This winter, witness American wilderness wonderlands transformed by snow.
These national parks in the western US are stunning every season. During winter, they turn into magical frozen landscapes only those willing to brave the extreme conditions get to see.
Are you brave enough for this winter adventure? Remember to check the parks' websites for winter opening times, as well as road conditions. Traveling through these areas in winter can be challenging - but oh, so worth it!
1. Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming
Grand Teton National Park offers a quiet, snow-covered refuge in the winter, with limited but excellent cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and ranger-guided snowshoe hikes available. Snowmobiling is restricted in the park, so it's best to check conditions and closures before visiting.
2. Yosemite National Park, California
Yosemite National Park remains an iconic destination in winter, with incredible waterfalls and landscapes to photograph.
The park offers downhill and cross-country skiing options, ice skating, winter hiking, and prime stargazing. Guided winter tours are also available for those looking to make the most of Yosemite's wintery beauty.
Check out 21 Yosemite National Park Pictures [A Trip Down Memory Lane] for more beautiful views of Yosemite.
3. Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming (extends into Montana and Idaho)
In Yellowstone National Park, snow coach and snowmobile tours take visitors to see famous geysers and wildlife along snow-covered trails. There are also opportunities for skiing, snowshoeing, and winter lodging in the park interior for those looking for an immersive experience.
Traction aids are recommended for exploring Yellowstone in the colder months. For more tips for visiting Yellowstone in winter, read: 10 Essential Tips for Exploring Yellowstone in Winter
4. Bryce Canyon National Park, Utah
Bryce Canyon National Park rewards off-season visitors with breathtaking views of red rock formations and amphitheaters along its rim trail and moderate winter hiking options on select trails.
Annual winter festivals also draw crowds to Bryce Canyon and its gorgeous frosted landscapes. Just be sure to use traction devices when hiking the park in winter.
5. Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado
Rocky Mountain National Park offers ranger snowshoe walks and diverse winter hiking across its snow-dusted scene. Sledding at Hidden Valley is another popular winter activity for kids and families.
Snow conditions vary across different park areas, so check conditions before visiting. Nearby Eldora Mountain Ski Resort is available for those seeking downhill options.
6. Glacier National Park, Montana
Glacier National Park transforms in the winter, offering snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and weekend snow coach trips to glimpse wildlife along snow-covered trails.
Certain areas may close due to heavy snow, so always check conditions and notices first. Guided tours and dog sledding options are also available for more adventure.
7. Zion National Park, Utah
In Zion National Park, the reddish canyon cliffs become capped in snow, and the scenery takes on a dramatic new beauty.
The main park road remains open for winter hiking and biking, but ice and snow may lead to closures on some of the trails. We recommend frequently checking the park's visitor updates for the latest winter access information and safety advisories.
8. Olympic National Park, Washington
Boasting one of the snowiest spots in the lower 48, Olympic National Park has prime conditions for almost any winter sport you can imagine.
Popular activities include downhill and cross-country skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, and ranger-led snowshoe walks for some guidance.
9. Mount Rainier National Park, Washington
Paradise is Mount Rainier's renowned winter destination, celebrated for remarkable sledding, snowshoeing, and skiing with spectacular mountain views on clear days. Heavy snow can trigger road closures, so always check conditions before finalizing plans for a winter visit.
10. Lassen Volcanic National Park, California
Up to 30 feet of annual snowfall makes Lassen Volcanic National Park a true winter wonderland. Lassen is perfect for general snow play and cross-country skiing when covered in a fresh blanket of powder. Snowshoeing trails and winter snow camping are also allowed.
11. Crater Lake National Park, Oregon
Crater Lake dazzles in the colder months with ranger-guided snowshoe treks around the rim if conditions allow. Traction devices are strongly recommended for anyone wishing to explore the winter park on foot for maximum stability.
12. Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Park, California
Sequoia & Kings Canyon's giant trees take on a magical new ambiance dressed in snow and ice. These adjacent parks offer both cross-country skiing on designated trails and unlimited backcountry skiing for the more daring. Snowshoeing and winter camping under the sequoias are also possible.
13. Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona
Popular year-round mule rides into the Grand Canyon depart along the Bright Angel Trail. Visitors can also hike or snowshoe along the lower trails when properly prepared and permitted.
Overlooking the frosty canyon from viewpoints such as the Rim Trail requires no permit. Read our guide, The 6 Most Stunning Vistas in Grand Canyon National Park, for more beautiful Grand Canyon viewpoints.
14. Arches National Park, Utah
Even Arches National Park gets a dusting of snow some winters, making landmarks like Balanced Rock appear even more dramatic framed in white. Since conditions vary widely, come prepared for anything from dry ground to deep snow when exploring Arches in winter.
15. Mesa Verde National Park, Colorado
At Mesa Verde National Park, ancient cliff dwellings and archaeological sites can be visited via ranger-guided snowshoe tours in winter. Nearby ski rentals provide access to parks closed to vehicles under snowy conditions. However, trails remain ungroomed for cross-country skiing within the park itself.
Embrace the Magic of the National Parks This Winter
As the brief snapshots of these national parks reveal, winter unleashes a magical landscape that must be experienced first-hand.
So, as the cold approaches, gear up and venture into the white wilderness. Please slow down, embrace the chill, and discover the parks in their peaceful winter splendor.
Revel in the quietude, inhale the crisp air, and create lasting memories as you explore the national parks in their stilled and stunning winter glory.