winter in Zion is a great time to visit (in my opinion). Popular Winter activities in the Zion National Park include:

• See snowy red rock in Kolob Canyon
• Driving the Zion-Mt Carmel Highway Scenic Drive
• Exploring Kolob Terrace and Lava Point
• Hiking Angels Landing

Interested in what Zion is like during other times of the year? Check out our Zion Seasons & Weather page to learn more about which season is best for your visit to the park. Our personal favorite is Fall, but Spring can be nice as well, and Summer is epic.

Things to Know Before You Visit

Entrance Fees: The entrance fee for Zion National Park is $30 per vehicle. If you plan on visiting more than 1 national park this year, I suggest you go ahead and purchase the America the Beautiful Pass (which can be found at the entrance gates to most national parks or online here). This pass gets you into all National Parks, Forests, Monuments, and more including 2,000 sites for free after a one-time $80 fee.

Sunscreen: For many of us, visiting national parks in the summer means lots of sun. Seriously, some of these parks can zap you if you don’t wear sunscreen. We happen to like this one because it works, AND it’s not full of a bunch of chemicals.

Leave No Trace: We’re big fans of Leave No Trace here at MTJP. Want to learn more? Read about the seven principles of Leave No Trace here.

Dogs are not allowed on trails in most national parks due to their potentially disruptive presence with the natural ecosystem. The basic rule is they are allowed where cars can go so be sure to check the rules before bringing along your furry friend.

Things to Pack for Zion in Winter

Map: I use this one.

Guide: I recommend this one – James Kaiser is the gold standard when it comes to national park guidebooks.

Sandals: We recommend these sandals that we love and these sandals which have straps.

Insect Repellent: You hope not to need it, but you want to have it. We typically bring an Eco-Friendly Insect Repellent with us just in case.

Details About Zion National Park

Location: Springdale, Utah

Established: November 19, 1919

Size: 323,431 acres

Native Land: Hopi, Navajo, Northern Ute, Pueblo of Zuni, Southern Paiute

Visitors: 4,320,333 (2018)

Entrance Fees: $30 per vehicle (or $80 for America the Beautiful Pass)

The Zion Film

ZION is the culmination of nearly a month spent exploring Zion National Park during peak fall color. Filmed primarily in stunning UHD 8K.

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