best state parks to visit in january

20 Awesome Places to Visit in January USA

January is often considered quite a nothing month, but if you’re anything like me, you’ll want to liven it up. One of my favorite ways to do this is by heading off and exploring. 

You can either embrace the cold and make the most of winter snow sports or head to the states with almost guaranteed fine sunny weather. Here are my favorite spots to explore…

1. Breckenridge, Colorado

I’m a huge fan of the charming mountain town of Breckenridge. It offers incredible ski runs deeply coated in perfect powder for much of the winter months, vibrant après options, and a surprisingly lively nightlife in the town. 

Characterized by its charming Victorian architecture, Breckenridge offers legendary skiing opportunities and an iconic main street. It’s a bustling but charming hub with cafes, restaurants, and unique shops. 

I highly recommend going on the highest chairlift in North America when you visit. This time of year provides easy access to the best runs. This month and February , is when the average snowfall is at its highest, and the town transforms into a beautiful winter wonderland. 

• Visitor’s Center Address: The Breckenridge Welcome Centre, 203 S. Main Street Breckenridge, CO 80424, Phone: 877 864 0868
• Average temperatures – minus 1 to minus 7 degrees

My favorite highlights…

• Taking a wander down Main Street, enjoying the magical holiday lights, and stopping off for a warm cup of hot chocolate.
• Going on a fun guided snowmobile tour and exploring the incredibly scenic backcountry. 
• Visiting the International Snow Sculpture Championships, where teams worldwide hand-carve their creative ideas! 

2. Palm Desert, California

Nestled next to Palm Springs in the sun-baked Coachella Valley, roughly equidistant from lively and eclectic Los Angeles and surfers’ paradise San Diego, I’m a big fan of this incredible and quirky destination.

It’s filled with natural hot springs, luxury hotels, country clubs, gourmet restaurants, boutique hotels, golf courses, and sunny weather.

Offering warm desert sun even when most of the Northern Hemisphere is hunkered down for winter, Palm Desert is a favorite pick among celebrities for a blissful winter retreat. 

It’s neither hot nor cold, so it’s perfect for all sorts of activities, from hiking to biking, desert treks, and golf. However, I would recommend just lounging by the pool before a visit to one of the town’s numerous spas.

• Visitor’s Center Address: 73510 Fred Waring Dr, Palm Desert, CA 92260
• Average temperature – 22 degrees

My highlights…

• Hiring a bike and exploring the beautiful desert scenery and views.
• Taking a trip on the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway, where I took Insta-worthy shots of the breathtaking Chino Canyon.
• Attending the glamorous Palm Springs International Film Festival and doing some celebrity spotting! 

3. Zion National Park, Utah

In southwest Utah lies a unique natural reserve distinguished by the steep red cliffs of Zion Canyon, part of the awe-inspiring Zion National Park , an area of outstanding natural beauty. 

I suggest heading out onto the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive, a winding two-lane road that carves a path through the National Park and offers magnificent vistas at every turn before winding up at the serene forest trails along the Virgin River.

I would also recommend exploring the luminous Emerald Pools, the Virgin River, the waterfalls and the Zion Narrow for a unique wintertime walk (although keep safe!) I think this month is a great time to explore Zion without the crowds, and, being based in southern Utah. 

The park experiences mild winters and limited snowfall – so walking trails are accessible even during the winter months. Also, areas closed to cars in summer allow vehicular access – so reaching its natural attractions is never easier!

• Visitors Center Address: 1 Zion Park Blvd, Zion National Park, UT 84767
• Phone: (435) 772-3256
• Average temperature – 10 degrees
• Taking a hike on one of the trails and taking in the picturesque views overlooking the red sandstone cliffs.
• Exploring the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive by car and discovering the incredible landscapes. 
• Paddleboarding on the quiet Quail Creek State Park Lake and spending the day on the serene waters.

4. Big Sky, Montana

In my opinion, this is prime time in Big Sky because of its plethora of family-friendly events and activities. While the nearby famous Yellowstone National Park is an attraction, other outdoor activities include nature zip lines, hikes, and escape rooms.

Winter activities include sledging, snowmobiling, snow-go bike rides, ice trekking, and cross-country skiing. I’d highly recommend the fun après ski scene for those less adventurous! 

No matter how you spend your days, I love that the cozy winter evenings (from December to February) in Big Sky are made for curling up before a fire.

I personally think the endless panoramic views of Montana’s magical winter scapes make Big Sky the perfect winter destination! 

• Visitors Center Address: 88 Ousel Falls Rd Unit A1, Big Sky, MT.
• Average temperatures – 0 to -13 degrees
• Exploring the scenic Ousel Falls Trailhead, discovering the frozen waterfall, and stopping for a picnic!
• Have a shopping day exploring the upscale and unique boutiques in the town center.
• Having beginner skiing lessons at Big Sky Resort. 

5. Miami, Florida

Miami is known for its sun-kissed sandy beaches, humming beach bars, and opulent At-Deco-style hotels, and I love this fun city!

While this vibrant city is a popular year-round destination, this month is a cost-effective time to visit the ever-exuberant Miami as it is off-peak – so not only will you miss the busy crowds of families and spring-breakers you can make the most of many attractions and fabulously extravagant hotels for a more budget-friendly price.

Also, Miami’s sub-tropical climate means that whilst other states find themselves in the depths of winter, the pastel-coloured streets of Florida’s most Instagrammable city are still abuzz with activity. 

I’d recommend strolling down the famous Ocean Drive, visiting museums such as the Vizcaya Museum and Perez Art Museum , historic sites, clubs, and casinos, and then staying at one of its fabulous hotels—the options are endless!

• Visitors Center Address: 530 17 th St, Miami Beach, FL 33139
• Average temperature – 23 degrees
• Going on a hop-on-hop-off sightseeing bus tour and explore the city’s attractions.
• Discovering the Night Garden, a spectacular botanical garden to visit during the winter season, which was filled with trees, scavenger hunts, and dandelion flower fields.
• People-watching and then going swimming at Miami Beach. I loved the Art Deco-style lifeguard towers! 

6. Hunting Island State Park, South Carolina

Hunting Island is a 5,000-acre secluded, semi-tropical barrier island 15 miles east of Beaufort, South Carolina. Known for its pristine beaches, maritime forests, historic lighthouse, and exclusive nature center, Hunting Island State Park attracts more than a million visitors each year.

It is also home to the only publicly accessible lighthouse in the state, and I’d highly recommend a visit!

The island is also home to a saltwater lagoon, an ocean inlet, and a fishing pier, and I’d also recommend camping to make the most of the beautiful oceanside location.

The warm sea temperatures, even this month, make it a great time to visit the island and enjoy swimming in its alluring lagoon.

• Visitor’s Center Address: 713 Craven St, Beaufort, SC 29902
• Average temperature – 13 degrees
• Climbing the 167 spiral steps to the top of the Hunting Island Lighthouse and enjoying the picturesque view overlooking the coast and nearby islands.
• Taking an evening stroll along the Hunting Island campground and admiring the beautiful starry skies.
• Exploring the lush greenery along the exotic island’s coastal barrier on several trails.

7. Heavenly, the border of California and Nevada 

On the southern shores of Lake Tahoe, you will find the aptly named Heavenly, one of the world’s biggest ski resorts. It offers amazing lake views as you ascend or descend its pristine slopes.

This extraordinary ski resort is known for its unparalleled natural beauty, extensive range of terrain parks, mogul runs, untracked slopes, and fun après-ski scene, which I highly recommend sampling! 

Besides skiing and boarding, the mountains offer adventure activities, including zip lines, tube runs, and gondola rides. I personally think the after-dark, off-the-slope fun is equally exciting, and so do many others, as it draws crowds from the local area and from all over the US! 

As with most ski resorts, the best time to ski is this month, after the holidays, when the crowds have lessened, and the slopes have had time to build up a thick layer of snow topped with fluffy powder that continues to fall throughout the month.

• Visitor Center Address: Explore Tahoe Visitor Center 4114 Lake Tahoe Blvd, South Lake Tahoe
• Average temperature – 8 to -2 degrees

My personal highlights…

• Experiencing a unique and thrilling ride through the snow-covered forests on the Mountain Coaster.
• Partying with the locals at Unbuckle Apres Ski Party, which had a lively atmosphere, awesome DJs and great cocktails at 9,150 feet high! 
• Enjoy the Insta-worthy views at the observation tower before taking one of the epic runs back to the resort.

8. Brunswick & Golden Isles, Georgia

Nestled along Georgia’s Atlantic coast, Golden Isles comprise the city of Brunswick and the barrier islands of St. Simons Island, Sea Island, Little St. Simons Island, and Jekyll Island.

The Golden Isles are filled with gorgeous marshlands and beaches, spotted with small islands called hammocks.

The magnificent landscape includes stretches of sandy beaches to barrier islands. I love the breathtaking views, historical landmarks, museums, art galleries and long, wide golf courses. The accommodation options range from cosy inns to luxury resorts, so there is plenty for everyone’s budget.

Throw in some of that unparalleled southern hospitality, and personally I think it’s winter break perfection! 

• Visitor Center Address: 2017 Lee St, Brunswick, GA 31520
• Average temperature – 18 degrees
• Catching a show and enjoying some entertainment at the historic Ritz Theatre in the Old Town.
• Exploring the art galleries and interesting museums. 
• Spending a night camping at Jekyll Island Campground, I loved gazing at the unpolluted starry skies here!

9. Payette National Forest, Idaho

Based in central-western Idaho , the Payette National Forest comprises over 2.3 million acres of peaceful natural beauty for you to explore and offers a fantastic alternative to the bigger-name ski resorts like Aspen.

With over 300 inches of snow annually, Payette is known for its extensive winter activities. On-slope activities include snowmobiling, skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, and many more recreational experiences.

The area boasts 500 miles of well-maintained, groomed snowmobile trails that continue to increase in number and popularity. It also has 19,000 acres of elevated terrain ideal for backcountry skiing and snowboarding, which I highly recommend. 

• Visitors Center Address: 500 N Mission St, McCall 83638
• Average temperature – minus 1 to minus 16 degrees 
• Taking beginner snowboarding lessons!
• Going on a snowmobile ride and admiring the stunning views.
• Learning about the county’s history and native tribes at Payette County Museum.

10. Kailua Kona, Hawaii Big Island

Kailua-Kona is a seaside town on the west coast of Hawaii Island, where the western slopes of the Hualālai volcano meet the ocean. This gorgeous island boasts blue skies and sunny, dry weather all year round.

While summers can get extremely hot, this month’s warm temperatures (around 80F) present the perfect opportunity to enjoy its sugary, soft beaches.

The island has gorgeous sandy beaches, so I highly recommend sunbathing, snorkeling, and swimming to make the most of these. Laid-back vibes, all-inclusive resorts, five-star spas, and world-class golf courses await. 

South Kona is filled with lush forests and renowned for its Kona coffee, so I suggest walking through some of its unspoiled green areas and visiting its expansive coffee farms. I would also recommend visiting the historical Hawaiian landmarks, local farmers’ markets, boutiques, restaurants, and bars.

This is one of the warmest places in The States this month, so it’s an excellent choice for winter sun! 

• Visitors Center Address: Big Island Guide 73-4318 Keokeo St, Kailua Kona, HI 96740
• Average temperature  – 27 degrees
• Taking a tour to see two of the world’s most active volcanoes at the National Park.
• Discovering the unique and beautiful Punaluu Black Sand Beach after grabbing some picnic food at the Punalu’u Bake Shop.
• Visiting the famous Akaka Falls, which stands at 442 feet high, and I found it by following an easy and very scenic hiking trail. 

11. Alta & Snowbird, Utah

A picturesque ski area in Salt Lake County, Alta is part of the imposing Wasatch Mountains of Utah. It is filled with a wide array of slopes, making it ideal for every level of skier. Alta averages 550 inches of snow yearly, so the season is long and varied.

Snowbird is world-famous, and I believe it’s one of those ‘must-ski’ destinations, and handily, it’s located just one mile from Alta. It has an all-year-round ski season, which lasts over 200 days.

This month, heavy snowfall covers the top of an already thick covering in Alta and Snowbird. It also has its fair share of bluebird days, and I always appreciate the clear, stunning views as I head up and down the ski lift!

• Visitors Center Address: 9260 E Lodge Dr, Snowbird, UT 84092
• Phone: (801) 933-2222
• Average temperature – 3 degrees
• Indulging in a luxury massage at the The Cliff Spa.
• Experiencing thrilling helicopter skiing on a fresh powder day, which was truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience! 
• Going on a guided ski tour and discovering the tranquil backcountry trails.

12. White Sands National Monument, New Mexico

As its name might suggest, this place is filled with stunning, seemingly endless stretches of bright white sand – white enough to rival even the freshest snowfall! The region’s dune field is very dynamic, with the most active dunes moving at a rate of up to 30 feet per year.

I would highly recommend seeing the largest gypsum dune field, the tall, glistening range of white dunes in Tularosa Basin. This area is home to over 800 unique species of fauna and flora that incredibly survive in these inhospitable conditions.

I personally think the region’s natural geology and the incredible animals make this destination uniquely intriguing. Summers are too hot, so winter is the best time to visit White Sands National Monument.

• Visitor Center Address: 19955 US-70 W, Alamogordo, NM 88310
• Phone: (575) 479-6124
• Average temperature – 14 degrees
• Photographing the white gypsum dunes, which cover 275 square miles of land and are the largest in the world.
• Sledging down the dunes was fun (remember to cover your face if you try it too)! 
• Spending two nights camping under the unbelievably clear starry skies at an on-site campsite (there are ten in total).

13. Death Valley, California

Death Valley is a desert valley in Eastern California that borders the Great Basin Desert and is one of the hottest places on Earth.

One of the hottest, driest, and lowest national parks and places in the world, Death Valley has unbearably blistering summer temperatures. So I recommend visiting in the wintertime instead!

The two exclusive hotels here offer distinct experiences, either relaxing or adventurous. Both have swimming pools and organized tours.

I suggest spotting its unique wildlife, such as desert bighorn sheep, lizards, and tiny pupfish living in pools saltier than seawater. I also highly recommend stargazing free from light pollution in this mesmerizing landscape at night! It’s a seriously unique travel experience! 

• Visitor Center Address: 328 Greenland Blvd, Death Valley, CA 92328
• Phone: (760) 786-3200
• Average temperature – 19 degrees
• Taking a journey along Artists Drive and discovering the Artists Palette whilst admiring the pink granite and magnificent rock formations.
• Enjoying a hike through the Golden Canyon, which offered some seriously Insta-worthy views.
• Catching a sunrise at Zabriskie Point, one of the most iconic places in Death Valley. The panoramic views were stunning!

14. San Diego, California

I honestly think San Diego is an excellent destination to visit this month because, while it is cooler compared with other months, it still offers a great escape from cold, dreary weather. It boasts an almost picture-perfect, year-round Mediterranean-like climate with sunshine and soft ocean winds.

I recommend exploring its beautiful beaches, family-friendly parks, world-class restaurants, trendy bars, and excellent artistic and cultural offerings, which are especially enjoyable with thinned-out crowds during the winter.

I’d also recommend choosing from various activities such as sunbathing, surfing, kayaking, and bodyboarding; they’re all great fun and will immerse you in the Californian lifestyle!

Other attractions I’d suggest visiting include the Immense Balboa Park, the lively Gaslamp Quarter, the Japanese Botanical Gardens, Old Town San Diego, art galleries, museums, and gardens.

• Visitor Center Address: 996 N Harbor Dr, San Diego, CA 92101
• Taking a stroll around San Diego Botanic Garden on the 4-mile-long trails, which took me past a stunning array of flora and fauna. 
• Visiting the Old Town and sampling the tasty tacos at the Mexican restaurants.
• Exploring on the hop-on-hop-off bus to explore all the city’s main attractions.

15. Mt Baker, Washington

Mt. Baker Ski Area is an epic ski resort in Washington with unbeatable snow levels of up to 17 meters per season, extreme inbounds terrain, and vastly accessible backcountry. I personally think the fresh powder snow in high volumes makes Mt. Baker an excellent attraction for skiers and snowboarders.

Since Mt Baker is not as well known as some of its comparable ski resorts, it’s generally less crowded, making it ideal for anyone looking for discreet ski time away from the rush.

Along with its groomed ski trails, I highly recommend participating in the fun winter sports here, like snowmobiling, snow hikes, sledging, and exploring the spellbinding old-growth forest! 

• Visitor Center Address: 7509 Mount Baker Hwy, Maple Falls, WA 98266
• Average temperature – minus 9 to minus 14 degrees
• Exploring the incredible area by snowshoeing. 
• Trying the tasty microbrews at North Fork Beer Shrine.

16. South Padre Island & Port Isabel, Texas

South Padre Island is a resort town on a barrier island filled with soft beaches and calm waters, located off the coast of Texas. While summers can get too hot, and spring attracts large crowds, I personally think winter, with pleasant temperatures between 55°F – 75°F, is the best time to visit South Padre Island.

I’d highly recommend visiting the South Padre Island Birding and Nature Centre, a five-story watchtower with marvelous views of migrating birds. 

A short trip away is Port Isabel, which is separated from the shores of South Padre Island by the 2.6-mile-long Queen Isabella Causeway. I suggest a magical dolphin spotting cruise, strolling along Laguna Madre Nature Trail, or a picnic in Isla Blanca Park.

With its pleasant subtropical climate and rich culture and history, I honestly think it’s no surprise that South Padre Island is a favorite winter destination for many – it’s a dreamy gem!

• Visitor Center Address: 600 Padre Blvd, South Padre Island, TX 78597
• Average temperature – 21 degrees
• Visiting one of the most Instagrammable spots, Holiday Sandcastle Village, and seeing incredible life-size sculptures.
• Taking a trip to the entertainment district and trying out the Ferris wheel, mini-golf and go-karts.
• Enjoying a relaxed stroll along the beach whilst listening to the serene sounds of the ocean.

17. Moosehead Lake, Maine

This deep, cold-water lake in the Longfellow Mountains is the largest mountain lake in the eastern United States.

I highly recommend cozying up in a rustic cabin by a serene frozen lake surrounded by picturesque scenery. It’s pure cosy bliss, especially if you’re on a romantic break.

The adventure activities on offer here include winter hikes, snowmobiling, and snowshoe trails by day, campfires, and stargazing into the clear northern skies by night.

And if you’re still after more, you might even see the elusive Northern Lights on your trip. I didn’t see them on my trip, but it’s possible!

In this month, the nearby Squaw Mountain is also open to snowboarders and skiers as well.

• Visitor Center Address: 480 Moosehead Lake Rd, Greenville, ME 04441
• Average temperatures – minus 6 to minus 18 degrees
• Starting the day with a hearty breakfast around the lake, ready for a full day of snowy activities.
• Taking a snowmobile ride along the Moosehead Trail, which offered an expansive and scenic range of 160 miles.
• Going cross-country skiing around the lake and experiencing the stunning scenery.

18. Dry Tortugas National Park, Florida

Situated in the Gulf of Mexico, west of Key West,  Dry Tortugas National Park comprises of seven islands with protected coral reefs. Here, you can escape the cold winters and relish the warm Floridian sunshine all year round.

As the name suggests, the Dry Tortugas have a dry winter season (November-March) with little or no rainfall, which is not as hot and humid as its summer months.

I personally think January is a great time to visit because the warm temperatures allow for snorkeling, sunbathing on the beaches, and enjoying other water sports like kayaking and boating without being too hot and humid.

Also, with fewer visitors, you have a much better chance of spotting rare birds that call this area home, including the Brown Noddy, Sooty Tern, Brown Pelicans, magnificent frigatebirds, and Black-bellied Plovers.

My personal favorite islands are the Loggerhead Key, which has an iconic lighthouse and sea turtles, and Garden Key, which has gorgeous beaches and the historic 19th-century Fort Jefferson.

• Visitor Center Address: Florida Keys, FL 33040
• Phone: (305) 294-7009
• Average temperatures – 24 degrees
• Exploring the historic Fort Jefferson which offered stunning views overlooking the crystal-clear waters and surrounding islands.
• Experiencing some of the best snorkeling in Florida at the Moat Wall and South Coaling Dock Ruins.
• Taking a walk around the lush Bush Key.

19. Tucson, Arizona

Tucson has been dubbed the ‘City of Gastronomy’ by UNESCO, and rightly so!

This amazing city offers some of the most remarkable restaurants, cafes, bars, and breweries in the Southwest – and so unsurprisingly, Tucson’s downtown is a thriving hub of activity and fun. 

Apart from its rich food scene, Tucson offers spectacular natural beauty and is surrounded by national parks and pine forests, such as Saguaro National Park and Mount Lemmon, a colossal cave, open-air museums and gardens, and an iconic old town. I would highly recommend exploring all of them! 

Summer gets very hot, so I highly recommend visiting during the winter months instead.

• Visitor Center Address: Southern Tucson Visitor Center, 115 N. Church Ave. Tucson, AZ 85701
• Average temperatures – 19 degrees
• Taking an underground tour at Kartchner Caverns State Park and discovering the mesmerizing cave formations.
• Visiting Pima Air and Space Museum, the world’s largest aerospace museum which was home to over 300 aircraft.
• Playing a round of golf in the Tuscan sunshine.

20. Fairbanks, Alaska

One of Alaska’s largest cities, Fairbanks, is situated at a latitude that makes it perfect for witnessing the famed A urora Borealis.

Your chances of seeing the Northern lights are higher this month, but the crowds are fewer due to the very cold weather. As it’s officially off-season, January offers much better flights, hotels, and tour deals.

I think it’s a magical place with serene mountains, pristine rivers, and lakes teeming with wildlife, so make sure you spot wildlife here!

Experience sunrises and sunsets that last a long time (typically two hours), and this is when the sky’s made up of a kaleidoscope of brilliant oranges and blues.

There is also an array of winter activities on offer, and I suggest sledging, snowmobiling, snow hiking, and visiting the nearby Chena hot springs! 

• Visitor Center Address: 101 Dunkel St, Fairbanks, AK 99701
• Average temperatures – minus 8 to minus 26 degrees
• Experiencing the sky coming alive on a Northern Lights tour and watching the lights shimmering above me – an experience I’ll never forget!
• Discovering the creative and incredible sculptures at the Ice Museum.
• Relaxing at the beautiful Chena Hot Springs Resort, which is run off geothermal energy.

Becky Moore - Owner, writer and photographer My first true adventure began as a six-month voyage around South East Asia as a fresh-faced backpacker and ever since I’ve lived a semi-nomadic existence, clocking up visits to over 40 countries. I’m a lover of US Road Trips, deserted beaches bathed in the warm glow of a sunset, Cuban mojitos, travel destinations far away from the tourist crowds, and all things Scandinavian – from cloudberry liquors to Nordic noirs. When not wandering the world and running Global Grasshopper, you’ll find me walking my ex-Athens street dog in leafy South West London, strolling around the Brighton Lanes on random day trips, hunting for photogenic landscapes or daydreaming about my favourite places; Havana, Copenhagen, Italy, Borneo, Finland, Greece, Berlin, Laos, California and the surreal and beautiful landscapes of a wintry Iceland. Hotel Reviewing Experience - published hotel review in the 52 Sleeps Book organised by Laterooms.com and Lonely Planet. Asked by over 12 tourist boards and many high-profile travel brands to formally review hotels including Germany Tourist Board , Canada Tourist Board , Eviivo , France.fr , Visitoostende.be , Live Riga and Queensland Tourist Board . Also travelled around the world scouting out and reviewing all the most unique hotels in the world, check out our Instagram page for photos . I’ve also been quoted in Forbes, National Geographic , The Times , LA Weekly , Yahoo Travel , Huffington Post , Business Insider , Thrillist , British Airways Magazine, Entrepreneur , Daily Express , Wanderlust , Telegraph Travel, Daily Mail and Metro . Winner of Travel Blog of the Year . Find me on Linkedin or Facebook .

1 thought on “20 Awesome Places to Visit in January USA”

Zion National Park is so high up on my bucket list, it looks so beautiful! Hopefully one day I will get there 🙂 Great post, thanks for sharing Becky!

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Protect Your Trip »

Best places to visit in january 2024.

January is an ideal time to travel for those needing to escape winter's chill. While travel deals may be limited during this time, you will skirt humidity and the rainy season in popular warm weather destinations. And if you're one for embracing the season's snowy offerings, this is the perfect time to take advantage of the powder in mountainous regions north of the equator. U.S. News weighed these factors and more across an array of different destinations – from the rugged to the refined – to come up with the best places to visit in January. Vote for your favorite destinations below to have a say in next year's list. 

Argentine Patagonia

Railay beach, st. kitts & nevis, british virgin islands, hawai'i volcanoes national park, serengeti national park.

As January brings some of the warmest temperatures and the most daylight hours of the year to Argentine Patagonia, it's no surprise that this is one of the most popular months to visit. Conditions will be ideal for kayaking or rafting on the glacier-fed lakes of the Lake District, located in the northern part of Patagonia, or taking a boat cruise to Perito Moreno Glacier in Los Glaciares National Park. Plus, the weather will be warm enough (though still brisk) for a trip to Ushuaia, the southernmost city in the world and an excellent base for hiking in Tierra del Fuego.

If sun, sand and a little adventure are requirements for your post-holiday escape, Railay Beach is a great place to spend your next vacation. January is one of the driest months of the year on this Thai peninsula, so you're likely to encounter sun-soaked days of beaching and kayaking while taking in views of the iconic limestone cliffs. If you're up for more action, this area is known for its rock climbing, and you'll also find several caves and lagoons to explore. Just be sure to book early as accommodations can fill up quickly during the dry season.

Venture to this Swiss ski town during the winter months for a scenic getaway. One of Zermatt's most impressive sights is its world-renowned Matterhorn. For breathtaking views, take a cable car to Matterhorn Glacier Paradise, Europe’s highest mountain station. Here, travelers can explore the attraction’s Glacier Palace, an enchanting attraction with ice tunnels and ever-changing ice sculptures. Adrenaline junkies can also gaze at this jaw-dropping natural wonder during a helicopter tour, or they can try hiking or skiing one of the area's 37 other mountains. Zermatt itself is car-free, but visitors can get around on foot or bike, or by using the town's electric vehicles.

Come January, nothing sounds better than tropical weather and some of the best beaches in the Caribbean . But once you arrive, you'll find that these islands have even more to offer. This two-island nation boasts prime sailing conditions, blue waters perfect for snorkeling and lush forests and volcanoes for those who prefer to explore on land. Plus, if you're ringing in the new year here, you'll catch the closing events for the islands' biggest festival – the St. Kitts and Nevis National Carnival. Deemed Sugar Mas by the locals, this cultural celebration makes this one of the sweetest times of year to visit.

Those looking to get away from chilly winter weather should consider a relaxing getaway to the British Virgin Islands. Average temperatures hover between the high 70s and low 80s this time of year, making it easy to enjoy the many outdoor activities that the four main islands have to offer. With ferries regularly traveling to and from the various islands, visitors can sunbathe on the sandy shores of Cane Garden Bay on the capital island of Tortola one day and explore The Baths on Virgin Gorda the next.

Home to two of the world's most active volcanoes, Mauna Loa and Kilauea, Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park appeals to adventurous travelers. Hike or drive along Crater Rim Drive to see stunning views of the Kilauea caldera, or attend an educational ranger program to learn more about the park's history. January is Volcano Awareness Month on the Big Island, and the park holds several events during this time to promote the understanding and respect of volcanoes. Keep in mind, certain areas of the park may be closed due to seismic activity, so check the park website prior to arrival.

An African safari may not be the first destination you think of when planning a winter getaway, but a trip to Tanzania's Serengeti National Park should be on your radar. January is one of the best times to travel here, as it is when numerous wildebeest breed during their Great Migration throughout the park. To catch a glimpse of this can't-miss natural phenomenon, which is one of the largest herd movements in the world, base yourself in Southern Serengeti or the northern part of the adjacent Ngorongoro Conservation Area.

If your heart is set on a winter wonderland, Whistler is the spot for you. This Canadian ski destination averages around 80 inches of snowfall in January, so you're bound to have some fresh powder when you hit the slopes, snowmobile or snowshoe. You'll also have plenty of opportunity to embrace the elements while you ice skate at the Village at Whistler Olympic Plaza or ice fish on serene lakes. When you're ready to warm up, enjoy Whistler's après-ski scene with craft beer at a pub, or cozy up by the fire at one of the area's iconic chalets.

Take a trip Down Under for an unforgettable outdoor adventure. In January, this Australian island offers its warmest weather of the year – average highs sit in the low 70s – thanks to its location in the Southern Hemisphere. Much of Tasmania is protected in national parks and wildlife reserves, offering nature lovers plenty of opportunities to hike, camp and spot wildlife. Travelers can also head to the capital city of Hobart to explore its food and wine offerings or visit the Mona, a unique underground art museum with its own brewery, winery and restaurant.

Boasting the world's tallest building (Burj Khalifa), the world's largest shopping center (the Dubai Mall) and the world's longest urban zip line (the XLine Dubai), this United Arab Emirates city has plenty to offer travelers come January. Average temperatures this time of year hover around the mid-70s, which is ideal for lounging on popular La Mer beach, strolling through the whimsical Dubai Miracle Garden or floating down Dubai Creek on a water taxi (called an abra). If you need to get out of the sun, consider touring the ornate Jumeirah Mosque or observing marine life at the Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo.

Located in the Andalusian region of southern Spain, Seville boasts a number of can't-miss attractions (think: the Real Alcázar and Plaza de España). You'll also want to save time for a leisurely stroll down the winding streets of Barrio Santa Cruz, Seville's former Jewish quarter. Although weather this time of year is chilly for Spain (temperatures typically hover in the 50s and 60s), this is still much warmer than many other European destinations. Plus, travelers who visit in early January will be able to experience Three Kings Day, a celebration commemorating the day that the three wise men visited baby Jesus.

January is one of the driest times of the year in this tropical Central American country. That means it's much easier to enjoy Costa Rica's vast array of outdoor offerings and wildlife-viewing opportunities, such as the Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Reserve and the Caño Negro Wildlife Refuge. What's more, a number of culturally significant festivals take place in January, including the Palmares Fiestas, which features everything from bullfights to outdoor concerts. Looking to catch some waves? This is also a great time of year to go surfing in Costa Rica, especially for beginners.

If you're seeking a cheap tropical vacation that's closer to home, Cancún is just south enough to offer an easily accessible warm weather getaway. Though January is one of the coolest months in this Mexican city, average temperatures typically remain in the high 70s and low 80s, and there is minimal humidity, which makes this a perfect time to visit. Just be prepared for others to have the same idea and book your trip early. When you're not defrosting on the beach, you can fill your days with a number of day trips and tours to must-visit ruins, nature reserves and nearby islands.

Tulum, Mexico, is an excellent destination for travelers who want to unwind after the busy holiday season. Visitors can relax post-Christmas by visiting one of the city's many yoga and wellness centers. More adventurous vacationers will enjoy exploring Tulum's ancient Mayan ruins, which are some of the best-preserved ruins in Mexico. Those who'd rather swim and soak up some sun can venture to one of the city's cenotes (sinkholes that are filled with water) or a beautiful white sand beach like Playa Paraíso.

Affectionately nicknamed "The Pink City" thanks to its blush-colored sandstone buildings – which were painted pink in 1876 as a welcome to Prince Albert, the Prince of Wales – Jaipur is ideal for a January vacation. In contrast to this Indian city's sweltering summer temperatures, which frequently reach the triple digits, January enjoys comfortable weather in the mid-70s. Take advantage of the mild conditions by joining a guided walking or biking tour, where you'll get an in-depth look into the city's rich history and culture. Other can't-miss activities include exploring Jaipur's magnificent palaces, from the iconic Hawa Mahal to the sprawling Amber Palace.

Vote to Add these Destinations to the Rankings

San Miguel de Allende

Death Valley National Park

Anna Maria Island

You may be interested in.

Best Places to Visit in December 2024

Best Places to Visit in February 2024

Best Places to Visit in Winter

Best Cheap Winter Vacations

Best Winter Family Vacations

Best Ski Vacations in the World

If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content.

Recommended

The 18 Best Napa Valley Wineries to Visit in 2024

Lyn Mettler|Sharael Kolberg April 23, 2024

The 25 Best Beaches on the East Coast for 2024

Timothy J. Forster|Sharael Kolberg April 19, 2024

The 50 Best Hotels in the USA 2024

Christina Maggitas February 6, 2024

The 32 Most Famous Landmarks in the World

Gwen Pratesi|Timothy J. Forster February 1, 2024

9 Top All-Inclusive Resorts in Florida for 2024

Gwen Pratesi|Amanda Norcross January 5, 2024

24 Top All-Inclusive Resorts in the U.S. for 2024

Erin Evans January 4, 2024

26 Top Adults-Only All-Inclusive Resorts for 2024

Zach Watson December 28, 2023

Solo Vacations: The 36 Best Places to Travel Alone in 2024

Lyn Mettler|Erin Vasta December 22, 2023

26 Cheap Beach Vacations for Travelers on a Budget

Kyle McCarthy|Sharael Kolberg December 4, 2023

The 50 Most Beautiful White Sand Beaches in the World

Holly Johnson December 1, 2023

The best US state parks in each state to visit in 2022

Jun 13, 2022 • 18 min read

Chugach State Park is one of the four largest state parks in the USA © Jonathan Mauer / Getty Images

National parks like Bryce Canyon and the Smoky's  are stunning, but there's something a little personal about a state park.

Whether its right in your backyard or you have to drive hours just to get to it, state parks are like that beloved hometown sports team that you'll always root for.

Here are our favorite 50 state parks in the USA. 

Alabama – Gulf Shores State Park 

With its warm, light-blue waters, white sand beaches and endless horizons stretching over the Gulf of Mexico, the town of Gulf Shores represents a particular kind of oceanside fantasy. There are two miles of beach here, as well as a nature center (9am to 4pm Monday to Friday), a dog park and roughly 25 miles of hiking and cycling trails – keep an eye peeled for gators.

Alaska – Chugach State Park 

This stunning 495,000-acre park is one of the four largest state parks in the US. Located in southcentral Alaska, this state park has a rugged shoreline, big lakes, ice fields and massive glaciers. On the western side of the park is the Chugach Mountain Range (seven miles from Anchorage) and on the southern part of the park is the Turnagain Arm. 

Introducing Alaska’s national parks

Arizona – Kartchner Caverns State Park 

This drippy subterranean castle was 330 million years in the making, yet it remained Arizona’s best-kept secret until it opened as a park in 1999. On 90-minute educational tours through this underground Gothic fantasyland, you might hear the squeak of migrating bats in the Big Room cave (October–April) or feel like a royal troll in the column-lined Throne Room. Reservations are recommended. It’s also a designated International Dark Sky Park. 

Arkansas – Crater of Diamonds State Park 

An average of 600 diamonds are found each year at one of the only places in the world where visitors can search for real diamonds and keep what they find. This park in Murfreesboro , Arkansas, boasts several notable finds including the over 40-carat Uncle Sam, the largest diamond ever uncovered in the US. 

Explore Arizona's natural beauty beyond the Grand Canyon on this epic road trip

California – Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park

Famous for some of the world's best virgin redwood groves and unspoiled coastline, this 14,000-acre section of Redwood National & State Parks has spectacular scenic drives and 75 miles of mainly shady hiking trails, many of which are excellent for children. Kids of all ages will enjoy the magnificent herd of elk here, which can generally be spied grazing at the Elk Prairie, signposted from the highway; the best times to be sure of seeing the elk are early morning and around sunset.

Colorado – Pearl Lake State Park 

A glorious spot for camping and canoeing, this small alpine lake, located in the mountains north of Steamboat Springs, backs up to aspen and evergreen forests, and has some excellent lake-front campsites ($20). Try to get a lower campsite bordering the lake; numbers 24 to 32 are best. They have two yurts ($90) here too, plus a short trail to Coulton Creek.

Introducing Colorado's National Parks

Connecticut – Kent Falls State Park 

Given Connecticut’s size, it makes sense that the state doesn’t have parks on the scale of, say, Yellowstone. Its small ones, however, have their charm. Kent Falls , with its cascades tumbling into the Housatonic River, is in the pretty Litchfield Hills of northwestern Connecticut. Part of the southern Berkshires, it’s a prime area to enjoy New England fall foliage. 

Delaware – Delaware Seashore State Park 

South of Rehoboth Beach, this state park is a barrier island stretching for six miles with Rehoboth Bay on one side and the Atlantic on the other. The bay’s calm waters are ideal for windsurfing, while six trails can be explored on foot, by bike or on horseback. The park’s Big Chill Beach Club serves casual fare and cocktails. 

10 of the most spectacular waterfalls at Yellowstone National Park and how to see them

Florida – Cayo Costa State Park 

Accessible only by boat, Southwest Florida’s Cayo Costa Island is almost entirely preserved as a 2500-acre state park. While its pale, ash-colored sand may not be as fine as that of other beaches, its idyllic solitude and bathtub-warm waters are without peer. Bring a snorkel and mask to help scour sandbars for shells and conchs.

Georgia – Providence Canyon State Park 

Painted a rainbow of oranges, pinks, reds and whites by the exposed rock, 16 gorges comprise the “Little Grand Canyon,” as it’s called. Created thanks to erosion-causing farming techniques in the 19th century, today it’s one of Georgia’s natural wonders . The 1003-acre park is located in Stewart County in Lumpkin, Georgia. 

Aquatic thrills in coastal Florida

Hawaii – Waimea Canyon State Park 

Waimea Canyon is a gargantuan chasm of ochre and blood-red lava rock is quite simply one of the world’s natural wonders. At 10 miles long and over 3000ft deep, this gouge in the land is so spectacular it has been popularly nicknamed the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific.” Flowing through the canyon is Waimea River, Kauaʻi ’s longest river and a great spot for adventures on the water. 

Idaho – Bruneau Dunes State Park 

Climb and dune-sled in Bruneau at this 470ft phenomenon, the tallest single-standing sandhill in North America. Camp or stay in a cabin overnight and take advantage of the observatory’s telescope collection and the pristine night sky. 

Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park is still a hot destination

Illinois – Starved Rock State Park 

One of the state’s most popular natural retreats is famous for its canyons, bluffs and waterfalls, which you can explore via 13 miles of trails and 133 campsites dotted throughout this 2630-acre preserve on the Illinois River. Get out and roam the surrounding historic communities of LaSalle and Ottawa, or book a room at the 1930s-era Starved Rock Lodge in Oglesby and have dinner under the stars on the lodge’s back patio. 

Indiana – Indiana Dunes State Park 

The state park is a 2100-acre, shoreside pocket within the Indiana Dunes National Park it’s located at the end of Hwy 49, near Chesterton. It has more amenities than the rest of the lakeshore, but also more regulation and crowds (plus the vehicle entry fee). Wintertime brings out the cross-country skiers; summertime brings out the hikers. Seven trails zigzag over the landscape; No. 8  goes up Mt Tom and rewards with Chicago skyline views.

Iowa – Backbone State Park 

Iowa’s oldest state park is also one of its most beautiful, with plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities including camping, canoeing, beach volleyball, rock climbing and trout fishing. The heavily wooded area of rocky terrain and forested bluffs in Dundee is most well known for its steep ridge, nicknamed the Devil’s Backbone, and a popular hike along the Backbone Trail. 

Kansas – Cedar Bluff State Park and Reservoir 

Located along the shorelines of the Cedar Bluff Reservoir, the 1000-acre area is outfitted with boat ramp facilities, campgrounds, BMX track and designated areas for swimming and fishing.

This US national park is full of hot springs - and it's turning 100 years old

Kentucky – Cumberland Falls State Resort Park  

Cumberland Falls is one of the few places in the world to see a moonbow, a rainbow that forms in the water's mist at night. The park website has dates for when the phenomenon occurs each month. A one-mile round-trip trail takes you to the falls, a 125ft-wide curtain of water that's pretty dramatic anytime.

Louisiana – Chicot State Park  

A wonderful place to access the natural beauty of Cajun country. The excellent arboretum is fun for kids and informative for adults, and deserves enormous accolades for its open, airy design. Miles of trails extend into the nearby forests, cypress swamps and wetlands. If you can, stay for early evening – the sunsets over the Spanish-moss-draped trees that fringe Lake Chicot are superb.

The complete guide to Mammoth Cave National Park

Maine – Baxter State Park 

Set in the remote forests of northern Maine, Baxter centers on Mt Katahdin (5267ft), Maine’s tallest mountain and the northern terminus of the 2190-mile Appalachian Trail. This vast 209,000-acre park is maintained in a wilderness state: no paved roads, no electricity and no running water (bring your own or plan on purifying stream water). There’s a good chance you’ll see moose, deer and black bears.

Maryland – Patapsco Valley State Park 

The Patapsco River Valley is the defining geographic feature of the region, running through central Maryland to the Chesapeake Bay. Gorgeous Patapsco Valley State Park – one of the oldest in the state – runs for 32 miles near Ellicott City and encompasses a whopping 170 miles of trails, especially prized by mountain bikers. 

Massachusetts – Skinner State Park 

This mountaintop park , at the summit of Mt Holyoke, peaks out at a rather modest-sounding height of 942ft. But that's high enough to earn the visitor panoramic views of the Connecticut River and its oxbow curve, the fertile valley and the distant smudge of Mt Greylock to the west. A 1.5-mile road to the top is open to hikers year-round and to vehicles from May to October. The park is north of South Hadley off MA 47 in Hadley.

Acadia National Park is introducing a timed reservation system for visitors

Michigan – Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park 

Michigan’s seemingly endless bounty of natural beauty continues in this off-the-beaten-path wilderness in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula , where small mountains sprawled out across vast virgin wilderness reveal spectacular fall foliage and myriad small inland lakes, including the popular Lake of the Clouds. Caution: bears are common in “the Porkies.”

Minnesota – Itasca State Park 

In local highlight Itasca State Park, you can walk across the tiny headwaters of the Mississippi itself before it sets out on its 2522-mile journey to the Gulf of Mexico, which is pretty wild. Wade in the knee-deep flow and hop over a couple of stepping stones, then boast you strode over the Father of Waters. 

Experience the Great Lakes on one epic road trip

Mississippi – Tishomingo State Park 

Named for a Chickasaw chief, this park in Tishomingo offers camping among the evocative, moss-covered sandstone cliffs and rock formations, fern gullies and waterfalls of Bear Creek Canyon. It’s a special oasis, once utilized by the Chickasaw and their Paleo-Indian ancestors.  

Missouri – Elephant Rocks State Park 

With a little imagination (read: squinting), the hefty pink granite boulders that steal the show in this state park look like a train of circus elephants. Located in southeastern Missouri near Belleview, the park is a geologist’s dream, formed from 1.5-billion-year-old granite. The mile-long, accessible Braille Trail Loop is a great introduction to the terrain, and kids love clambering up and over the rocks.

Museums and more in Missouri: art, history and culture in St Louis and beyond

Montana – Bannack State Park 

Montana is dotted with ghost towns – mining settlements that arose from nothing and whose populations plummeted as soon as nearby deposits were exhausted. Bannack in southwestern Montana is one of the earliest of them and among the best preserved. Once a town of 3000, it was established in 1862 and even served as the territorial capital for a period. 

Nebraska – Fort Robinson State Park 

This old military fort's turbulent past belies its stately appearance today: Crazy Horse was killed here in 1877, “buffalo soldier” African American brigades were formed here and it was a POW camp for Germans. The greater park offers 22,000 acres of panoramic Pine Ridge scenery. Campgrounds are open year-round and there's a seasonal lodge in the old brick barracks. Restored buildings have displays.

50 fun facts about US states to impress your friends  

Nevada – Cathedral Gorge State Park 

Sidling up to the Utah border in eastern Nevada near Panaca, this park enchants with its spectacular cathedral-like spires, starkly eroded bentonite clay cliffs and slot canyons in buff pinks and rust reds. The result of volcanic activity millions of years ago, the formations are best explored on the 4-mile ridge trail. 

New Hampshire – Franconia Notch State Park 

For centuries this park in the White Mountains was the home of the Old Man in the Mountain, a series of cliffs that formed what looked like the profile of a man. The iconic landmark collapsed in 2003 due to natural fissures, but visitors still come to explore a magnificent mountain pass that includes the stunning Flume Gorge and an aerial tramway.

New Jersey – Benjamin T Byrne State Forest 

Over 37,000 acres of peaceful state forest beckon in the New Jersey Pine Barrens between Philadelphia and the Jersey Shore. The trails here pass through the hardwood and Atlantic white cedar swamps, pitch pine lowlands and upland pine and oak forests, which visitors have almost to themselves. 

What it's like to hike among 5000-year-old trees

New Mexico – Navajo Lake State Park  

Home to the second largest lake in New Mexico, this state park is a hot spot for boating and lake-view camping. There are more than four miles of trails and it's a good launchpad for fly fishing on the nearby San Juan River. Stop by the park visitor center for a few exhibits and suggestions for activities. 

New York – Bear Mountain State Park 

The main draw here are the views of the Manhattan skyline from the 1303ft peak (accessible by car), but there's also ice skating in winter and boating and swimming in summer. There are several scenic roads snaking their way past secluded lakes with gorgeous vistas. 

North Carolina – Mount Mitchell State Park 

A major decision awaits visitors to North Carolina’s original state park . Will you drive up Mount Mitchell, the highest peak east of the Mississippi at 6684ft, or will you hike to the top? Make your mind up at the park office, which sits beside a steep 2.2-mile summit trail that typically takes around 1½ hours, one way.

First-timer's guide to Great Smoky Mountains National Park

North Dakota – Fort Abraham Lincoln State Park 

The highlight at this attractive rural park on the west bank of the Missouri is On-a-Slant Indian Village, which has five re-created Mandan earth lodges. The fort, with several replica buildings, was Custer's last stop before the Battle of Little Bighorn. It's seven miles south of Mandan (or about 13 miles from downtown Bismarck). It has extensive hiking trails and summertime tours.

Ohio – Hocking Hills State Park 

Hidden in Hocking County, Hocking Hills State Park is splendid to explore in any season (but especially lovely in autumn), with miles of trails for hiking and biking past waterfalls and gorges. It features several spectacular rock formations, whose gorges and recesses tempt explorers. Old Man’s Cave is a scenic winner for hiking. 

Where to find the USA's 12 newest national parks

Oklahoma – Black Mesa State Park 

Named after the thick coating of black lava rock that covered the area 30 million years ago, this beautiful park in Kenton is ideal for camping, wildlife watching and hiking. Don’t miss the Three Corners marker, where you can stand in Oklahoma, Colorado and New Mexico all at once. 

Oregon – Smith Rock State Park  

No discussion of American sport climbing omits mention of this glorious state park perched atop the rust-red high desert of central Oregon. The region’s walls, gullies, gorges and spires are renowned for advanced climbing opportunities; however, the 1800 marked routes include some easier ascents, and there are hiking trails for those who arrive without chalk and harnesses. 

Pennsylvania – Cherry Springs State Park 

If you think that you need to travel to the West to see the night sky in all its glory, you may be surprised to learn that Pennsylvania has an International Dark Sky Park in the northern part of the state. At Cherry Springs , far from any urban centers, the stars shine brightly, to amateur astronomers’ delight.

Rhode Island – Colt State Park 

Bristol’s Colt State Park is Rhode Island’s most scenic park, with its entire western border fronting Narragansett Bay. The park is fringed by four miles of cycling trails and has more than 400 shaded picnic tables set among 464 acres of groomed fruit trees, flower beds and lush greenery.

The top 10 most visited national parks in the US

South Carolina – Hunting Island State Park 

Camp amidst the tangled maritime forest of this 5000-acre undeveloped barrier island . The beach is as pristine as they come with comfortably warm waters by midsummer. Paddle through the silent, humid marshes, bike the lagoonside trail or climb the long-defunct 1875 lighthouse. So lush and dense is the foliage, the Vietnam War scenes from Forrest Gump were filmed here. No wonder it’s the most visited state park in the state. 

South Dakota – Custer State Park 

Custer State Park boasts some of the best American wildlife viewing outside of Yellowstone, as well as curvaceous mountain drives, serene lakeside retreats and plenty of open range. 

Tennessee – Fall Creek Falls Creek State Park 

Waterfalls crash high and low inside this rugged 26,000-acre park that hugs the craggy surface of the Cumberland Plateau 115 miles southeast of Nashville. The most eye-catching is the park's namesake, the veil-like Fall Creek Falls. Dropping 256ft, it's one of the tallest waterfalls in the east. A 0.4-mile trail drops to its base. 

Texas – Seminole Canyon State Park & Historic Site 

The best art galleries in south-central Texas are right here along the Rio Grande, and their works have been on view for at least 4000 years. This state park (nine miles west of Comstock), is famous for Fate Bell Shelter, a natural canvas of ancient rock art. If the art here were merely decorative, it would be magnificent, but the pictographs are more than just images – they're windows into their creators' daily routines, dreams, hopes and fears.

15 unforgettable experiences in US national parks

Utah – Goblin Valley State Park 

A Salvador Dalí–esque melted-rock fantasy, a valley of giant stone mushrooms, an alien landscape or the results of a cosmological acid trip? No matter what you think the stadium-like valley of stunted hoodoos resembles, one thing’s for sure – the 3654-acre park is just plain fun. A few trails lead from the overlooks down to the valley floor. You can climb down, around and even over the evocative “goblins” (2ft- to 20ft-tall formations).

Vermont – Jamaica State Park 

With trails and campsites directly adjacent to the rushing West River, and hiking access to 125ft Hamilton Falls, this is one of only two riverside state parks  in Vermont. It's especially popular with kayakers and rafters. It's 27 miles north of Brattleboro off VT 30.

Virginia – Belle Isle State Park 

A small state park, Belle Isle boasts picnic areas, boat launches, hiking and biking trails and a host of other well-maintained amenities patrolled by soaring bald eagles. The eponymous on-site Georgian house, built in 1760, feels like a dictionary illustration pasted next to the word “mansion.” Alas, it can only be admired from afar, as it’s privately owned, but the other historic property in the park, the Bel Air House (no fresh princes, sadly), is available for overnight rentals.

7 best US national parks to visit with kids

Washington – Moran State Park  

In 1911 Robert Moran donated seven square miles of his property to create this park on the eastern saddlebag of Orcas Island. The park is dominated by 2409ft Mt Constitution, the archipelago's highest point. On a clear day you can see Mt Rainier, Mt Baker, Vancouver's north shore and a patchwork of tree-carpeted islands floating like emerald jewels on a blue crystalline ocean. To see above the lofty firs, a 53ft observation tower was erected in 1936 by the Civilian Conservation Corp.

5 state parks that rival national park

West Virginia – Coopers Rock State Forest 

  The overlook at Coopers Rock near Morgantown is one of the most photogenic spots in West Virginia. Here a stone-and-log fence clings to a sandstone cliff top soaring high above the Cheat River Gorge. The leafy drive to the viewpoint is ablaze with color in fall. The Rock City Trail (0.7 mile one-way) barrels through a wonderland of boulders.

Wisconsin – Natural Bridge State Park 

Balance the tourist-induced mayhem of the Wisconsin Dells with the tranquility of nearby Natural Bridge State Park in North Freedom. The “bridge” is made of sandstone and is a remnant of the last Ice Age. Nearby there’s a rock shelter used by Native people over 10,000 years ago, making it the oldest documented site of human occupation in the Upper Midwest. It’s an inspiring place for a day out. 

Wyoming – Sinks Canyon State Park 

Beautiful Sinks Canyon State Park , six miles southwest of Lander on Hwy 131, centers on a curious feature of the Middle Fork of the Popo Agie River, where the rushing water suddenly turns into a small cave and disappears into the soluble Madison limestone. Although the water bubbles up a quarter-mile downstream, scientists have learned it takes nearly two hours for it to make the subterranean journey before emerging warmer and with more volume.

From Acadia to Zion: A complete guide to all 63 national parks in the United States

This article was first published Jun 11, 2020 and updated Jun 13, 2022.

Explore related stories

Apr 18, 2024 • 7 min read

Behold the incredible majesty of the most beautiful waterfalls in the US.

Apr 14, 2024 • 8 min read

Mar 20, 2024 • 8 min read

Mar 15, 2024 • 10 min read

Mar 7, 2024 • 9 min read

Feb 7, 2024 • 6 min read

Feb 1, 2024 • 7 min read

Jan 23, 2024 • 7 min read

Jan 17, 2024 • 9 min read

Jan 5, 2024 • 7 min read

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Manage Your Subscription
• Give a Gift Subscription
• Sweepstakes
• Destinations

16 Best State Parks in Texas for Beautiful Desert, Mountain, Waterfall, and River Views

These state parks in Texas offer something for everyone.

With its diverse terrain, ranging from dense forests and vast deserts to dramatic canyons, Texas is a playground for outdoor enthusiasts. The Lone Star State has more than 80 state parks — many offering opportunities to hike, camp, fish, kayak, mountain bike, or spot wildlife.

These protected lands are also steeped in history. Humans have inhabited Texas for about 13,000 years, and before that, prehistoric animals left their marks on the state. Today, visitors to Texas parks can see traces of the past in various forms, including pictographs, petroglyphs, ancient dwellings, and even dinosaur tracks. Here are 16 of the best state parks in Texas, whether you're looking for adventure, history, or stunning landscapes.

Big Bend Ranch State Park

As Texas' largest state park, Big Bend Ranch State Park offers all of the flora and fauna of its neighbor, Big Bend National Park , but is even more remote. Located in far West Texas on the U.S.-Mexico border, this state park offers rugged adventures like hiking, horseback riding, river floating, biking, and more. Don't miss the stargazing here at night, as it's a designated International Dark Sky Park .

Garner State Park

With nearly three miles of Frio River access, plus 1,774 acres of Hill Country adventure , it's no wonder that Garner State Park is Texas' most-visited state park. Float the Frio on an inner tube in true Texas style, or hike along 16 miles of scenic trails. Camping, canoeing, fishing, mini golf, and geocaching are also available. In the summertime, gather at the park's concession building for an evening of dancing around the jukebox — a park tradition since the 1940s.

Inks Lake State Park

On the eastern edge of the Llano Uplift, known as the geological heart of Texas, Inks Lake State Park offers some of the best views of Precambrian geology in the state. Cool water meets rock outcrops here, making for great swimming, fishing, boating, and hiking. Nine miles of trails are available, too. Check out the bird blind to see what species are visiting the park.

Palo Duro Canyon State Park

Texas is home to the second-largest canyon in the country, and it's found in Palo Duro Canyon State Park in the Panhandle. More than 30 miles of hiking, biking, and equestrian trails are available, along with birding, geocaching, and glamping. Be sure to look for hoodoos as you hike, and in the summer, catch a show at Texas Outdoor Musical , which tells the stories of early Texas settlers.

Caprock Canyons State Park & Trailway

Home to the Texas State Bison Herd, Caprock Canyons State Park is the perfect place to get back to nature. The bison roam the plains, so take caution when driving, and do not approach them. Ninety miles of trails are open for easy to strenuous hiking and biking, and Lake Theo offers no-wake boating, fishing, and swimming.

Caddo Lake State Park

Covered in bald cypress trees dripping with Spanish moss, as well as a labyrinth of bayous, ponds, and swamps, Caddo Lake is quintessential East Texas. The park covers more than 26,000 acres and contains more than 70 species of fish, drawing in anglers from all over the world. A fishing pier and boat ramp are both accessible, too. Rent or bring your own canoe or kayak and explore the 50-plus miles of paddling trails in the area. Wildlife, including alligators, are abundant here.

Seminole Canyon State Park & Historic Site

While people have been visiting this area for 12,000 years, it was a group that arrived about 7,000 years ago that left the most important mark at Seminole Canyon . These hunter-gatherers painted pictographs in the rock shelters of the Lower Pecos River Country, and today, more than 200 sites still have these paintings. Aside from looking for pictographs, visitors here can geocache, mountain bike, hike, and more.

Dinosaur Valley State Park

In Glen Rose, Texas, take a walk back in time at Dinosaur Valley State Park . Around 113 million years ago, dinosaurs roamed this area at the edge of an advancing and retreating sea. Today, fossilized footprints and claw marks, most likely from sauropods and theropods, are preserved in the riverbed. While the tracks are hidden under mud and water most of the year, they are visible during periods of drought or during late summer when water levels are low. Twenty miles of trails are also available for hiking and mountain biking, and the Paluxy River is a paddler's paradise.

Longhorn Cavern State Park

A special treat less than 90 minutes from Austin , Longhorn Cavern State Park is known for its namesake underground cave, which was partly carved out by an ancient river. Anglo settlers mined bat guano from the cave to make gunpowder during the Civil War, and legend says that outlaw Sam Bass hid $2 million inside the cave. Cave tours are available.

Balmorhea State Park

No, that's not a mirage you see. It's actually the world's largest spring-fed swimming pool, located in the West Texas desert. Balmorhea State Park 's pool, up to 25 feet deep, is filled from San Solomon Springs. The water temperature stays between 72 and 76 degrees year-round, creating a warm oasis.

Monahans Sandhills State Park

You can surf on the Gulf Coast in Texas , but you can also surf at Monahans Sandhills State Park in West Texas. Essentially a giant, hilly sandbox, the park is a small part of a dune field that extends further into Texas and New Mexico. Bring your horse and check out the 800-acre equestrian area, or rent sand disks and cross off "surfed in a desert" from your travel wish list.

Hueco Tanks State Park & Historic Site

People have visited these rocky hills in West Texas for thousands of years, looking for rainwater in the huecos, or natural rock basins. This area also provided food and shelter to those meandering through the Chihuahuan Desert , and these people left pictographs and petroglyphs that can still be seen today. The rock art depicts animals, deity-like figures, and face masks with intricate designs. More than 200 masks have been identified, making it the largest collection of these in North America.

Lost Maples State Natural Area

Texas may not come to mind when you picture fall foliage , but think again. Lost Maples protects a special stand of Uvalde bigtooth maples, and these trees, along with others in the park, come alive each autumn with warm, golden colors. The park even puts out an annual fall foliage report to help you plan the best time to visit. Birding is also popular here, as the endangered golden-cheeked warbler is known to make appearances.

Pedernales Falls State Park

Approximately 30 miles west of Austin in Johnson City, Pedernales Falls State Park attracts visitors to its massive slabs of limestone in the Pedernales River, where people love to swim and sprawl out for a day of lounging. Tubing, fishing, hiking, mountain biking, birding, and horseback riding are also available. And the butterfly garden and bird blind allow you to look for wildlife.

Enchanted Rock State Natural Area

A billion years ago, the large pink granite dome known as Enchanted Rock was part of a big pool of magma miles under the earth's surface. It pushed into the rock above in spots, then cooled and hardened, turning into the granite dome it is today. The dome has drawn people here for thousands of years, and today, visitors can hike, backpack, rock climb, bird, and even stargaze, as the park is designated an International Dark Sky Park.

Colorado Bend State Park

West of Lampasas, explore more than 5,000 acres above Lake Buchanan at Colorado Bend State Park . The park is known for Gorman Falls, a 70-foot, spring-fed waterfall you can reach on a three-mile round-trip hike. You can also mountain bike, fish, or paddle along the Colorado River. Check to see if the park offers guided cave tours during your visit, as it's home to more than 400 underground caves.

Love Exploring

The USA's 30 Best State Parks, Ranked

Posted: January 15, 2024 | Last updated: February 29, 2024

States of wonder

With a vast landmass, 50 states and almost 7,000 state parks – not to mention national parks and protected reserves – it’s hard to narrow down a ‘best of’ for the USA. Instead, we’ve tried to highlight the variety of experiences, activities, terrains, wildlife and wonders to witness in state parks across the country; every one of them suited to different ages, abilities and interests, but each, equally unique and unforgettable.

Read on to discover our pick of the top 30 state parks in America and find out which park made our No1 spot...

30. This Is The Place Heritage Park, Utah

There’s no doubt that Utah has some of the most otherworldly geological formations on the planet, but it’s also the spiritual home of the Mormons and history buffs will find the insights into the faith here fascinating. Spanning 450 acres, this state park is a living history site with plenty for both adults and children to enjoy, including pioneer activities, craft demonstrations and pony rides. It's also within easy reach of Salt Lake City, making it a comfortable single-day excursion.

29. Radnor Lake State Park, Tennessee

Just a few miles south of downtown Nashville, acidic soil – unique to this Central Basin area – allows flora such as oak, hickory and beech to flourish around the park’s eponymous, man-made lake. Carpeted by wildflowers in the spring, there are more than six miles of trails to be explored and an all-terrain wheelchair has recently become available for use. Sadly, swimming, camping and picnicking are not permitted, but curb your disappointment with the knowledge that urban proximity already makes this glorious setting a fragile one.

28. Ponca State Park, Nebraska

One of eight state parks in Nebraska, Ponca occupies 2,100 acres on the banks of the Missouri River and has long been celebrated for its biodiversity. With its range of accommodation options, including basic campsites, glamping and mini-lodges, there’s no need to rush your visit or miss out on any of the activities on offer, such as kayaking and horse riding. Plan your visit for the New Year period and you’ll get to experience the nationally famous Fruitcake Fling, with competitors throwing wildlife-friendly fruitcakes for maximum distance.

27. Custer State Park, South Dakota

Located in the Black Hills, this sprawling, 71,000 acre state park is home to roaming wildlife: expect buffalo to stroll past your car, especially if you drive the 19-mile Wildlife Loop Road in the southeastern section of the park. If you plan your visit for the end of September, you may witness the annual Buffalo Roundup, featuring rangers and wranglers herding more than 1,000 bison. For an even more immersive off-road experience, sign up for a Buffalo Safari Jeep Tour, with a guide’s knowledge enhancing your enjoyment of the park.

26. Popham Beach State Park, Maine

Did someone say beach? Popham’s is a stunner – not only vast, but also fully equipped with all the amenities that a visitor with a yen for creature comforts could desire, including showers, bathrooms and barbecue areas. Fox Island can be accessed on foot when the tide is low and starfish are visible; on the route back, the sloshing of the rising water adds to a sense of adventure. Beyond the beach, delve into the history of the area, via the Civil War fortification of Fort Popham and the lighthouse at Squirrel Point.

25. Dismal Swamp State Park, North Carolina

The name itself is a vibe – doesn’t it smack of the DreamWorks character Shrek? Yet this 14,432 acre protected site is no fairy tale; it’s the largest existing swamp in the Eastern States and is, perhaps inevitably, a popular destination for paddlers with its 22 mile canal. The wetlands environment is host to a large variety of wildlife, which can be spotted via various hiking and biking trails. Bear in mind that some of the fauna may include bears and poisonous snakes, and keep an eye on the program of events occurring here throughout the year.

24. Crater of Diamonds State Park, Arkansas

It’s not the most beautiful of state parks but, since 1972, it’s yielded around 35,000 diamonds to visitors. Best of all, it’s one of the only diamond-rich sites in the world operating a ‘finders, keepers’ policy – so if you get lucky, you take your treasure home with you. Although it’s reported that one or two diamonds are found each day, the best time to visit is in the shoulder seasons: that way, even if you don’t find a gem, you’ll have pleasant fossicking conditions and prettier scenery to compensate.

23. Woodford State Park, Vermont

The New England states have long been celebrated for their fall foliage, with leaf-peeping a tourist attraction in itself. Vermont is one of the most popular of these destinations, combining proximity to New York State and a relaxed pace of life. As well as magnificent autumnal displays, Woodford State Park has the highest campground in Vermont, plus a beach, swimming spots and picnic areas. There’s also a 2.7-mile trail that circles the 21-acre lake, called Adams Reservoir, which is popular with kayakers and anglers.

22. Mount Pilchuck State Park, Washington

Ready for a challenge? Mount Pilchuck State Park is located 3,100 feet above sea level, and hikers gain 2,300 feet over a relatively short 2.7 miles. The steep climb to the mountain’s summit takes in a variety of terrain, including loose shale and uneven boulders, as well as sheltered forests and exposed inclines. At the top, a historic fire lookout constructed in 1921 has a wraparound balcony, from which views of the surrounding mountains – the Olympics, Baker, Shuksan and Rainier – can be seen. In winter, the trail can be tackled on snowshoes.

21. Camel’s Hump State Park, Vermont

It's back to Vermont, and with no entrance fee and completely undeveloped terrain, this park encapsulates the state’s natural beauty. A number of trails take hikers to the top of the mountain – from which the views, at an elevation of 4,083 feet, are impressive. Different levels of ability are catered to: choose the Monroe Trail for a challenge, or opt for its accessible loop if you're less able. The Burrows Trail, shorter and less challenging, is a popular choice with visitors. Limited camping is available in the lower sections of the park.

20. Beavers Bend State Park, Oklahoma

This park is truly one for all seasons – blazing autumn leaves, year-round trout fishing, watersports such as waterskiing and kayaking, a 26-mile hiking trail (which can be broken down into seven smaller trails, according to your time and ability) are just the start of it. There’s also an 18-hole golf course and a wealth of lodging options, whether you’re traveling in your RV, rough camping or looking for a place where seclusion meets luxury: Beavers’ Bend Cabins has lodgings that include firepits and hot tubs for a wilderness home-from-home.

19. Golden Gate Canyon State Park, Colorado

Conveniently located 30 miles from Denver, this state park makes for a convenient twin-stay holiday. Yet there’s much more than ease of access to make this a worthwhile destination: the park offers exceptional hiking and camping, with campsites, yurts and cabins available, as well as hikes for all levels of ability and fitness. There are 35 miles of trails to tackle throughout the year, whether you take to them on two wheels, four hooves or in sturdily soled boots. Dogs on leads are also welcome to join your adventures through the ever-changing, seasonal landscape.

18. Jedediah Redwoods State Park, California

There are numerous state parks in The Golden State, but majestic redwoods are so integral to California's iconography that not losing yourself in these towering conifers would seem a travesty. A sole campsite in Jedediah Redwoods State Park means you’re unlikely to feel crowded by people – so you can fully immerse yourself in the trees even more. Trees are prioritized over trails, of which there are only 20 miles – a micro-area in the context of 10,000 acres. Proximity to Oregon, just a few miles away, makes the location even more enticing.

17. Maquoketa Caves State Park, Iowa

With more caves than any other state park, Maquoketa Caves have been formed by non-glacial erosion over millennia. Wrap up warm: inside, the temperature is a chilly 52°F and with over 13 caves to explore on your own, you won’t want to miss any of them. Follow the six-mile trail system, meandering through glorious landscape featuring scenic vistas and limestone formations: highlights include the towering bridge over Raccoon Creek. The 1,100-foot-long Dancehall Cave is so called because locals once used it for carousing, while serious spelunkers will find many more challenging caves to tackle too.

16. Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park, Michigan

With 60,000 acres, of which 15 miles are hiking trails, The Porkies' 11 campgrounds allow multi-day exploration. Open year-round, snowmobiles take over when winter closes the roads; in autumn, the trees blaze with color. Fish (catch and release) at the Lake of the Clouds, or enjoy its splendor from an accessible vantage point. Copper Peak, the only ski-flying hill outside of Europe, is also here: even without aerial skis, the views are stupendous, while snowmelt in spring makes the park’s 90-odd falls crashingly majestic.

15. Pictograph Cave State Park, Montana

Some of Montana’s first archaeological investigations took place here back in 1937, and the wonderment of witnessing evidence of the state’s first inhabitants is no less compelling today. In three caves, pictographs dating back over 2,000 years make this 23-acre park a site of archaeological and historic significance. Top tip? Although the interpretive trail is less than a mile long, binoculars will make your experience richer and more fulfilling, not only in terms of rock art and scenery, but also wildlife.

14. Rickwood Caverns State Park, Alabama

Spanning 380 acres, Rickwood Caverns State Park is one of Alabama’s smallest, but delivers in subterranean spades. Exploration of the network of underground caves is only possible on a guided tour, during which you’ll see 260-million-year-old limestone formations, as well as fossilized remnants of ancient ocean life. There’s also an underground lake, in which you might spy translucent fish, peculiar to this environment. Above ground, the park features a swimming pool fed by spring water, as well as campsites, a playground and hiking trails replete with wildlife and fossil imprints.

13. Hocking Hills State Park, Ohio

Covering 2,500 acres, there are over 25 miles of well-maintained trails here, weaving through woods resplendent with ferns and moss. Birdwatching opportunities are mesmerizing – the park is home to more than 150 species, including birds such as Pine Siskin and Blue-Headed Vireo. The horseshoe-shaped Ash Cave is a real highlight: reached via a gorge lined by towering hemlocks, it has a waterfall crashing over its rim. The aptly named Devil’s Bathtub, a streambed depression formed by water erosion, is said to reach all the way to the underworld but is really only a few feet deep, unlike the park’s Rose Lake, which is 17 feet at its deepest point.

12. Tonto Natural Bridge State Park, Arizona

We all know the Grand Canyon, so instead, let’s talk about Tonto Natural Bridge State Park, home to the world’s largest natural travertine bridge. Standing 183 feet high over a 400-foot tunnel, a tough scramble accesses the best views via one of the trails. Due to the millions of years of geological activity, your body can span millennia by placing your feet and hands on different surfaces. Sadly, swimming is prohibited near the bridge, but you can splash about (no lifeguard) at Pine Creek downstream.

11. Hot Springs State Park, Wyoming

Named Wyoming’s first state park in 1897, its mineral-rich, health promoting hot springs have been a draw for the curious, the ill and the weary ever since. Importantly, an agreement with the land’s first owners, the Eastern Shoshone and Northern Arapaho tribes, has been honored with free access. Vivid colors, striking rock formations and wild bison form fascinating views, even for those not entering the waters, while a walking bridge offers a different perspective of the river. Note that camping is not permitted.

10. Providence Canyon State Park, Georgia

While some of the United States’ marvels were created by natural forces, this one was, rather less gloriously, formed via poor farming practices. Regardless, the rose-to-plum colors of the rocks and gullies are swoon-worthy, even without the sight of rare flora, and there's the opportunity to extend a visit by staying at one of the park’s pioneer or backcountry campsites. Night skies are inkily dark here, so enjoy the blaze of stars on an overnight stay and learn more about the area’s unusual history in its museum and visitors’ center.

9. Kachemak Bay State Park, Alaska

In a place as wild as Alaska – its license plates proudly proclaim it to be ‘The Last Frontier’ – being named the state’s first park is not to be taken lightly. With miles of trails winding through its 400,000 acres, the diversity of landscape in Kachemak is awe-inspiring, with everything from glaciers to forests, from ocean to forest flora and fauna. Opportunities for outdoor activities abound, with permits required for fishing and hunting. Hikes range from moderate (for example, the Glacier Lake trail) to difficult (Grace Ridge Summit or Alpine Ridge).

8. Goblin Valley State Park, Utah

Utah’s lunar landscapes are the stuff of legend and it’s fair to say that you can scarcely go wrong, regardless of which park you choose. Nevertheless, Goblin Valley takes ‘otherworldly’ to the next level, and its Edvard Munch-like ‘Scream’ sandstone formations have been deemed so similar to the landscape on Mars that NASA bases one of its few training facilities there. Guided and independent explorations are available, with canyoning, hiking and rappelling all part of the available experiences.

7. Palo Duro Canyon State Park, Texas

Nicknamed ‘The Grand Canyon of Texas,’ Palo Duro is located in the state’s north. The landscape is full of drama – from striated canyon walls in earthy shades of red, purple and brown, to flora that entices with color, while simultaneously issuing spiky warnings to curious fingers. Activities include horseback riding, zip lining, camping and biking – plus, of course, keeping your eyes peeled for roadrunners and rattlesnakes. A six-mile trail takes you to Lighthouse Rock, an impressive red rock monolith standing at 310 feet.

6. Cumberland Falls State Resort Park, Kentucky

Somewhere, over the moonbow… this rare phenomenon occurs relatively frequently at Cumberland State Falls, an almost phantasmic arc most often seen within a few days either side of a full moon. Plan your visit within an hour or two of sunset to maximize your chances of spotting what's also known as a lunar rainbow. Views of the falls – thundering down 68 feet of sandstone, and after which the park is named – are best seen from Eagle Falls Trail, a 1.5 mile loop.

5. Devil’s Lake State Park, Wisconsin

The striking geological formations at this park are billions of years old but, even if you weren’t wowed by their age, their sheer size and gravity-defying nature would stop you in your tracks – and there are 30 miles of it to explore. With a permit, you can climb some of the rocky structures found in the park; otherwise, set up camp at one of three campsites or drift about on Devil’s Lake, where you can boat, swim, kayak, scuba dive or fish.

4. Ecola State Park, Oregon

With its coastal setting, Ecola State Park has the best of both worlds when it comes to surfing and hiking. There’s plenty of tranquillity to be enjoyed too, with tide pooling a popular, family-friendly activity and, occasionally, whales to be spotted. With several trails throughout the park varying in length and difficulty, visitors can experience a variety of scenic vantage points, including views of Tillamook Rock Lighthouse. Constructed in the late 19th century, it stands on a basalt rock and is steeped in legend.

3. City of Rocks State Park, New Mexico

Located in the southwest of the state, City of Rocks takes its name from its towering formations, sculpted by the elements from ancient volcanic ash. With two different trails to explore, visitors can expect to see desert flora, such as bunny ear cacti and Yucca, and fauna such as javelinas (wild boars) and jackrabbits. Bird species also abound – watch for the majestic golden eagle. A dark sky area, stargazing is quite literally a dazzling experience on a camping stay, while hot springs in nearby Faywood ease the post-hike aches.

2. Blue Spring State Park, Florida

The name (almost) says it all – the color of the water alone makes this park worth your while. Known as the winter haven of the Florida manatee, visitors can see hundreds of these enormous mammals in one place. Of course, the park’s watery environs make for excellent aquatic activities, with snorkeling, diving, canoeing, fishing and swimming all popular. Bear in mind that such pastimes are limited according to the season to protect the manatees, but walking and wildlife watching provide excellent alternatives.

1. Valley of Fire State Park, Nevada

It’s astonishing that a site so magnificent can be covered in just a few hours: spanning only 10 miles across, it can be managed on a drive, with or without stops. The colors and formations are the showstoppers, with ice-cream swirls of candy-colored rock interspersed with the ancient significance of ancestral petroglyphs. Time permitting, utilize the camping facilities to experience the sunsets from which the park takes its name, and set off on an early morning hike for a more immersive experience than four wheels can offer.

Now discover 34 of the world's most breathtaking rock formations

More for You

28 celebrities you probably did not know are nonbinary

‘We got it wrong:’ WeightWatchers CEO on weight loss

Dog and toddler in Colorado howl together

LSU's Livvy Dunne Signs Massive NIL Deal With Interesting Partner

Makeup brand criticized for creating deep black foundation shade following backlash

I’m a Bank Teller: 3 Times You Should Never Ask For $100 Bills at the Bank

The films everyone should see at least once before they die, according to critics

“American Idol” pays tribute to Mandisa with performance from past contestants: 'Our loss is heaven's gain'

At 43, I’ve finally learned how to love my size 16 curves

What happens if you don't use airplane mode on your flight? Here's the answer to that, and more common travel questions.

20 Loyal Dog Breeds That Will Never Leave Your Side

7 Things To Know If You Withdraw More Than $10,000 From Your Checking Account

I became a millionaire at age 27—here are 4 'unpopular' rules rich people follow that most don't

16 Historical Movies That Are Also Historically Accurate

Chinese supercarrier Fujian is about to enter sea trials. Only one nation can beat her

Donald Trump receives $1.8bn worth of Trump Media stock in bonus

US House of Representatives may consider Speaker Johnson's resignation next week

17 Animals You Can’t Keep as Pets in the US

The 31 Best Grammys Red Carpet Outfits Ever

US Takes Action Against Russia for Alleged Use of Chemical Weapons

12 Best USA National Parks to Visit in January (+Info & Tips)

By Author Jurga

Posted on Last updated: April 23, 2024

Looking for some inspiration for where to travel in January ? In this article, we share some amazing American National Parks to visit in January !

At first glance, January might not look like a good month to travel to many U.S. National Parks. However, there are so many places that are absolutely great at this time of the year! Furthermore, after Christmas and New Years’ crowds disperse, this is one of the quietest months to travel.

Whether you are looking for a winter break in the snow, cooler temperatures in order to explore rugged desert landscapes, or a real winter getaway in the sun, January can be a wonderful time to visit various U.S. National Parks.

In this article, we feature an inspirational mix of a variety of National Parks that you can visit in January . From the wintery sceneries of Rocky Mountain National Park in Colorado, surreal landscapes of White Sands National Park in New Mexico, to dreamy beaches in the south – there’s truly something for everyone on this list.

Good to know: For this inspirational post for National Parks to visit in January, we also asked the opinions of other travel writers. They share some of their favorite American National Parks that they visited in January and offer experience-based tips for your trip. We also included some of our personal suggestions. Take a look!

PRO TIP: If you are visiting several National Parks, make sure to get an annual America the Beautiful Pass. You can buy it online or at any park. It costs 80 USD for the whole family traveling in the same vehicle. It’s valid in all National Parks and 2,000 federal recreation sites across the United States for one year from the month of purchase.

READ ALSO: America’s Most Visited National Parks

These are some nice National Parks to visit in January:

1. Biscayne National Park

• Location: Florida
• Where to stay: The closest place to stay is Homestead, FL from where you can take tours to the islands. Otherwise, stay in Miami, which is very close by.

January is one of the best months to visit Florida and its stunning National Parks. So it will come as no surprise that we included quite a few places in Florida in our selection of the best National Parks to visit in January.

Biscayne National Park is the first park in our selection. Not just because of the weather (which is perfect in January), but also because it’s very close to Miami and quite easy to visit. Furthermore, it’s a truly beautiful place that has everything – beautiful nature, fun outdoor activities, marine animals, but also historic lighthouses.

Located just 20 miles south of Miami, Biscayne is a unique National Park because 95% of it is actually underwater. So the best way to explore here is by boat!

You can go sailing or kayaking, opt for a snorkeling tour, or simply book a boat cruise that brings you to all the nicest places in just a few hours. Most tours start at Dante Fascell Visitor Center in Homestead, FL ( more info ). In addition, there are also tours from Miami that explore Biscayne Bay.

Biscayne National Park comprises several islands, stunning coral reefs, and mangrove forests. You can also expect to see dolphins, turtles, and pelicans.

TIP: Combine your visit to Biscayne with that of Everglades and Dry Tortugas National Parks and also Honeymoon Island State Park. You can find information for all these places further below.

2. Channel Islands National Park

• Location: California
• Suggestion by Tom from Travel Past 50
• Where to stay: There is only camping on the islands. It’s best to stay in Ventura or in Oxnard and visit the Channel Islands by boat tour for a day or for a few days. On multi-day trips, you sleep on a (private) yacht.

Channel Islands National Park is truly one of the joys of the US National Park system. It’s located just off the coast of densely populated Southern California, but you can’t drive there. So because it’s a bit more difficult to get to, this National Park is not as busy as most others. It’s a great choice for those willing to get off the beaten path!

It’s great to visit Channel Islands National Park in January for a few reasons. First, the weather is perfect for hiking, with average temperatures in the 50s (12-15°C). And while winter is the rainy season, it’s usually dry with an occasional rainy day. January is also the start of the wildflower bloom season.

Furthermore, since the Channel Islands NP is usually visited as a day trip from mainland California, you can always check the weather forecast last minute and pick the best-weather day for your trip.

The crowds are much lighter here in winter or in spring than in summer. And because there are fewer people, the wildlife are more likely to show themselves. We saw plenty of island foxes and the ubiquitous crows. Also, when we were there, the seas were quite calm and ideal for kayaking, especially in the many sheltered coves.

Getting there: The easiest way to get to the Channel Islands via the official ferry from Island Packers Cruises from Ventura. The trip to Santa Cruz, the closest island, takes about an hour and there’s a good chance that you’ll get to watch dolphins frolicking in the channel during your trip.

Once you get to Santa Cruz, you have a few choices of things to do. There’s snorkeling, sea kayaking, and hiking. Any activity other than hiking should be arranged in advance through the official vendors. You can also camp on Santa Cruz, with a permit from the National Park Service.

If you decide to go hiking, you’ll probably get an introduction from one of the National Park volunteer guides. They will explain the interesting natural history of the islands, the wildlife, and the ongoing recovery of the native species that had been almost lost when the island was an active farm.

Overnight stays: Overnight camping is probably a good choice if you really want to explore the island and do more than one activity. If you do the boat day trip, you’ll only have about 5,5 hours on the island. Plenty of time for a nice hike or kayak trip, but not both. If you do decide to camp, be sure you’re prepared. There are no facilities or supplies on the island other than toilets and water, and they are only in the landing area. Don’t forget you have to take out anything you bring in.

3. Haleakala National Park

• Location: Maui, Hawaii
• Suggestion by: Meredith from Chasing Abandon .
• Where to stay: There’s no lodging inside the park. Maui Island isn’t that big, so you can stay anywhere on the island and visit the park for a day. We recommend staying in the Wailea area .

Located in Hawaii on the island of Maui, Haleakala National Park occupies a large portion of the island’s southern edge. The namesake of Haleakala National Park is the extinct volcano, Haleakala. Climbing up over 3,000 meters from the Pacific Ocean, the barren summit of Haleakala is a sharp contrast from the rain forests at its base.

Haleakala’s summit has become a famous sunrise spot on Maui . Popularity has grown so much that the Park now requires reservations for sunrise viewing to limit the number of vehicles each day. One of the easiest ways to visit at sunrise is to go on an organized tour .

Planning your trip to Haleakala in January, after the Christmas crowds have subsided, will offer a slightly less crowded experience not just in the park, but in all of Maui.

If you’re comfortable with the summit elevation, make sure to pack your hiking shoes to (slowly!) explore the summit trails after sunrise. Head out for a short trek or go for the day, as you walk through the barren, cinder landscape of a once-active volcanic landscape. Bike tours from the summit down to the valley or zip-lining tours are also very popular.

Make sure to check in with the visitor center to learn about the delicate and beautiful Haleakala Silverswords , where to view them along the trails, and the conservation efforts in place to protect these special native plants.

If you have the time to explore beyond the summit, visit the coastal areas of the park when you drive the famous Hana Highway . The coastal Kipahulu visitor center offers a range of unique cultural programs highlighting the history of this area. Stretch your legs on the coastal trail before packing up in the car for the trip back to Hana.

January weather in Maui is usually pleasant with daytime temperatures in the high low 70s to 80s (20-26°C), but there are so many different climate zones that it’s really difficult to predict. Also, it is much colder on the Haleakala summit, especially at sunrise. So to fully experience Haleakala National Park, pack for both warm, wet weather along the coast and sub-freezing temperatures at the summit.

TIP: January is also one of the best months to see humpback whales in Maui ! For more tips on what to see and do, please check our guide to the best activities on Maui and also Maui itinerary suggestions .

4. White Sands National Park

• Location: New Mexico
• Suggestion by: Margherita from The Crowded Planet
• Where to stay: There’s no lodging inside the park. Alamogordo is the best town to stay nearby.

White Sands National Park is in a remote part of Southern New Mexico, about 50 miles from Las Cruces and 14 miles from the remote town of Alamogordo. It’s also one of the most recent national parks in the U.S., having been established only in December 2019.

Its remote location and the fact that it’s still little-known are probably two reasons why White Sands is still relatively offbeat, despite its incredible beauty.

The most recognizable feature of the park (and the reason behind its name) are its blindingly-white gypsum sand dunes . They are so white that they seem to sparkle under the desert sun.

This part of New Mexico gets really hot. So winter months and especially January is the best season to visit White Sands. You can expect maximum temperatures in the high 70s (25°C), which makes for a pleasant visit. In summer, daytime highs routinely exceed 40°C!

White Sands National Park is fairly small. The scenic loop drive reaching deep into the dunes is only 16 miles round trip from the visitor center, but you’ll find yourself stopping over and over again to take pictures, as the shifting white sands are a true show of nature.

If you like hiking , there are also a number of hikes allowing you to get close to the desert environment. For something not too challenging, we recommend the 1-mile-long Dune Life Nature Trail , with information signs about life in the desert.

Here you can find more suggestions for the best things to do in White Sands National Park .

5. Everglades National Park

• Where to stay: Most people stay in Miami and visit Everglades for a day (there are lots of tours available ). If you want to stay closer to the park, check out Fairway Inn Florida City Homestead Everglades.

Winter (November through April) is the best time to visit Everglades National Park. It’s a dry season with pleasant temperatures that range from 55 to 75°F (12-25°C). Furthermore, January is one of the quieter months, especially if you visit after the first week when most tourists who came here for Christmas and New Year holidays have already left.

One of the perks of visiting Everglades National Park in January is the low humidity. It means that there are almost no mosquitoes that are known to ruin any visit to Everglades during the wet season. Furthermore, as water levels are lower, it’s easier to spot wildlife. January is also a good month to see birds in Everglades.

The best way to explore Everglades is by taking an airboat tour to spot wildlife . You can also go hiking, rent a bike or a canoe and explore the mangroves on your own.

TIP: If you are planning to visit Florida in the dry season, make sure to plan ahead of time and make reservations not just for your accommodations, but also for any tours you want to do.

6. Virgin Islands National Park

• Location: Island of St. John, one of the U.S. Virgin Islands
• Suggestion by: Theresa from Fueled By Wanderlust
• Where to stay: St. John Island has several accommodations. Check out Westin St. John Resort Villas ! The nearby St Thomas Island (a short trip by ferry) has better facilities and more accommodations (and an airport).

Virgin Islands National Park is a wonderful place to visit in the month of January. Located on the Caribbean island of St. John in the U.S. Virgin Islands, it is a welcome respite from winter at home and a chance to kick back in gorgeous surroundings.

The weather on the Virgin Islands is perfect in January – hot enough for the beach, but with a cooling breeze in the air. You can expect temperatures in the high 70s-mid 80s (25-28°C). As at any time of the year, you can also get some rain, but in January, it hardly ever lasts longer than an hour or two and it remains warm.

January is high season in the Virgin Islands , so everything will be fully open and buzzing. The high season kicks off with New Year’s, which is the island’s busiest (and most expensive) week of the year. The fun continues from there, with vacationers flying, cruising, or boating in on mega yachts.

However, prices are somewhat lower in January, right after the school holiday is over and before the peak season in February. Still, December to April is the peak season here, so make sure to book your accommodation well in advance!

Here you can read more about what to expect and the best things to do in St John, USVI .

Virgin Islands National Park takes up two-thirds of tiny St. John island and there is plenty to see and do. The famous North Shore is lined with untouched pristine beaches, and there is hardly a resort or vacation rental in sight. You can choose from popular beaches, or hike to smaller ones. It’s not hard to find a beach with hardly any people around.

The coast around the island has been designated as Virgin Islands Coral Reef National Monument , so snorkeling is the best activity here with great options at every beach. The coral is nice and there’s a big variety of colorful fish and you may also get lucky and see some sea turtles.

You can also rent kayaks or stand-up paddleboards for some time on the water.

Finally, hiking is one of the most popular activities in the Virgin Islands National Park. Some hikes take you past old Danish plantation ruins and end at a lovely beach, while others offer up incredible views over the sea down below. Plus, a nice long hike earns you a ‘ Painkiller ‘, which is the island’s signature cocktail. Every bar and restaurant has its own version, so make sure to give it a try!

7. Pinnacles National Park

• Suggestion by: Dhara from Roadtripping California
• Where to stay: Only camping is available inside the park. The closest town with the best facilities is Salinas (west side). If you want to visit both sides, try this hotel in King City , about 40 minutes drive from either side of the park.

If you are planning a trip to California in January and you love nature, put Pinnacles National Park on your itinerary!

The newest California national park features the stunning namesake volcanic pinnacles , but it is also home to some really cool talus caves . Much of the park is designated wilderness, so once inside, you really feel like you are in nature, far away from everything!

Pinnacles National Park is a haven for a wide variety of wildlife and birds. In fact, California condors that are bred in captivity are released into the wild at Pinnacles. So when you visit, be sure to look for the majestic birds with their giant wingspans!

Hiking is the primary reason why you’d want to visit Pinnacles National Park. There is no road that runs through the park, so you have to get out and walk to experience it up close. Trails run the gamut from relatively easy to strenuous, and you can string several trails together to do a bigger loop.

We recommend picking a trail that includes one of the two major talus caves in the park, provided they are open when you visit. One or both caves are sometimes closed to protect breeding bats. So make sure to visit the Pinnacles Visitor Center before you set off for the hike.

From the East entrance, the Bear Gulch Trail takes you through the Bear Gulch Cave for a view of the Bear Gulch Reservoir. From there, you can take the Rim Trail for more pinnacle views. From the West entrance, the Balconies Cave Trail leads you to the other major talus cave in the park. It is a relatively flat and easy trail that kids will enjoy.

If you’re up for a bigger challenge, one of the best hikes in the park is the High Peaks Trail . This strenuous loop passes the most beautiful parts of the park and takes about 4.5-5hrs, but you can also just do smaller parts of the trail, depending on your interests and abilities. Winter is one of the best times if you want to hike here and even then, make sure to pack plenty of water!

With daytime temperatures in the low 60s (15-18°C), January is the perfect time to hike Pinnacles National Park. You may even be lucky enough to see a dusting of snow on the tops of the tallest spires when you visit in January!

Bring layers so you can bundle up if you plan to explore early or late in the day, and a light rain jacket in the event of a shower. Good hiking boots or hiking shoes are a must! And take a flashlight if you plan to explore the caves.

8. Honeymoon Island State Park

• Suggestion by Paula from Paula Pins the Planet
• Where to stay: Dunedin, FL is just nearby and has lots of accommodations and other facilities.

Among the best National Parks to visit in January, we just couldn’t resist including the stunning Honeymoon Island State Park in Florida in our selection. While technically not a National Park, this State Park is an amazing destination for those looking to escape the winter in January!

This beautiful island is a great place for outdoor activities and beach lovers. It offers many options like soaking in the sun, swimming , fishing , kayaking , biking , and hiking . There are 4-miles of amazing beaches to explore and a 3-mile hiking trail through one of the last remaining virgin slash pine forests.

Even though the name sounds romantic, Honeymoon Island State Park is a great place to visit for the whole family. You can even bring your pets! Inside the park, you can find Pet Beach, a paradise for canine family members.

Honeymoon Island is a great destination to visit all year-round, but winter is the dry season and the weather is at its best. Furthermore, it’s a good time for wildlife .

If you visit Honeymoon Island State Park in January, you have higher chances to see birds such as eagles, osprey, and great horned owls, and ground animals including gopher tortoises, raccoons, and armadillos.

This is also the best time of the year to spot manatees and dolphins close to shore, due to the temperate climate during this time of the year.

TIP: In addition to the Honeymoon Island, you can also take a ferry across the channel to Caladesi Island . This island has pristine beaches and turquoise water and is also less crowded and less rocky than the beaches of Honeymoon Island.

Practical info: The Park is open 365 days per year, from 8 am until sunset. To enter the State Park, you have to pay an entry fee of $8 per vehicle. Honeymoon Island State Park is located about 25 minutes north of Clearwater Beach in the Tampa Bay area on Florida’s west coast, at the end of the Dunedin Causeway.

If you love nature and you are looking for a pristine beach with plenty of activities, and especially if you want to enjoy the sun of the sunshine state in the cold month of January, Honeymoon Island State Park is a perfect destination!

9. Rocky Mountain National Park

• Location: Colorado
• Suggestion by: Jenny from Campsite Vibes
• Where to stay: There are no accommodations inside the park. Estes Park is the best place to stay nearby. For more information, check our guide to the best places to stay near Rocky Mountain National Park .

Rocky Mountain National Park is a perfect trip for winter lovers. The entire park transforms into a winter wonderland and you get to experience the most beautiful winter landscapes you can imagine.

Part of the park is closed during the winter months, but there is still plenty to see and do in the Rocky Mountain NP in winter. If you don’t know where to start, check out our Rocky Mountain National Park itinerary suggestions (just keep in mind that not everything is accessible this time of the year). Here you can also find our suggested itinerary from Denver to Rocky Mountain National Park that can be easily adapted for a winter trip.

One of the prettiest winter trails is a hike to Nymph Lake, Dream Lake, and Emerald Lake . It starts from the Bear Lake area and continues to the first lake, Nymph Lake. From there keep going to Dream Lake and it opens up views of the peaks above and the frozen lake. If it’s not too windy, you can continue on to Emerald Lake which is also worth the views. If you do the entire hike, it’s 3.8 miles round trip.

You can also hike to Lake Haiyaha which is 4.4 miles round trip or the 2 miles round trip to Alberta Falls and see them frozen over. Both trails also start from Bear Lake.

Even in the winter months, you might also see lots of wildlife activity in the park. Elk and bighorn sheep are commonly seen in the Rocky Mountain National Park in winter. Just make sure to keep a safe distance from wildlife!

In January, you can expect relatively dry, but very cold weather. Average temperatures range in the 20s-30s (0 to-8°C), so be prepared for the cold. However, if you are dressed appropriately, you’ll find the Colorado winters very enjoyable.

Make sure to dress appropriately so that you can truly enjoy your winter adventures to the fullest! Leave the sneakers at home and opt for insulated winter boots that will keep your feet warm and dry.

If you’re going hiking, wear ice cleats or snowshoes to add some traction to every step. Hiking poles are also very useful! It will help keep you from slipping around on ice or slippery snow. Or if you don’t want to hike or snowshoe, you can go backcountry or cross-country skiing .

10. Shenandoah National Park

• Location: Virginia
• Suggestion by: Stephanie from History Fan Girl
• Where to stay: There are several accommodations along Skyline Drive. Big Meadows Lodge is one of the nicest ones. Alternatively, stay in Luray north of Shenandoah.

Shenandoah National Park in the Blue Ridge Mountains is great in all seasons. But having been here in summer, fall, and winter, I especially enjoyed the January visit. It’s actually one of my favorite US National Parks to visit in January because of the ease with which you can see the beauty of the mountains without needing to venture out into the cold Virginia winter.

The best way to experience Shenandoah in winter is by driving the Skyline Drive . This is a scenic highway that runs about a hundred miles through the park (see map ). The Skyline Drive has 75 (!) separate overlooks where you can enjoy stunning views across the Blue Ridge Mountains.

In winter, the park is usually so quiet that you can just pull over and enjoy the views without even having to get out and step into the cold! And it sure is cold with average daytime temperatures just below the freezing point.

The drive takes 3 hours if you drive from end-to-end without stopping, as the speed limit is just 35 miles an hour. However, plan to spend a few more hours enjoying the various viewpoints along the way. Make sure to stop at Thorton Hollow (Mile 27.5) and Spitler Knowl Overlook (Mile 48) for stunning views. Of course, with so many overlooks to choose from, you really can’t go wrong.

If you do want to get out and do some hiking , there are a few short hikes of less than two miles that you can enjoy in winter. Shorty Man (Mile 41.7), Frazier Discovery Trail (Mile 79.5), and Dark Hollow Falls (Mile 50.4) are all popular winter hikes in Shenandoah. Dark Hollow Falls even leads you to a gorgeous waterfall, so it’s worth getting out of the car to enjoy.

Winter is also a great time to visit Shenandoah because the impressive sunrises and sunsets over the blue-tinged mountains provide a completely different viewing experience than you’ll see the rest of the year. Don’t get me wrong, Shenandoah is gorgeous year-round. But I do think it offers something special for those coming in winter.

Every four years, January is a very popular time to visit Shenandoah because many people pass through the park on the way to the Presidential Inauguration held in Washington DC.

Good to know: Certain stops and shops are closed in winter, however, the lack of crowds certainly makes up for it! Before you set off, make sure to check the official website of the National Park Service for any closures.

11. Dry Tortugas National Park

• Location: Gulf of Mexico, just off the coast of Florida
• Suggestion by: Victoria from Florida Trippers
• Where to stay: There is only camping in Dry Tortugas. Most people stay in Key West, FL , and visit Dry Tortugas with an organized catamaran tour from Key West .

Dry Tortugas National Park is one of the best national parks to visit in January! It is the most remote National Park in Florida , and there are a variety of reasons why this is the best time to go!

First, January means that Florida is out of hurricane season so you don’t have to worry about planning your trip around an impending natural disaster.

Second, January means that Florida is out of the rainy season so skies are clearer and there is less likelihood of an afternoon thundershower. Rains in January in south Florida are fairly uncommon.

Finally, the weather is amazing for exploring all that Dry Tortugas National Park has to offer! You can expect pleasant daytime temperatures in the 70s (21-25°C).

Dry Tortugas is an island chain of 7 islands and 100 square miles filled with sandy beaches , coral reefs , and marine life .

It is great for swimming and snorkeling and going in January means that the waters are less likely to be stirred up compared to other times of the year! It is also a great place to spot sea turtles!

Make sure to visit the 19th-century Fort Jefferson which was built to protect the southern coast of Florida. It was even a prison during the Civil War! January is also a great time to explore the fort as it is less hot and not as humid as in the summer months!

12. Death Valley National Park

• Location: California (at the Nevada border).
• Where to stay: Inside the park, you have two best hotels: The Oasis (aka The Ranch) and The Inn at Death Valley . Many people opt to stay in Las Vegas and visit Death Valley with a day tour . In fact, visiting Death Valley is one of the most popular day trips from Vegas , especially in the winter months.

January is one of the best months to visit Death Valley National Park ! With the lowest elevation in Northern America, it’s unbearably hot here in the summer. But come winter, the temperatures are cooler, and you can explore Death Valley to the fullest!

While it can get really cold at night, daytime temperatures are usually in the high 60s (15-20°C). A lot also depends on which part of the park you are visiting.

Higher elevations might even have snow in January! But the most popular areas of the park are located much lower and so you don’t need to worry about snow if you just want to see ‘the musts’.

We recently visited Death Valley at the beginning of January, just after New Year, and the weather was great for sightseeing and hiking. We needed jackets at the higher elevations and a light sweater at the lower elevations.

The main disadvantage of visiting Death Valley in January is that the days are quite short. So if you stay in bed too long, you have less time for exploring (it gets dark at around 5 pm at the beginning of the month). But shorter days have advantages too – you don’t have to get up early in order to see some of the nicest sunrises. And you don’t have to stay up late in order to see a sunset.

The park covers a huge area and is surprisingly diverse. From mountains to valleys and even sand dunes to ghost towns, gold and borax mines, or fun activities like horseback riding, biking, or swimming in hot-spring-fed pools, Death Valley has a lot more to offer than it looks at first sight!

Badwater Basin salt pan at the lowest elevation in the USA is an absolute must-see when visiting Death Valley. Make sure to also visit Zabriskie Point and Dante’s View – the most beautiful viewpoints in the park. Artists Drive scenic road is another highlight, just as Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes .

If you want to do some hiking, Mosaic Canyon is probably the best short hike in the park (you only have to hike the first part of the hike – about 15-20 minutes – for the nicest scenery).

LEARN MORE: Must-See Places in Death Valley National Park

So, these are our suggestions for some really nice American National Parks to visit in January. Of course, there are many other great choices, but this should give you plenty of inspiration for some beautiful places to visit in winter.

Recently, we visited Zion NP and also Grand Canyon in winter . Both were absolutely magical with a touch of snow, but you have to be flexible because the weather is difficult to predict.

In the same area, Monument Scenic Valley and Lower Antelope Canyon were excellent choices at this time of the year – not too hot and not too busy.

TIP: If you are looking for more travel ideas, check out our guides for the other winter months via the links below. Most national parks featured there are perfect for a January trip as well. Check it out!

READ ALSO: National Parks to Visit in December National Parks to Visit in February

For even more inspiration for U.S. National Parks, please check our other articles below!

More travel inspiration for American National Parks:

• National Parks to Visit in September
• National Parks to Visit in October
• National Parks to Visit in November
• National Parks to Visit in March
• National Parks to Visit in April
• National Parks to Visit in May
• National Parks to Visit in June
• National Parks to Visit with Kids
• Lesser-Known National Parks – Family Vacation Ideas

If you found this post helpful, don’t forget to bookmark it and share it with your friends. Are you on Pinterest? Pin these images!

More travel inspiration for USA National Parks:

• Best Things to Do in Yellowstone
• Best Things to Do in Arches National Park
• Best Things to Do in Canyonlands National Park
• Best Hikes in Zion National Park
• Grand Teton – Yellowstone Itinerary
• Tips for Visiting Yosemite National Park
• Glacier National Park Itinerary
• Rocky Mountain National Park Itinerary
• Olympic National Park Itinerary
• Acadia National Park Itinerary
• Yellowstone National Park Itinerary
• One Day in Grand Canyon

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Monday 1st of February 2021

White Sand is truely stunning even in winter. I like that it's also just a short drive to a major ski resort.

Friday 5th of February 2021

Thanks for sharing your experience, Kehkou. Indeed, there are some nice places to ski in the nearby mountains. Easy to combine a few places/ activities in one trip.

11 of the Best National Parks to Visit in January

Hey there, adventurers and nature enthusiasts! As we shake off the holiday season and dive into the heart of winter, there’s no better time to explore America’s national parks’ stunning beauty and serene landscapes. These National Parks to visit in January will offer you tons of rewards with zero crowds.

I mean, January is often overlooked as a time to adventure and is a hidden gem for many park-goers.

It’s a month where the crowds thin, the air is crisp, and the natural world offers a quiet, reflective beauty . From the snow-dusted cliffs of Zion to the tranquil, wildlife-rich waters of the Everglades, each park reveals its unique winter persona in January.

So, grab your coats, lace up those hiking boots , and embark on a journey to discover the top national parks to visit in January, where the chill in the air only adds to the magic and majesty of these natural wonders!

Your Guide to the Top National Parks to Visit in January

We’re diving into 11 incredible national parks to visit in January. There are indeed more, but I have to diversify the list too. National Parks left off that are great in January include Yosemite, Saguaro National Park, Guadalupe Mountains, Grand Canyon, Crater Lake, any of the caves, and White Sands.

The hard part about writing is you have to choose to leave some off, or it’ll just be the same 50 National Parks to visit each article (we always leave off Hot Springs, haha.)

Which national parks to go to in January?

Mount rainier national park.

Visiting in January means experiencing Mount Rainier in its full winter glory . The park is a snowy paradise for winter sports enthusiasts, offering snowshoeing, skiing, and snowboarding opportunities. The snow-covered landscape is breathtaking, especially around Paradise, one of Earth’s snowiest places.

Winter also brings challenges, including road closures and the need for tire chains. Before their trip, visitors should check weather conditions and road statuses and be prepared for extreme winter weather.

Overall, it’s one of my favorite National Parks to visit in January.

Three things to know:

• All vehicles MUST carry chains, no matter your car type.
• The park gates close at 5pm, so you must be driving down from Paradise Visitor Center by 4:30pm.
• Make sure to have snowshoes, or you won’t get too far/won’t have as good of a time.

My suggestions for winter hiking gear

Olympic National Park

Olympic National Park presents a moody and lush winter scene. The park’s diverse ecosystems range from rainforests to mountain peaks and coastal areas, all of which take on a different character in winter. With its moss-laden trees , the Hoh Rainforest becomes even more enchanting with the winter rains.

Winter storms along the coast create dramatic seascapes, perfect for photography. The higher elevations receive heavy snowfall, making Hurricane Ridge a popular spot for snowshoeing and skiing. Visitors should be prepared for wet conditions and variable weather.

• Your crowds will be small, so don’t anticipate many lines or crowded trails.
• The rainforest looks so much better during/after the rain. It’s incredibly vibrant and way better than in the summer.
• If you hike out to Shi Shi Beach , the trail is muddier than you can imagine. So come prepared.

Channel Islands National Park

January is a unique time to visit the Channel Islands, offering a serene escape from the mainland . Winter weather can be unpredictable, with cooler temperatures and rougher seas making ferry crossings more adventurous.

This is an excellent time for whale watching as gray and humpback whales migrate through the area. On the islands, visitors can enjoy hiking trails with fewer crowds, offering peaceful exploration. Birdwatching is also exceptional during this time, with many seabirds nesting on the islands. However, visitors should be prepared for variable weather and limited island services.

Book your trip to any of these National Parks

• Potato Harbor is the best place to watch the sunset and is only a 2.5-mile moderately easy hike from the campground.
• If you bring a wagon with all your gear, it’s not a far walk to the first campground. Many people had the most outrageous camping supplies, and my girlfriend and I just had our backpacking gear .
• Book some adventures while there. We did kayaking and had a blast!

Great Sand Dunes National Park

January at Great Sand Dunes is a time of stark beauty and solitude. The sand dunes can be covered in snow, creating a surreal landscape contrasting with the clear blue skies. It’s a cold month, so visitors should dress warmly, but the winter light is perfect for photography.

Activities like sledding or sandboarding down the dunes can be uniquely enjoyable with a layer of snow. Visitors should be prepared for cold temperatures and be aware that some park facilities may be limited during winter.

It’s one of the more unique National Parks to visit in January.

• The park boasts the tallest sand dunes in North America, the area’s most striking feature. The dunes rise up to 750 feet tall and cover about 30 square miles.
• Sandboarding and sand sledding on the dunes are popular and unique experiences. Hiking is also a favorite, with trails leading to the dunes and other areas in the park, like the grasslands, wetlands, and alpine forests. The park also offers excellent stargazing opportunities, as it has some of the darkest skies in the country.
• Despite its name, the park isn’t just sand dunes. It encompasses diverse environments, including alpine lakes, tundra, forests, meadows, and wetlands. This diversity supports a variety of wildlife, from deer and elk to smaller animals like kangaroo rats and the endangered tiger beetle.

Sequoia National Park

January is a magical time to visit Sequoia National Park , one of the national parks to visit in January for those who love snowy landscapes and giant trees. The park’s famous giant sequoias , some of the largest trees on Earth, are a magnificent sight against the backdrop of snow.

Winter activities include snowshoeing and cross-country skiing, allowing visitors to explore the peaceful, snow-blanketed forest.

Visitors should be prepared for winter driving conditions and check road closures before visiting, as snow can limit access to certain areas.

• You’re at elevation, so bring warm clothes and chains for your vehicles. The Sierra can get dumped on in the winter, and it’s best to come prepared. If you need a short hike, Moro Rock is a great one!
• Campgrounds are closed for the most part. You might have to drive in and out every night.
• The switchbacks on the southern entrance are likely closed, so you’ll have to enter via the Kings Canyon side.

Everglades National Park

January is one of the best times to visit the Everglades, with lower humidity, fewer mosquitoes, and pleasant temperatures. This season is ideal for wildlife viewing, especially for spotting wading birds and American alligators, as water levels are lower and animals congregate around water sources.

Popular activities include airboat tours, kayaking, and walking the boardwalk trails. It’s also the dry season, making it comfortable for camping and hiking.

• Everglades National Park is the largest tropical wilderness of any kind in the U.S. and the largest wilderness of any kind east of the Mississippi River. This vast expanse of wetlands spans 1.5 million acres and is renowned for its rich biodiversity.
• The Everglades serves as a critical habitat for numerous rare and endangered species. It is the only place in the world where American alligators and crocodiles coexist. Other notable species include the Florida panther, the West Indian manatee, and a variety of bird species, including the roseate spoonbill, wood stork, and several types of herons and egrets.
• The park is ideal for boating, canoeing, and kayaking due to its extensive waterways. Exploring the park by water allows for an up-close experience with its unique aquatic environments.

Zion National Park

This is one of the best National Parks to visit in January. Zion National Park is a winter wonderland with fewer crowds, offering a serene and reflective experience. The park’s iconic sandstone cliffs are often dusted with snow, creating a stunning contrast against the red rocks.

Hiking trails like The Narrows might be closed due to high water levels or ice, but others, such as the Watchman Trail, remain accessible, offering breathtaking views of the snow-covered terrain. Wildlife viewing is excellent during this time, as animals are more visible against the snowy backdrop.

Visitors should be prepared for cold temperatures and possible snow and ice on trails.

• You need a permit to hike Angels Landing , but getting one in the winter offers one of the best chances to do so.
• The water in the narrows will be frigid, as could the air temps. If you go hiking, over-prepare.
• This could be a winter adventure or have no snow at all. That’s Zion for ya!

Big Bend National Park

Big Bend is a perfect adventure spot in January, with mild temperatures ideal for hiking and exploring. The cooler weather is perfect for daytime activities like hiking the Chisos Mountains or exploring the Santa Elena Canyon. Winter also brings clearer skies, making stargazing a spectacular experience due to the park’s remote location.

Wildlife, including bird species from the northern regions, is more visible during this time. However, nights can be cold, so visitors should come prepared with appropriate gear.

• It’s one of the best places to view the night sky and shoot astrophotography. There’s almost no light pollution anywhere near it.
• The park is uniquely positioned as it borders Mexico, with the Rio Grande serving as the international boundary. This proximity has led to collaborative conservation efforts between the United States and Mexico, emphasizing the importance of cross-border environmental and cultural connections.
• Big Bend National Park is a geologist’s paradise, showcasing a fascinating geological history. The park features ancient limestone, volcanic formations, and fossilized remains of creatures from different geological eras.

Biscayne National Park

An excellent National Park to visit in January is Biscayne National Park. It offers cooler and drier conditions, ideal for exploring the park’s marine environment. It’s a great time for snorkeling and scuba diving, with better visibility in the water.

Boating and fishing are popular activities, and visitors can enjoy the park’s islands, coral reefs, and mangrove shorelines. The weather is usually pleasant but can be variable, so it’s wise to check the forecast.

• It shelters over 500 species of fish, as well as sea turtles, manatees, and dolphins.
• Beyond its natural wonders, the park has a rich cultural history. It includes evidence of 10,000 years of human history, from ancient Native American tribes to shipwrecks and remnants of early 20th-century homesteads.
• Unlike most national parks, Biscayne National Park is predominantly water, with 95% of its area submerged. This makes it a haven for marine life and offers a unique park experience focused on aquatic adventures. The park includes the northernmost group of living coral reefs in the United States, making it an exceptional spot for snorkeling and scuba diving.

Death Valley National Park

Visiting Death Valley National Park in January is ideal due to the mild temperatures, a stark contrast to its extreme summer heat. As one of the national parks to visit in January, Death Valley offers a comfortable climate for exploring its unique desert landscapes, from salt flats to sand dunes and canyons.

Hiking and sightseeing are popular, with must-see spots like Badwater Basin, the lowest point in North America, and the Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes. Winter also brings the chance of rare rain showers, which can lead to ephemeral wildflower blooms. You should still carry plenty of water and be prepared for variable desert conditions, which can be rugged terrain.

• The park is still recovering from the torrential rain in early 2023. Some roads are not open, but most main ones are.
• Zabriskie Point for sunrise is amazing, and Artists Pallete is someplace you want to be for blue hour (either before sunrise or after sunset).
• Bad Water Basin is one of the coolest spots for watching the Milky Way . You will love the tranquility and dark skies.

FAQ: National Parks to Visit in January

Is january a good time to go to the grand canyon.

It’s a decent time to go, but it also depends on what you plan to do. At the top of the South Rim, you’ll have winter-like conditions. But if you hike a couple of miles down , you’ll start to get warmer weather and can ditch the jacket.

If you’re just there to sightsee, it will be gorgeous, and you won’t regret it at all.

Is Yosemite worth visiting in January?

Yes and no. I would say that if Yosemite has snow on the ground and covering the trees and granite, it’s a must-see. However, I would skip it if it’s not showcasing a winter wonderland.

The days are very short inside Yosemite Valley , and you can find better things to do in the spring when the waterfalls are rushing, and top hikes are more accessible.

Is Arizona worth visiting in January?

Most definitely ! Visiting Arizona in January is one of the best months to do so. You’ll have incredible weather, sunny skies, and plenty of opportunities to enjoy nature , lay by the pool, play golf, and so much more. If you’re considering a trip to Arizona in January, book it now!

Can you go to Bryce Canyon in winter?

Yes, you can! Bryce Canyon National Park, covered in snow, is idyllic. It’s actually one of the places I’ve wanted to go for a while but haven’t gotten the chance to visit in the winter. During the summer, it offers awesome hiking and plenty of adventures .

But for the winter, know that it’ll be quite cold and not a lot is open around it. So bring plenty of warm gear and check road conditions before traveling.

Can you go to Yellowstone in January?

Yellowstone National Park is unique in January because they close down most of the roads inside the park. If you want to see just a portion of it covered in snow, go do it! It’ll be incredibly memorable. See the map of their winter road openings .

Can you visit national parks in the winter?

For the most part, yes, you can! Only a few national parks are totally closed, with many of them in snowier climates partially closed down. What makes national parks remarkable is that they are federally operated, so they have the crews to plow roads and keep buildings open even during cold winters.

These National Parks to visit in January give adventurers and explorers a chance to experience crazy conditions that might not be otherwise available.

Final Thoughts on the National Parks to Visit in January

Whether you’re looking for a winter wonderland or a place to escape the cold and soak in the warm, these destinations are ripe for the picking. Enjoy your time in these majestic places, and stay safe out there!

Thanks for reading my article about the National Parks to visit in January.

Author: Alec Sills-Trausch

Title: founder of explore with alec, expertise: hiking, backpacking, photography, and road trips.

Alec Sills-Trausch is a hiker, backpacker, landscape photographer, and syndicated travel writer. He enjoys showing off the beauty of the world through his photos, videos, and written work on ExploreWithAlec.com . Alec is also a 2x cancer survivor and bone marrow transplant recipient, showing the world that there is a future from this terrible disease.

He lives in Washington, where he gets to enjoy the stunning PNW mountains in addition to all the other places he attempts to visit each year! You can see more work on IG at @AlecOutside 

26 Best Places To Visit In January USA (2024)

Written By: ThePlanetD Team

United States

Updated On: April 5, 2024

There is no better place to spend your bleary January than in the USA . The country is full top-to-tail of incredible winter destinations, whether you want warm temperatures or fun winter activities in the snow. January travel is also tactical, being outside peak season for most destinations, meaning fewer crowds and better access to incredible attractions. A great example is the national parks, where hiking trails become almost empty. January in the USA is fabulous – you just need to know which places to visit .

Table of Contents

Best Places To Visit In January In The USA

To help you get the most out of the year’s first month, we’ve compiled a list of the best places to visit in January in the US. These destinations are spread across the entire country – some snowy and wintery with classic activities like cross-country skiing, some mild with better access to hiking trails and attractions, and others hot, with beautiful beaches . Are you ready to plan your January vacation? Here is where you’ll meet your match.

1. South Padre Island

South Padre Island is a brilliant place to visit in January if you want sunny weather and a glorious vacation on a barrier island. In January, temperatures drop marginally, but you can still enjoy plenty of outdoor activities and beach days. There are just so  many things to do  in South Padre Island: birding, horseback riding, snorkeling, and more. It has 34 miles of coastline, bright white sands, and famously emerald waters. It truly is a gem of Texas, as it is the only tropical barrier island and has an impressive total of over 300 days of sunshine a year.

South Padre Island is ideal if you want to experience coastal living in Texas. When you visit in January, you’ll have barely any crowds. In March, all the spring break crowds descend on the town, and the small town gets seriously busy.

2. Key West

Who doesn’t love Key West ? This stunning island city marks the end point of the beloved Florida Keys, a chain of barrier islands located on the southernmost point of Florida. Only 90 miles north of Cuba, Key West gets tropical temperatures all year round – so wave goodbye to cold weather and hello to sandy beaches. Key West has pastel-colored houses and is connected to mainland Florida by the famed Overseas Highway, which connects all the keys. It is known as a hub for diving and snorkeling, and if you are part of a niche group that likes to be underwater rather than on the beach, this is one of the best places to visit in January.

One of the most popular ways to visit this island is on a  Miami to Key West road trip . You can also combine it with a trip to the nearby Everglades.

3. Death Valley National Park

Death Valley National Park is one of January’s most iconic and best places to visit. There are so many  things to do in Death Valley , and we can guarantee that they are much more enjoyable in the 30s to 60s than in the sky-high mid-summer temperatures that Death Valley sees. The summer temperatures in Death Valley National Park get so high that there is a frequent danger-to-life warnings. So it is easily one of the best places to visit in January when warm weather is no barrier to enjoying all the park offers.

Death Valley is the hottest, driest, and lowest national park in the USA. You can visit Badwater Basin, Dante’s View, Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes, and Racetrack Playa. The last one is the most mysterious, with rocks that mysteriously move themselves.

4. Crater Lake National Park

Crater Lake is another best place to visit in January to beat the holiday crowds. This Oregon beauty is one of the  best US national parks , with its most famous money shot being the namesake crater lake that was dramatically formed by the ancient volcano Mount Mazama – which collapsed to leave Crater Lake behind. The park is centered around this lake, with a beautiful Rim Drive with viewpoints over volcanic formations. Many little islands are also on the lake, like Phantom Ship and Wizard Island. Crater Lake National Park is one of the best weekend destinations in January.

Crater Lake National Park is undoubtedly most famed for its bright blue waters and serene atmosphere. It is hard to believe that Crater Lake National Park was once home to a raging volcano. Of course, Crater Lake is also the deepest lake in the USA, another exciting reason to visit. It averages a staggering 31 meters deep and is one of the top 10 deepest lakes in the world.

5. San Diego

The vibrant city of San Diego does not get enough love for our liking. We’ve frequently covered the city, from the best  beaches in San Diego  to a tell-all guide on  where to stay in San Diego . Los Angeles can step aside for a bit – it’s time to give San Diego its well-deserved recognition, especially as one of the best places to visit in January. San Diego’s winning factor is its gorgeous year-round climate, which makes it one of the best places to visit in winter. And when you couple that with over 70 miles of beautiful beaches , it is easy to see why it is such a sought-after place to visit in January. San Diego is a city break meets beach destination.

San Diego has attractions like the Hotel de Coronado, Balboa Park, and the USS Midway Museum. There’s also the beautiful Torrey Pines State National Reserve and plenty of opportunities to spot sea lions.

6. Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park has a beautiful 2.2 million-acre collection and is a designated national elk refuge. It holds the grand title of the world’s first-ever national park and was established in 1872. Yellowstone National Park quickly grew a reputation for its hydrothermal and geological attractions, including Old Faithful – a massive geyser. And its park boundaries actually contain around half of the world’s active geysers. Yellowstone has a wow factor for history and nature lovers alike. Yellowstone National Park is best explored by car, where you can stop to admire and embark on its  best Yellowstone hikes .

So, why visit in the off-season? What makes Yellowstone so great to see in January? In short, you skip the crowds. Yellowstone is one of the most visited national parks in the USA. This means that it gets hectic in peak season. In winter, you will have road closures to contend with, and you are best using a 4WD vehicle. However, the main road between the north and northeast entrances remains open, and you can still visit the park’s highlights. Just carefully research  where to stay in Yellowstone  and see which attractions are most accessible. Yellowstone National Park is definitely an adventure in winter.

7. Saguaro National Park

Saguaro National Park is one of the best places to visit in early January. This national park is home to the most enormous cacti in the USA, and the saguaro plant has quickly become a symbol of America’s ancient Wild West era. Party because of this, Saguaro National Park has become a bucket list national park for people to visit in the USA. The cacti live up to 250 years old and grow to the size of trees – pretty cool, right?

Winter months are the best time to visit this park, as it means you can enjoy the hikes and cacti views without collapsing with heat exhaustion (which is a genuine risk). It is located just outside Tucson, and you don’t need a car if you are nifty on a pedal bike or a good hiker. Saguaro National Park is one of the most accessible parks in the USA.

8. Lake Tahoe

Nowhere quite beats Lake Tahoe in the winter months, and it is easily one of the top places to visit in January if you like ski resorts and outdoor winter activities. Lake Tahoe is renowned for world-class skiing and transforms annually into a winter wonderland. You can hit the slopes or enjoy cross-country skiing; winter sports are some of the  best things to do  in the area. Lake Tahoe is a stunning freshwater lake that straddles the California and Nevada borders. While in the summer, the lake’s beaches attract swimmers and sunbathers, by mid-January, the winter weather turns it into a haven for winter fun with snow sports and ski resorts galore.

Lake Tahoe is an ideal short getaway in January. It has also been used in hundreds of TV shows and movies, thanks to its pristine blue waters and classic backdrop of alpine scenery. As we said, beating Lake Tahoe is hard when you want a ski vacation in the USA. It’s one of the country’s best cold-weather destinations.

9. Zion National Park

Zion National Park might not have warm weather in January, with temperatures dropping below 40 F. However, since the park becomes almost unbearably busy and hot in the summer season, January is about as off-peak and quiet as possible. If you dress for the cold, you can still tackle some of the  best hikes in Zion , and you are almost guaranteed to have them to yourself. Zion National Park has some stunning attractions, including the Emerald Pools, Canyon Overlook Trail, and even the Narrows are accessible in January if you have suitable equipment.

Zion National Park sees around 4.5 million annual visitors, and by visiting in January, you can skirt most of these. It means quieter trails and better accommodation, with more spaces and cheaper rates. You can find out  where to stay in Zion  in advance and snag the best deals.

10. Hunting Island State Park

Hunting Island State Park is the most popular state park in South Carolina. It rose to sharp fame after being used for most of the Vietnam War scenes in Forrest Gump and is now loved for its 5 miles of stunning white sand beaches and characteristic lighthouse. It sees over a million visitors annually and is easily one of the best places to visit in January. You can hike through boardwalks on thousands of acres of marshlands and even climb Hunting Island Lighthouse.

In January, temperatures drop, but if you dress for the weather, you can still enjoy many outdoor activities – just without the crowds. Things like horseback riding on the beach, kayaking, and fossil hunting are all ten times more enjoyable in winter when you have the scenery practically to yourself.

11. White Sands National Park

White Sands National Park is one of the most beautiful places to visit during the holiday season. For a winter break, White Sands National Park is perfect. It is bright white as the world’s largest gypsum dune field – acres upon acres of white crystals. And with its New Mexico location, it is one of the leading warm-weather destinations to pick. Think of it as a hot version of a snow day. It has year-round warm temperatures, and you can go sand sledding, horseback, riding, or on 4WD experiences.

White Sands National Park is also home to the world’s most giant fossilized footprints that date back to the Ice Age, providing more than 20,000 years of humanity in this region. You can stay near Las Cruces or Tularosa or head to El Paso.

12. Big Sky

Montana is beautiful all year round, but January really takes the biscuit. And Big Sky is the state’s highlight. It is renowned as one of the USA’s leading resorts for skiing, and you can spot elk, big horn sheep, and more when you aren’t zipping down slopes at full blast. It is a little luxurious, but we recommend a visit if you fancy a high-end January getaway.

Big Sky is the best place for a ski getaway, and you can also combine it with a visit to Yellowstone National Park. What a win.

13. Hilton Head Island

Hilton Head Island is part of the beautiful South Carolina Lowcountry. It has 12 miles of stunning beaches, a traditional coastline, a classic red and white Harbor Town Lighthouse, and a scenic golf course. Hilton Head Island is somewhere you can escape the hecticness of US cities and embrace a slower pace of life. And it has the bonus of being much less mainstream and quieter in the way of tourists – especially in its January low season.

Temperatures hover at around 60 F on Hilton Head Island, perfect for beach walks so long as you have a couple of layers. Hilton Head Island is the ideal quirky getaway in January if you don’t want intense sun and heat but love coastal scenery. You can even see dolphins.

14. Mammoth Lakes

Mammoth Lakes is a Californian town in the sought-after Sierra Nevada mountains. It is a hotspot for multi-day hiking and stunning alpine views in spring and summer. While in winter, it transforms into a leading getaway for winter snow sports like skiing and snowboarding. From Mammoth Lakes, you can visit the Devil’s Postpile National Monument and see the limestone towers at Mono Lake. Mammoth Lakes isn’t far from Yosemite National Park either, making it an excellent base for a more extended period.

If you fancy a Californian ski break – a phrase you rarely hear – then Mammoth Lakes is your best bet. It is also ideal for exploring eastern California’s attractions that are a little ambitious for fulfilling day trips from LA or San Francisco . Mammoth Lakes is snow sports heaven and an excellent base for day trips.

15. Payette National Forest

Payette National Forest is a 2.3 million-acre forest in Idaho and a beautiful place to hike, camp, and come face-to-face (or as close as comfortable) with hundreds of classic American animals. You can spot deer, elk, mountain lions, bears, coyotes, and cute, small animals like river otters and snowshoe hares. It also creates ‘open play areas’, where suitable vehicles can tackle winter snow tracks. You can just check out the Payette Winter Travel Map for road guidance.

If you want a winter forest getaway in January, snowy Payette National Forest is a brilliant option. It has really accessible forest roads if you have a 4WD with suitable adjustments, and it is really geared up for winter guests with its Winter Travel Map. You can enjoy cross-country skiing and different snow activities as well.

16. Dry Tortugas National Park

Dry Tortugas National Park is a collection of seven islands with a historic Fort Jefferson on the largest. It is also a hotspot for marine life and has some stunning coral reefs. Dry Tortugas National Park is one of the most unique places to visit in the USA, not just in January but all year round. Why? Because it is incredibly challenging to reach, requiring you to charter a boat or seaplane. Most national parks in the USA have nearly millions of visitors, while 80,000 visitors make it to Dry Tortugas National Park annually. You can book  tours from Key West  by ferry or organize private transport, and there’s camping onsite at the Garden Key campground.

January is one of the best times to visit this hard-to-reach park, as the Gulf of Mexico and the Atlantic Ocean are quieter from November to April – e.g., outside of hurricane season.

Aspen is beautiful. The mountain town is a hub of winter activities, and the whole of the USA holds its breath until winter finally arrives at Aspen again. Most of the  best things to do  are snow-related, and you can enjoy superb skiing and snowboarding. That’s not to mention nearby spots like Glenwood Hot Springs, where you can day trip to and enjoy naturally heated pools. When better to do so than in the height of winter?

Aspen is a must if you are a passionate snow sports lover. January is quite busy, as winter is Aspen’s peak season. However, March and December are some of the most active months, so you won’t be absolutely crushed by crowds. Start the new year in style – heading full pelt down an Aspen mountain.

18. Las Vegas

Vegas is an easy one to persuade people to visit. Sin City is one of the most famed cities in the world, and you can gamble, party, and sightsee to your heart’s content. It has a reputation for indulgence, which is easy to see just from looking at the  hotels and places to stay in Las Vegas.  You have everything from casinos to world-class golf courses. Talk about variety.

New Year’s Eve is an intense but insanely fun time to visit Las Vegas , so we’d suggest visiting from late December to early January. However, even late and mid-January have their draws, with plenty of events and action on the Strip. And that’s without factoring in all the fantastic things to do off the Strip, like  day trips  to kayak Emerald Cave and even to the Grand Canyon.

19. Salt Lake City

Salt Lake City is a great winter getaway. The historic city is the capital of Utah and is full of fascinating culture, including Mormon history and religious attractions. Salt Lake City is packed with  things to do , including museums like the Natural History Museum of Utah, Salt Lake Utah Temple, This Is The Place Heritage Park, and the beautiful Red Butte Garden. Salt Lake City is packed with social and cultural history, and attractions are much quieter in its January off-season. You should also consider its fun winter activities, like nearby skiing and snowboarding resorts in its surrounding mountains.

Salt Lake City might not be the first January vacation you have in mind, but it is an excellent option for anyone who likes an adrenaline rush or is interested in Mormonism.

20. Big Island

Big Island is known for its  things to do . The vast island is the largest on the Hawaiian archipelago, and it has everything from a volcano to black sand beaches and beaches renowned for surfing. You can fly to the Big Island directly from most US airports. And when you arrive, you have island town atmospheres and beautiful attractions like the Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park to keep you entertained.

January is the best time to visit Hawaii if you’d like to dodge the crowds, especially the flocks of tourists that come for the sun at Christmas. A warning: January is the wettest month on the Big Island. However, if you book an extended stay to maximize sightseeing opportunities in dry spells and don’t mind the excitement of tropical storms, it is an excellent destination for winter. The Big Island is wet, not cold. The rain actually adds to the dramatic scenery, especially in rainforest areas like Honua’Ula Forest Reserve and Kona Cloud Forest Sanctuary.

21. New Orleans

For southern charm, look no further than swanky and ultra-cool New Orleans. Not familiar with the city? Well, rest assured there are plenty of  things to do . New Orleans is called ‘the Big Easy’ because of its cool vibe, non-stop and colorful nightlife, brilliant cuisine , and great atmosphere. The action compiles heavily on Bourbon Street, a neon street of bars and parties that spill out onto the street. However, you’ve also got swamp tours to spot alligators, snakes, turtles and riverboat cruises to enjoy New Orleans from a waterfront view. And that’s not to mention the jazz and Creole food tours.

You can feel flat in January. That post-festive lull hits most people, and New Orleans is the perfect cure. Upbeat and in your face, the city is precisely the high-energy boost you need to get you out of a January slump.

Hello Miami. After a cold Christmas or busy festive period with relatives, the perfect antidote is a January blast in this coastal city. Miami’s beaches are unrivaled, and even in the height of winter, temperatures can still reach the low 70s. This means you can manage a beach day or two and enjoy a dip in rooftop pools (check out our guide on  where to stay in Miami ). Walk amidst art deco architecture on South Beach and walk through oceanfront parks. Miami’s party scene is never-resting, too, and even in late and mid-January, you’ll be able to enjoy great nights out.

Of course, none of this even factors in the day trip potential from this significant Florida city. You can head to the Everglades, Florida Keys , or north to Fort Lauderdale . Miami is far from just a cut-and-paste city break. It is a base to enjoy Florida and its highlights while making the most of January’s fewer crowds.

23. Charleston

Charleston is best known for the Charleston dance, but the South Carolina city also has the first college, museum, playhouse, and golf course in the USA. Charleston is a hub of history and one of the most fascinating city breaks you can take in the country. It is the oldest city in South Carolina and was established in its present location in 1680 before being renamed Charleston from Charles Town in 1783. And in January, you can enjoy light snow flurries and barely any crowds. It is the perfect time to visit a city that offers many museums and indoor attractions – like the Gibbes Museum of Art, High Wire Distillery, and the Charleston Museum.

There’s plenty to do and see in this underrated city. The city is easily accessible by Amtrak, flight, and car.

24. New York City

You don’t need us to tell you that you are never short of  things to do in New York . This city is one of the best places you can visit in winter in the world – not just in the USA. The mega city is full of festive cheer and sparkling lights, especially if you stay in early January to catch the end of Christmas markets and decorations. Mid and late January are also great, with post-Christmas shopping sales and more attractions reopening. Plus, you can see all the classic attractions , like Central Park, the Statue of Liberty, and the 9/11 Memorial.

You can easily find places to stay in New York , and for extra inspiration, see our guide on  where to stay in New York . It is a popular January vacation for great reason.

25. Amelia Island

Amelia Island is one of the  best weekend getaways in Florida , yet this beautiful barrier island is almost criminally overlooked internationally. The island has 13 miles of coastline, quiet in summer and deserted in winter. If you want a beach getaway with zero crowds, Amelia Island is a beautiful idea and one of your best choices. You don’t need a car to get around once you arrive at Amelia Island, and you can spend your vacation leisurely walking or biking around with stunning scenery.

Other activities on Amelia Island include swimming, kayaking, and bird watching. You can spot tons of wildlife, too. There are alligators, bobcats, turtles, and river otters. There are even bald eagles – the last thing you’d expect on a sandy barrier island. Amelia Island has one of Florida’s most unique coastal ecosystems and is a haven for nature lovers.

Who doesn’t love Sedona? This Arizona desert town is much loved for all its  amazing things to do , which include hiking through red rock buttes and visiting Montezuma Castle National Monument. Sedona is also ideally located for a day trip to see the Grand Canyon, and you can enjoy the ski activities in Flagstaff in winter – just without those unbearable crowds. Sedona is basically the quieter Flagstaff alternative. And if you are confident driving in icy and snowy conditions and happy to rent a 4WD, you’ll love Sedona in January. The  hikes in Sedona  and the number of potential day trips are unreal.

For more inspiration, check out the leading  hotels in Sedona . There are many places to stay, although book in advance because it is still a popular place to visit in January, despite Flagstaff getting the most attention. Remember to check out the Sedona Heritage Museum, Seven Sacred Pools, and all the art galleries.

FAQs: Places to Spend January in the USA

As you can see, January is best spent in the USA. Any of these 26 best places to visit in January will treat you to a fantastic time – whether you head to Aspen for winter sports, New Orleans for city culture, or Amelia Island for beaches. Before you go, though, check out these FAQs. You never know which bit of information could make all the difference.

What is the best state to go to in January?

If you want sun, you should head to Florida or California. If you’d prefer a snowy January vacation, head to Colorado, Montana, South Carolina, or New York.

Where in the US is it warm in January?

California and Florida are both still warm in January. Arizona, Nevada, and Hawaii are also good choices for chasing warm weather.

Where is a good time to travel in January?

You can usually snag deals in early January – especially if you are willing to fly on the dreaded New Year’s Day. However, as a whole, the month is exceptionally modest in terms of budgeting for flights. And mid January should be when most attractions that close during holidays reopen.

Where is it warm to travel in January outside the US?

Anywhere in the southern hemisphere is a great option when looking for warm places outside the US to visit in January. Australia is in its peak summer at this time. South America and Central America are also hot at this time, and even some countries in Europe, like Cyprus, experience mild weather at this time.

Do you want a winter wonderland? Or a beautiful beach that you can bask on? There are so many incredible USA destinations to visit in January. We’ve worked hard to limit this guide to just the best 26. The diversity of the USA comes to light in January, and you can see the full scale of what the country offers tourists.

The USA has everything from winter outdoor activities at snowy resort towns to tropical paradises like the Big Island and stunning red rock scenery like Zion National Park. And that’s before we even mention city breaks – hello, New York and Las Vegas. The winter months really highlight these dramatically different experiences in the USA.

Hopefully, you are now excited to head off on your January holiday. Before you do, remember to check out our list of the  50 best places you can visit in the USA . We’ve also got resources on the  best national parks ,  beaches ,  hikes , and  road trips in the USA . We are super passionate about US travel, and our goal is to keep you as informed as possible, with all the best information just a click away. Have a fantastic time wherever you visit in January.

Plan Your Trip to the USA in January With These Resources

• 27 Best National Parks in the USA To Visit
• 28 Best Beaches in the USA
• 16 Best Cities in California
• Discovering the 19 Best Beaches in Florida: Sun, Sand, and Serenity

Travel Planning Resources

Looking to book your next trip? Why not use these resources that are tried and tested by yours truly.

Flights: Start planning your trip by finding the best flight deals on Skyscanner

Book your Hotel: Find the best prices on hotels with these two providers. If you are located in Europe use Booking.com and if you are anywhere else use TripAdvisor

Find Apartment Rentals: You will find the cheapest prices on apartment rentals with VRBO . 

Travel Insurance: Don't leave home without it. Here is what we recommend:

• Allianz - Occasional Travelers.
• Medjet - Global air medical transport and travel security.

Need more help planning your trip? Make sure to check out our Resources Page where we highlight all the great companies that we trust when we are traveling.

You May Also Like

Where to Stay in Los Angeles: A First Timers Guide to The Best Places

25 Best Things To Do in Salt Lake City, Utah: Our Recommendations

25 Best Weekend Getaways in The USA (2024)

About ThePlanetD Team

Guest writers for The Planet D offer insider tips and information on destinations that they are experts in. We can't be everywhere at once, and it is important to have the highest level of travel information from local writers and experienced travelers.

Join thousands of others who get our monthly updates!

Leave a comment cancel reply.

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

2 thoughts on “26 Best Places To Visit In January USA (2024)”

Thanks for the valuable info, Great Share !!

This blog provides an extensive list of 26 diverse and exciting places to visit in the USA during the month of January. It categorizes the destinations into various themes, such as warm beaches, snowy resorts, and cultural cities, offering readers a range of options based on their preferences. Each location is accompanied by a brief description, highlighting unique attractions and activities.

The list covers a wide spectrum of destinations, from well-known cities like New York and Miami to less-explored gems like Amelia Island and Sedona. The blog emphasizes the advantages of traveling in January, including fewer crowds and the opportunity to experience attractions at their best.

The inclusion of frequently asked questions (FAQs) at the end provides additional helpful information for readers planning their January trips, such as the best states for specific weather preferences and tips for finding budget-friendly options.

Overall, the blog is well-organized, informative, and offers a comprehensive guide for readers looking to plan a memorable January getaway in the USA.

22 of the BEST Places in the USA to Visit in January

12/10/2023 by Ashley Yap 1 Comment

After the December holidays, tourism slows down throughout the US, making January a fantastic time to explore a new place. Prices are generally lower, meaning you might be able to snag a great deal on accommodations and flights. 

When deciding where to travel this January, consider whether you want to embrace a wintry wonderland along with its freezing temps, or head somewhere a bit warmer for a break from the cold. This list has a bit of each, including beaches, uncrowded national parks, nippy cities, and more:

Table of Contents

Off the Mainland

1. big island, hawai’i.

If you tend to get the winter scaries and are looking for the perfect tropical destination this January, there’s no better place than the Big Island of Hawai’i . Not only does the  Big Island have some incredible beaches and places to stay , but there are also some fantastic  snorkeling spots  and gorgeous hikes as well (here’s a full itinerary ).

The Big Island is home to a diverse ecosystem that offers visitors an incredible variety of scenery. From the beaches and the mountains to waterfalls to lookout points, it has it all. It’s also a hub for  spiritual and transformative experiences .

So, why the Big Island in January? First of all, escaping the frigid temperatures of winter is an enticing proposal. (You won’t be the only one with this idea though, as winter is one of the most popular  times to visit Hawai’i . Compared to November and December, however, January is a bit less crowded.) There’s also less rainfall that month, so it’s just right for all the  outdoor activities you can do . Plus, humpback whale season is also in full swing this month, giving you another reason to go.

2. Fairbanks, Alaska

It might sound completely bonkers to go to  Alaska in the winter , but hear me out (or check out our Alaska guide ). If you don’t mind bundling up and braving the cold, Fairbanks is an incredibly magical place in January. During this time, there’s a chance you can catch a glimpse of the aurora borealis, aka the northern lights. Plus, it’s a fantastic time to  check out the Chena hot springs  and go  dog sledding .

In Fairbanks, you can fully immerse yourself in an icy wonderland.  Check out the Aurora Ice Museum  to see some spectacular sculptures, or embark on an epic  snowmobiling adventure . There’s plenty  to do in Fairbanks  this January for anyone who wants to fully experience Alaskan winter in all its snowy glory.

3. Olympic National Park, Washington

There’s a lot to love about winter in the PNW. The moody coastline, sparkling trees heavy with newly fallen snow, and white mountain peaks are all features of  Olympic National Park  in Washington during the month of January. Although some parts of the park are closed in the winter months, most of it remains open to explore.

If you’re hoping to get out and about, there are plenty of  hikes in Olympic National Park  to choose from. One of them is Hurricane Ridge, where you can go snowshoeing, skiing, tubing, or snowboarding. The coastal hikes are also great in the wintertime, as you can easily walk along the shore, like Rialto Beach . Just make sure to go during low tide, as the winter waves can be treacherous and unpredictable during high tide. Check out other national parks in Washington here .

4. Crater Lake National Park, Oregon

Crater Lake in Oregon is a magnificent site any time of year, although the snowy weather of January makes it extra special. From cross-country skiing to snowshoeing, sledding, snowboarding, and snowmobiling, there are plenty of  winter activities to enjoy here . Although this area gets more snow than most other places in the US, the park remains open throughout the winter months. 

There’s a chance that you may encounter some road closures if there’s heavy snowfall, which will make it difficult to impossible to reach the lake itself, so make sure to check  weather conditions  before you depart. If you are able to make it to the rim of the majestic lake, the wintertime view is nothing short of spectacular.

5. Mammoth Lakes, California

The Mammoth Lakes region in California is one of the state’s most popular destinations for skiing. However, there’s much more  to do in Mammoth Lakes in the winter . Most notably, checking out the hot springs here is a must in January. When there’s snow on the ground, they are extra steamy and even more beautiful than in the warmer months. Plus, they’re not as crowded during this time of year, so you’ll have a better chance of getting to soak solo.

Within Mammoth Lakes, some of the best spots in January are Convict Lake for a gorgeous view of the mountains reflected on the water, the Hot Creek Geological site for a magical steamy scene, and Mono Lake for a truly unique landscape and salty water that doesn’t freeze. Most places will be quite snowy this time of year, so pack snowshoes for easier access.

6. Death Valley National Park, California & Nevada

The  California deserts  are ideal in the winter months, especially in January, when the mild temperatures make exploring more accessible — in the warmer months, some spots like Death Valley are simply too scorching to hike through safely.

The desert landscapes in Death Valley National Park are almost otherworldly. From the subtle color spectrum of the Artist’s Palette to the salty Badwater Basin and the smooth Mesquite Flat sand dunes, there is  plenty for nature lovers to enjoy in Death Valley . The most popular trek in the park is the  Golden Canyon hike , which is great to do in the winter, because it’s the only time of year when the heat isn’t completely overwhelming.

If you’re thinking of heading to Death Valley this January, check out this  guide to finding the best places to stay and camp  in and around the park.

7. Lake Tahoe, California & Nevada

If you thought  Lake Tahoe was perfect for summer , you’re in for a treat when you see how much there is to do here in the winter.  January in Lake Tahoe  is ideal for travelers who adore outdoor activities like skiing, snowshoeing, snowmobiling, sleigh riding, dog sledding, ice skating, photography , and more. 

The weather is cold, with highs barely reaching the mid 40s, so prepare yourself with plenty of warm layers, so you can fully embrace Lake Tahoe’s beauty and outdoor activities .

Lake Tahoe is shared by both California and Nevada, and has two distinct regions: North and South. North Tahoe is more laid-back and has less development overall, making it better for January travelers who want to escape and connect with nature. South Tahoe has more accommodations and restaurants to choose from, but you might find the ski crowds there. (Click here for the best boutique hotels in Lake Tahoe , and find all our Lake Tahoe articles here .)

8. Kirkham Hot Springs, Idaho

In case you can’t tell, I’m a big fan of hot springs in the wintertime. There’s something so soothing about dipping into a hot pool when the outside air is frigid, with steam rising up from the water so beautifully. Some of the  best hot springs in the USA are in Idaho , and  Kirkham Hot Springs  is a strong contender for the very best of all.

Kirkham, Idaho , is relatively uncrowded in the winter months, which makes it such a great spot to visit in January, as there’s a chance you could have the springs to yourself. The pools sit right next to a flowing river, with snowcapped mountains in the background. The scenery alone is a beautiful sight, but being able to admire it from a steaming natural pool makes it even more idyllic. 

9. Moab, Utah

If you’ve been dreaming of seeing Arches or Canyonlands National Park but are discouraged by the thick crowds of high season (March through October), consider going in January. Winters are cold in Moab, Utah , with highs in the 40s and lows in the 20s, but the potential of having beautiful rock formations to yourself and lower rates on accommodation might be worth it.

There’s plenty  to do and see in Moab , such as taking in the iconic Delicate Arch in  Arches National Park , catching a sunrise at Mesa Arch in Canyonlands, or grabbing a bite at the Moab Food Truck Park. Moab is also an essential stop on any  Utah national parks road trip . 

10. White Sands National Park, New Mexico

If you want to get far off the beaten path this January, there’s no better destination than White Sands National Park in New Mexico . It’s the world’s largest gypsum sand dune field, spanninng 275 miles in the middle of the desert. The dunes here are unlike anywhere else in the US; you can even climb to the top and sled down if you’d like. Goingn in January means enjoying milder temperatures, but make sure to still bring plenty of sun protection, as there is absolutely no shade once you venture outside of the visitors’ center.

Unlike most national parks that are open 24/7, White Sands has  operating hours  that vary from season to season. The best time to go is right before sunset, as the scenery is phenomenal when the sun goes down. Shadows cast from the dunes create beautiful patterns in the sand, and the whole place glows with different hues. This national park rarely becomes crowded in general, but January yields even fewer guests. Chances are, you’ll get a whole sand dune to yourself! Find out everything you need to know about  visiting White Sands National Park here .

11. Albuquerque, New Mexico

If you’re taking a  road trip through New Mexico , chances are you’ll start in Albuquerque or at least pass through. This quirky city deserves to be a destination all on its own, however, as there’s plenty  to do in Albuquerque.  From Breaking Bad  filming locations to  taking a hot-air balloon ride  over the Sandia Mountains, Albuquerque is full of adventure.

Visiting Albuquerque in January is a great option for anyone who wants to escape frigid winter temperatures but doesn’t mind a little chill. This month offers mild temperatures, with highs barely reaching the 50s but rarely dipping below 30 degrees. Bring some layers and you’ll be good to go. 

12. Breckenridge, Colorado

This is one for those of you out there who truly want to embrace winter and all the outdoor activities that you can do in the snow. Breckenridge, Colorado , is one of the USA’s most prominent ski towns, so it’s no surprise that January is the ideal time to visit. Sure, it might be a bit crowded, but the sunny skies and abundance of events this month make it worth it.

One of the best winter events in Breckenridge is the  International Snow Sculpture Championships  at the end of January. This month also sees the most snowfall of the year, which makes it a great time for skiing, snowshoeing, sleigh riding, dogsledding, snowmobiling, and more.

13. Chicago, Illinois

You might think I’m insane for adding this, but Chicago is my hometown, and I think there’s something  special about every season here . Not convinced? Although summertime in Chicago, Illinois , is exciting and the weather is fantastic for outdoor activities, visiting the Windy City in January is perfect for  grabbing a deal on hotels  and visiting world-class museums  (some are even free!) . 

Chicago winters are brutal, but if you’re prepared for the cold, it doesn’t have to be such a deterrent. Wear plenty of warm layers and take advantage of all the amazing  things to do in Chicago  that are indoors. Catch a production at the Chicago Theatre, see a comedy show at The Second City, visit the Art Institute, or get your adrenaline pumping by standing on a glass platform 95 floors in the air at 360° Chicago. The options are endless for things you can do here in the wintertime, so why not take advantage of the cheapest prices of the year by visiting in January?

14. South Dakota road trip

If you’re going to see South Dakota in the winter, you’re in for a snowy wonderland of alpine sports and activities. But if you want to see a bit of the country, the best way to do so is on a road trip. We’ve got you covered with this three-day road trip itinerary through all the best parts of this Midwest state. You’ll stop at Sioux Falls (if you go in early January, you’ll catch the Sioux Falls Winter Wonderland ), Badlands National Park , Rapid City , and Black Hills National Forest , where you’ll stop at the iconic Mount Rushmore .

The temperatures vary from 10 to 30 degrees F and can dip into the extremes. Though it’s unlikely that you will see the northern lights in South Dakota, they have been observed here before.

15. Big Bend National Park, Texas

You might recognize Big Bend from other lists of  where to visit in the USA by month . The truth is, there’s really not a  bad  time to  visit Big Bend National Park , one of the most underrated in the US. There are rarely large crowds any time of year, but this is especially true in January. You’ll love having some solitude here, as the landscapes are delightful and the night sky is perfect for  stargazing . Does it get any more peaceful than that?

Although January is the coldest month in Big Bend, temperatures still hover in the high 60s and barely dip below the 40s. That means camping is totally doable this month. With four  campgrounds  to choose from, you’ll have plenty of options.

16. Nashville, Tennessee

Visiting Nashville is a fantastic option for travelers looking to save money on their January vacation. Not only are there a ton of  free things to do in the Music City , but Nashville also made our list of the  cheapest vacations in the US  because of the affordable accommodations and generous portions at restaurants.

January also marks the middle of Nashville’s low season, meaning prices are even better than usua l, and there’s a good chance you’ll get a deal on airfare as well. There may not be as many live shows during this time, and the nightlife scene won’t be as vibrant, but that could be a draw for travelers who are looking to have a more laid-back experience.

Nashville winters are chilly, with temperatures peaking in the high 40s during the day and plunging to as low as 28 degrees at night. If you’re coming from further north, however, this might be warmer than the January temps you’re used to. 

17. Louisville, Kentucky

Louisville  is perhaps one of the most underrated small cities in the US. Not only is there tons to do here, but the city is famous for its warm Southern hospitality and cultural diversity. 

January is chilly in Louisville, but there are a few reasons why it’s a great time to visit. There’s an ice rink at 4th Street Live where you can go skating throughout the winter. Since holiday crowds have died down by then, it’s also a great time to take advantage of the city’s excellent museums, such as the Louisville Slugger Museum and the Kentucky Derby Museum. Here you can also find the Seelbach Hilton Hotel, which was a  favorite place of Al Capone’s . Louisville is full of interesting history like this, which you can get an earful of on a  walking tour .

18. Atlanta, Georgia

There is just as much  to do in Atlanta  in January as there is any other time of year. The weather here is mild, with average highs in the 50s and occasional 70-degree days. That means you can enjoy outdoor spots like Atlantic Green, the Atlanta Belt Line, and the Autrey Mill Nature Preserve and Heritage Center this month. In case you encounter rain, there are also plenty of museums and other indoor attractions, like the Atlanta Contemporary Art Museum , the Fernbank Science Center, and the Atlanta History Center.

Although the weather is a plus, January in Atlanta is extra special because of the Martin Luther King Jr. celebrations throughout the city. From the parade downtown to the festivities at the King Center, you’ll see why ATL is the place to be in January. Other events include the Cathedral Antiques Show and Tour of Homes as well. 

19. Charleston, South Carolina

Tourism in Charleston continues to rise each year, and for good reason. This charming city is full of historical richness, amazing food, and excellent hospitality. Dare I say more? Although Charleston is booming right now, the winter months remain quiet here, making January a fantastic time to visit.

Charleston’s weather this month is ideal if you’re looking to escape the cold. Temperatures hover around 60 degrees, with chillier nights and mornings. 

This is also the best time for foodies, as the city celebrates  restaurant week  in January. Even if you don’t go during that week, the dip in tourism means you’ll have a better chance at getting a table at popular restaurants that are usually booked up in the spring and summer months.

20. Orlando, Florida

I’m here to break the news: Orlando is so much more than Disney World, especially solo ! Central Florida is home to abundant natural springs with crystal-clear water, some of which look bright baby blue in the sunlight. One of the best is the  Rock Springs swimming hole , just a 35-minute drive outside of Orlando. That is just the beginning of all the beautiful places there are to see in and around the city. Wekiwa Springs State Park, Seminole State Forest , and Lake Apopka Wildlife Drive are all within an hour’s drive. 

Since January is cooler than most of the year yet still warm enough to enjoy all kinds of outdoor activities, it’s a great time to visit. It’s also low season for the theme parks, so you can enjoy fewer crowds if you decide to go. Low season also comes with lower rates on accommodation, and you can save even more by checking out  Orlando’s many free activities and attractions .

21. Florida Keys road trip

There’s nothing like a gorgeously warm road trip through the Florida Keys , and January is an amazing time to discover this Caribbean part of the USA. There are five main keys you want to explore: Key Largo , Islamorada , Marathon , Big Pine , and of course, Key West . Along the way, you’ll find beautiful snorkeling , relaxing beaches , exciting tours and excursions , and convenient places to stay (click here for accommodations in Key Largo , Marathon , and Key West ).

January is a popular time in the Florida Keys because most people head south for their winter vacations. It will be a little chilly, especially if a nor’easter blows through, so be sure to pack a sweater for when you’re on the water. You can expect rates to be a little higher, but with so many fun things to do , it just might be worth it.

22. Boston, Massachusetts

Although the winters in Boston can be harsh, this historic city maintains its enchanting quality the whole year. Since one of the main draws is the plethora of museums and historical sites, you don’t have to spend too much time outside in the cold, as most of them are indoors.

If you get lucky with sunny weather, though, you can also check out the Freedom Trail , which is 2.5 miles long and has 16 historical sites, with plenty of opportunities to duck into a building to warm up. Since this is one of Boston’s most popular tourist attractions, it can get crowded in the spring through the fall, so January is ideal.

Another reason to visit Boston in January is to get a  tour of Fenway Park , since it’s the off-season for the Red Sox. Even if you aren’t a baseball fan, the stadium is full of historical relics and stories.

I have to admit that I tend to hibernate in January, as the cold keeps me indoors and snuggled up at home. However, there are so many places to visit in January in the USA that sound so exciting that I might just have to venture out and explore. 

Which of these destinations sounds the best to you?

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

 subscribe to our newsletter

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Ruby Stacey says

11/30/2022 at 9:29 am

Great article, thank you for sharing this.

16 Of The Best National Parks To Visit In January

Many of the nation’s most popular parks find their crowded trails nearly empty come winter.

This provides a great opportunity to see these incredible sites in a more peaceful, crowd-free setting.

Considering a winter getaway and wondering which national park is best to visit in January?

Read on for the best national parks in January, this list includes a mix of warm and cold parks

Those seeking a winter wonderland, tropical getaway, or an easy destination close to home are sure to find the perfect park.

Table of Contents

The Best National Parks To Visit In January 

Everglades national park.

• Location: Florida 
• Weather in January: 76° / 56° (Average High/ Low F°)
• Is The Entire Park Open In Winter? Yes

Everglades National Park encompasses over 1.5 million acres of wetlands, making it the  largest  subtropical wilderness in the United States and one of the largest in North America.

Here you’ll find endangered and protected species like the American alligator, Florida panther, and West Indian manatee.  

This massive park can be explored through hikes, boat and paddle tours, camping trips, and so much more. 

Mild temperatures and less bugs make this the most popular season in the park.

Additionally, it happens to be one of the best times to spot wildlife. Water levels drop in winter, drawing large numbers of animals to congregate around remnant water holes.

Things To Do In Everglades National Park During Winter

• Watch for gators (and birds!) along the park’s trails.
• Tram or bike Shark Valley Road.
• Go for an airboat, canoe, or kayak tour.

Death Valley National Park

• Location: Southern California/ Nevada  
• Weather in January: 67° / 40° (Average High/ Low F°)

Sitting in a below-sea-level basin this is the hottest, driest, and lowest national park in the United States.

Yet, despite the extreme nature, the landscape is surprisingly diverse, great for hiking and sightseeing… Well, in winter that is. 

Death Valley regularly sees highs above 100°F in the summer months. Avoid the nauseating heat and visit this park in winter instead.

You’ll find cool days, chilly nights, and hardly any precipitation.

Plus, with snow-capped peaks in the distance, winter is especially beautiful for exploring the valley. 

Things To Do In Death Valley National Park During Winter

• Take in the views of Badwater Basin from Dante’s View.
• Witness the uniquely colored Artist’s Palette.
• Explore the Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes.

Looking for more warm weather parks? Check out The Warmest National Parks In Winter .

Yellowstone National Park

• Location: Wyoming / Montana / Idaho  
• Weather in January: 28° / 3° (Average High/ Low F°)
• Is The Entire Park Open In Winter? No

Yellowstone is known for geothermal wonders and top-notch wildlife — we’re talking wolves, grizzlies, and buffaloes.

It’s an incredible park, but crowds can be a major challenge during summer and fall.

In the winter months Yellowstone National Park is covered in snow, leaving only one road open.

This means snowmobiles, snowcoaches, and skis are the main means of transportation around here. 

The result, a very quiet park in winter.

This is definitely one of the most extreme national parks, so if you’re up for a serious winter adventure, Yellowstone should be calling your name.

Things To Do In Yellowstone National Park During Winter

• Join a guided to tour to see the park’s most famous attractions, such as Old Faithful and Grand Prismatic Spring.
• Spend the day snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, or ice skating.
• Wrap up in blankets, grab a hot chocolate, and keep an eye out for the abundance of wildlife found in Yellowstone National Park. 

Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park 

• Location: Hawaii  
• Weather in January: 68° / 49° (Average High/ Low F°)

Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park contains the summits of two of the world’s most active volcanoes, Kīlauea and Mauna Loa.

Here lava trickles from the volcanos summit, standing over 13,000 feet above sea level, down to the Pacific Ocean.  

These massive peaks cover 6 climate zones, meaning there’s a huge diversity of things to see in Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park.

Thanks to reduced humidity, less rainfall, and relatively fewer crowds, January is a lovely time of year to visit Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park.

Plus, who doesn’t want an excuse to escape winter weather and visit Hawaii this winter?

Things To Do In Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park During Winter

• See the lava flow — with some luck!
• Walk through Thurston Lava Tube.
• Go for a scenic drive on Crater Rim Drive.

Grand Teton National Park

• Location: Wyoming  
• Weather in January: 25° / 0° (Average High/ Low F°)

The Tetons are incredible, jagged mountains which especially shine when blanketed in snow.

The park is famed not only for its incredibly picturesque peaks, but also an abundance of alpine lakes, open meadows, and excellent variety of wildlife — especially moose.

This park is packed come summer, but you can expect very minimal crowds from Grand Teton National Park in January.

Things To Do In Grand Teton National Park During Winter

• Spend a day snowmobiling.
• Enjoy cross-country skiing or snowshoeing across Lake Jenny.
• Join a ranger-led snowshoeing tour.
• Watch for wildlife or brush up on your photography skills in this incredible winter wonderland. 

Carlsbad Caverns National Park 

• Location: New Mexico  
• Weather in January: 53° / 30° (Average High/ Low F°)

Located in the Chihuahuan Desert of southern New Mexico, is Carlsbad Caverns National Park.

Featuring over 100 caves covered in stalactites and huge underground chambers, this is one of the most unique national parks in the United States. 

The caves of Carlsbad Cavern see a constant temperature of 59°F — no matter the time of year.

Add in mild temperatures outside the cave, and you’ve got yourself a great winter national park.

Despite the pleasant weather, this national park still sees a slump in January.

This means it’s a great time to get a more personalized experience during your visit to Carlsbad Cavern National Park.

Things To Do In Carlsbad Caverns National Park During Winter

• Join a ranger-led tour through the caves.
• Enjoy a quiet hike on one of the desert hiking trails.
• Go stargazing, the night sky here is incredible and Carlsbad Cavern is currently working on earning its designation as an International Dark Skies Park.

Dry Tortugas National Park

• Weather in January: 74° / 65° (Average High/ Low F°)

Seven remote islands with beautiful white, sandy beaches and abundant coral reefs make up Dry Tortugas National Park.

Here you may just find sunken gold treasure — or more likely an abundance of sea turtles — as you partake in an epic snorkel or diving excursion.

Winter here sees dry, mild weather, minimal crowds, and migrating birds.

Trade the snow shovel for snorkel gear, and head to Dry Tortugas National Park this January.

Note: Dry Tortugas is 70 miles from the Florida Keys and only accessible by ferry or seaplane.

Things To Do In Dry Tortugas National Park During Winter

• Snorkel or scuba dive.
• Explore Fort Jefferson.
• Swim at South Swim Beach.
• Hike and watch for wildlife on Garden Key.

Looking for more East Coast winter vacation ideas? Check out The Best East Coast Winter Vacation Destinations

Gateway Arch National Park 

• Location: Missouri  
• Weather in January: 40° / 21° (Average High/ Low F°)

Another unconventional national park is Gateway Arch National Park, at only 91 acres this is the nation’s smallest.

Not-surprisingly, the park’s star is the massive 630 foot, stainless steel arch, dubbed the Gateway to the West.

This engineering marvel is not only the tallest monument in the United States, but also marks the starting point of the Lewis and Clark Expedition. 

January in St. Louis is cold, yes, however temperatures inside the arch are toasty and warm.

Where you’ll normally find long lines for exhibits and attractions, it’s anything but come winter in Gateway Arch National Park. 

Things To Do In Gateway Arch National Park During Winter

• Ride the tram to the top of the arch.
• Snap a picture under the arch — without the usual crowds!
• Visit the Museum at the Gateway Arch.

Bryce Canyon National Park

• Location: Utah  
• Weather in January: 36° / 11° (Average High/ Low F°)

Bryce Canyon National Park is one of Utah’s most stunning.

It’s famous for a giant amphitheater covered in red, spire-like rock formations called hoodoos.

At 9,100 feet above sea level, this park sees a lot of snow (which contributes to how the hoodoos are formed!) resulting in an incredible sight of contrasting colors. 

Winter is a fantastic time to visit Bryce Canyon National Park, thanks to fewer crowds and incredible scenery.

Witnessing the red, hoodoo-filled canyon blanketed in snow is a sight you’ll never forget.

Things To Do In Bryce Canyon National Park During Winter

• Admire the snow-covered hoodoos from Sunset and Sunrise Viewpoints.
• Hike into the snowy canyon following Queens Garden Loop via Navajo Loop.
• Visit ice-covered Mossy Cave.

Check out Bryce Canyon National Park Winter Guide for more ideas.

National Park Of American Samoa

• Location: United States territory of American Samoa 
• Weather in January: 84° / 73° (Average High/ Low F°)

National Park of the American Samoa’s prime location near the equator should be all the explanation you need regarding why this is one of the best winter national parks.

This park spans three islands — Tutuila, Ofu, and Ta’ū — preserving and and protecting tropical rainforests, wildlife, coral reefs, and the Samoan culture.

While I admit, this is quite the trip from mainland USA, the landscapes are like nothing found at home.

Witnessing the beauty of the National Park of American Samoa is a once in a lifetime experience. 

Things To Do In National Park of American Samoa During Winter

• Enjoy birdwatching and wildlife viewing.
• Spend the day snorkeling — there’s over 200 species of coral found in the area!
• Lounge out at the beach.

Cuyahoga Valley National Park

• Location: Ohio 
• Weather in January: 35° / 22° (Average High/ Low F°)

Along the Cuyahoga River, between the cities of Cleveland and Akron, lies Cuyahoga Valley National Park.

The park protects a historic section of the Ohio and Erie Canal’s original towpath.

But more importantly, it represents the successful conservation of this fragile landscape. 

The park has several great waterfalls, and lots of room for winter recreation such as snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. 

January in Cuyahoga Valley National Park sees smaller crowds and excellent outdoor recreation for winter lovers.

Plus, its central location, straddling the East Coast and Midwest, makes this an easy and quick winter getaway.

Just be sure to bundle up!

Things To Do In Cuyahoga Valley National Park During Winter

• Go sledding in the Kendall Hills area.
• Go snowshoeing on the 125 miles of trails open year-round.
• Try out cross-country skiing or ice fishing.

White Sands National Park 

• Weather in January: 57° / 22° (Average High/ Low F°)

White Sands National Park, located in southern New Mexico’s Tularosa Basin, is home to the worlds largest gypsum dune field.

Whether you prefer hiking, sand-sledding, silence and solidarity, or catching a really good sunset, there’s something everyone can enjoy in this exceptionally unique park.

The bright white sand of Sand Dunes National Park has an intensity thats hard to describe, and can be absolutely brutal under the summer sun.

Skip this park in the warmer months and explore it in January when the highs average around the mid 50°Fs and low 60°Fs. 

Things To Do In White Sands National Park During Winter

• Spend the day sand sledding on the seemingly endless dunes available.
• Hike the sand dunes or Dune Life Nature Trail.
• Enjoy an epic sunset.

You May Also Like: White Sands National Park: One Day Guide

Mammoth Cave National Park

• Location: Kentucky  
• Weather in January: 45° / 26° (Average High/ Low F°)

The world’s largest known cave system can be found in Kentucky’s Mammoth Cave National Park.

Over 400 miles of the cave have been mapped and explored.

As hard as it is to believe, the cave is expected to be even double the size of what we know today!

A constant cave temperature of about 54°F makes Mammoth Cave National Park a desirable destination year-round.

Visiting in January, however, comes with the added bonus of less crowds and ultimately a more personalized tour experience. 

Things To Do In Mammoth Cave National Park During Winter

• Go for a cave tour (there are a number available even in winter months).
• See the incredible natural entrance of Mammoth Cave.
• Check out their highly informative Visitor Center.

Sequoia National Park

• Location: California  
• Weather in January: 37° / 18° (Average High/ Low F°)

Famed for giant sequoia trees — the largest in the world — vast cave systems, deep canyons, and huge mountains, Sequoia National Park is one you definitely don’t want to miss.

The park is an incredible site when covered in snow, it’s something everyone should see at least once.

January offers the unique opportunity to see this park blanketed in a wintery wonderland, plus experience the normally crowded trails with just a handful of other visitors.

Things To Do In Sequoia National Park During Winter

• Stand among the giant sequoias on the Big Trees Trail.
• Snowshoe Congress Trail.
• Enjoy winter activities such as sledding in the Wolverton Snowplay Area. 

Saguaro National Park

• Location: Arizona  
• Weather in January: 66° / 39° (Average High/ Low F°)

Saguaro National Park is home to the nation’s largest cactus, you guessed it, the saguaro cactus.

This desert environment is perfect for winter hikes among vast cacti filled valleys, wildlife sightings, and epic sunsets. 

With average highs in the 100°F’s, Saguaro National Park is too hot to properly enjoy in the summer months.

Winter is usually sunny with mild temperatures, perfect for enjoying the park’s longer hikes and expansive desert views. 

Best Things To Do In Saguaro National Park During Winter 

• Admire the staggering saguaro cacti from the Valley View Trail, Signal Hill Petroglyph Trail, or the Bajada Loop.
• Spend a morning biking popular road routes through this unique park.
• Catch a breathtaking sunset, this national park is known for having some of the best. 

Haleakala National Park

• Weather in January: 61° / 44° (Average High/ Low F°)

The final park on this list of best national parks to visit in January is Maui’s Haleakala National Park.

This Hawaiian park covers a huge variety of landscapes, from the highest peak in Maui to the coastal area of Kīpahulu.

Plus waterfalls, freshwater pools, and bamboo forests.

Most importantly, the park also protects endangered species, some of which are endemic to the island. 

Haleakala National Park is great for a January visit due to dry, mild weather and the absence of summer crowds.

Ditch the mainland’s cooler temperatures and head to the tropical paradise that is Hawaii.

Things To Do In Haleakala National Park During Winter

• Stand above the clouds and watch the sunrise from the summit of Haleakala.
• Hike the Haleakala Crater.
• Hike the The Pīpīwai Trail to see multiple waterfalls and a bamboo forest.
• See the incredible cascading pools and waterfalls of The Seven Sacred Pools of ‘Ohe’o.

In the United States we are so lucky to have such a diverse mix of national parks, and the winter season can be a great time to see them!

I hope you’ve found this list of best national parks to visit in January to be helpful.

Any questions or additional information? Please leave a comment below!

If you’d like to follow along with my travels in real time, check out  @seen.by.amy  on Instagram or  @seenbyamy  on TikTok!

Looking for more ideas? Below are additional national park guides or head on over to the National Park Service . Otherwise, check out 15 National Parks To Visit This Winter .

Additional National Park Guides:

• Warmest National Parks In Winter
• 15 National Parks To Visit This Winter
• Rocky Mountain National Park: Things To Do In Winter
• Bryce Canyon National Park Winter Guide
• Colorado National Parks Road Trip Itinerary
• Grand Canyon National Park – South Rim: One Day Here
• Zion National Park: 2 Day Itinerary
• Olympic Peninsula Weekend Guide
• Arches National Park: One Day Here
• White Sands National Park: One Day Here
• National Park Gift Ideas: Perfect For National Park Lovers

Hey! I’m Amy, author of this article and owner of this website. I've lived in Denver, Chicago, New York, Utah, and Arizona. I’ve visited almost all 50 states, and traveled in nearly a dozen countries. I enjoy writing about places I've lived and the many incredible destinations I've visited worldwide. My hope is that my love for travel will inspire others to see more of this beautiful planet.

Disclaimer: This post may contain commissionable links, these are at no extra cost to you, thank you for your support.

Keep Up With Amy!

Subscribe for the latest updates in your inbox.

You have successfully joined our subscriber list.

• Privacy & Policies

Seen By Amy is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn advertising fees by advertising & linking to Amazon.com.

Subscribe for the latest straight to your inbox!

• Skip to primary navigation
• Skip to main content
• Skip to primary sidebar
• Skip to footer

TravelAwaits

Our mission is to serve the 50+ traveler who's ready to cross a few items off their bucket list.

7 Gorgeous State Parks That Come Alive In The Winter

• Activities and Interests
• Destinations
• State Parks
• United States

The leaves were glowing with the copper, gold, and yellow of late fall when I caught my first sight of Natural Bridge at Natural Bridge State Park in Lexington, Virginia. Winter was already inching in, and the crisp clean air of the forest held a bit of a chill. Perfectly shaped red and orange maple and oak leaves littered the path from the Natural Bridge State Park visitor center that followed the sing-song flow of a little creek, and I could see how so many people would flock here when the weather cools.

Turning a corner on the hiking path, I stopped dead in my tracks and gaped in wonder. Ahead, towering 215 feet in the air was a limestone stone arch over the picturesque Cedar Creek. I had expected a little stone arch, but this cathedral-looking natural formation was so much more majestic than I could have imagined.

I was in love. During a hosted visit to Lexington, I was stunned by the sheer beauty of the natural areas around the town.

While gorgeous any time of the year, some state parks really come alive during the winter months. From winter sports like snowshoeing and skiing to hiking and stargazing, these parks seem to shine even brighter when the temperatures and the leaves drop. In many cases, the parks are less crowded, especially these seven gorgeous state parks that come alive in the winter.

Many of the locations on this list were discovered during hosted trips, but all opinions are the writer’s alone.

1. Natural Bridge State Park

Lexington, virginia.

Natural Bridge State Park near Lexington, Virginia , is the state’s newest state park, having been owned privately until Virginia dedicated it as an official park in 2016.

In addition to the stunning natural stone arch that attracts visitors to its glory, the 1,540-acre park showcases the rolling meadows and dense forests amongst the limestone karst terrain. The 7 miles of hiking trails are rated easy or moderate, though the path from the visitor center to the arch does include a pretty steep set of stairs.

The hiking and arch aren’t the only attractions at this little state park. During the winter, visitors can see ice form along Lace Fall’s 30-foot cascade, and seasonal living history programs are held year-round.

Natural Bridge State Park is also a recognized Dark Sky Park by the International Dark Sky Association , and the park offers numerous Dark Sky events. For instance, in December, park rangers lead excursions to the top of Jefferson Point — one of the highest points in the park — to observe the Geminids meteor shower. But you don’t need a celestial event to learn about the night sky and the effects of light pollution as rangers offer numerous programs throughout the year at night.

Winter hikes are also a draw for visitors to the park, and on January 1, Natural Bridge State Park rangers lead the annual First Day Hike along the panoramic views from Skyline Trail, which is a 1.6-mile, easy-to-moderate hike. As for any hike, dress according to the weather, wear close-toed shoes, and carry water.

Pro Tip: During the winter months from Thanksgiving to the second weekend in March, the park is open from 9 a.m. to dusk but is closed on Christmas Day. The paths are natural, so be sure to wear appropriate footwear and be aware of steep inclines on some of the trails. 

2. Natural Falls State Park

West siloam springs, oklahoma.

The Natural Falls State Park , located on the border of Oklahoma and Arkansas on Interstate 40, is one of the most peaceful and beautiful state parks in my home state. The towering falls are majestic to witness, and the surrounding landscape is so stunningly beautiful that it has been the setting in several movies.

Tucked within the highlands Ozark region of northeast Oklahoma, the park’s 77-foot waterfall flows down rock formations into the bottom of a narrow V-shaped valley. It’s a serene place, peaceful in a way that only hidden waterfalls can be.

In the winter, you don’t have to hike down the steep path to the base of the waterfall; instead, the park offers an observation platform with seats to view one of the most scenic wonders in the state. The wild and lush scenery was also the setting for the 1974 movie, Where the Red Fern Grows , which was filmed in the park.

Pro Tip: For a full experience, book an overnight stay in one of the park’s five yurts, which can be reserved online . Staying at the yurts is truly a glamping experience, complete with heating and air and other amenities. Each yurt sleeps between four and six people, and restrooms and showers are a short walk away.

3. Newport State Park

Ellison bay, wisconsin.

Another stunning Dark Sky Park, Newport State Park in Ellison Bay, Wisconsin, is tucked along the wild and lovely shores of Lake Michigan. Located at the far tip of the Door Peninsula , Newport State Park is one of the darkest spots in the state, and everyone from casual stargazers to astronomers flocks to the park at night to take in the universe’s splendor.

During the day, the park continues its outdoor activities in the winter with almost 30 miles of hiking and biking trails that weave through meadows, 11 miles of Lake Michigan shoreline, boreal forests, wooded uplands, and peaceful meadows. Boating, canoeing, and kayaking are also popular activities at the park, as is fishing along Lake Michigan and Europe Lake in the northern part of the park.

Open from 9 a.m. to 11 p.m. daily year-round, visitors flock to the park for cross-country skiing, winter fishing, and hiking. Luckily, you don’t even have to pack your own gear as Door County has several places to rent snowshoes and related equipment.

4. Montana De Oro State Park

Los osos, california.

Highway 1 through California’s Central Coast, nicknamed The Discovery Route , is a gorgeous drive any time of year, but in winter, the outdoor activities don’t stop… and neither do the views. On the central coast in the charming little boutique town of Los Osos, the Montana de Oro State Park features some of the prettiest views of the Central Coastline.

For those who yearn for the cool coastal breeze while exploring the rugged cliffs that hug the Pacific Ocean, the hiking at Montana de Oro includes the 3.4-mile out-and-back Bluff Trail that rewards hikers with views of the impressive coastline and high bluffs. The trail starts at the visitor center, and it’s one of the best spots for ocean views.

In addition to hiking, biking, and exploring the coastal tidepools, this state park butts up against Morro Bay State Park , which is a perfect spot to go out on whale-watching excursions or kayak with Central Coast Kayaks (ask for Sandy!) for a great flatwater paddling experience with sea otters and sea lions.

While the winter temperatures are moderate — usually in the 50s and 60s during the day — you’ll still want to dress in layers. The breezes can be much cooler than you expect and the water in the bay is colder than the rest of the coast. 

Also, Los Osos itself is a great central location to call home for a few days and is an easy drive to other nearby attractions like Hearst Castle , the Elephant Seal Rookery and Viewing Vista , pretty little Moonstone Beach , and the more than 27 tasting rooms in nearby San Luis Obispo . The Baywood Inn was our home base for the days we were there, and it was a perfect little place to call home.

5. Enchanted Rock State Natural Area

Near fredericksburg, texas.

Long held as an almost mystical place in the heart of the Texas Hill Country, Enchanted Rock State Natural Area draws thousands of visitors during the summer months. But winter will give you a less crowded experience and a stellar view of the massive pink granite dome rising above the Central Texas landscape, the surrounding scenery, and the unique rock formations.

In the winter months, nearly 11 miles of hiking trails remain open, though the Summit Trail may close in wet weather due to its slick inclines. Rock climbing at the park is also weather dependent, but all year round, visitors can participate in biking, geocaching, and enjoying the abundant nature throughout the park.

Stargazing is a treat at Enchanted Rock too, thanks to the natural geology and its rural location, making it one of the best places for stargazing in Central Texas. Pretty much any place in the park can be fantastic for viewing the stars.

Pro Tip: During wet weather, some of the trails and higher spots in the park may close due to the slickness of the rock. It’s always best to check with the park office for closures.

6. Chugach State Park

Anchorage, alaska.

One of the largest state parks in the nation, Chugach State Park spans roughly 495,000 acres of land and is among the most rugged and wild of the parks listed here. Surrounded by the Alaska Range to the north and west and the Chugach and Wrangell Mountains to the east, the views in Chugach State Park are unrivaled.

This massive state park with its abundant lakes, massive glaciers, and icefields really knows how to enjoy winter. The Alyeska Resort at the gateway of the park is famous for its skiing and snowboarding, but other activities include dog sled rides with an Iditarod veteran by day or even by moonlight, a scenic 7-minute winter tram from the Hotel Alyeska to the top of Mt. Alyesk up to seven “hanging” glaciers and endless views deep into the Chugach Mountain range.

In addition to ice skating on the numerous lakes, snow machining through the backwoods trails, and snowshoe hiking, the park hosts a special New Year’s Eve Lumi­nary Ski that is free to the public and starts at the Divide Ski Trails at Mile 12 of the Seward High­way. With candlelit trails, visitors can view the expansive winter skies and bid farewell to the old year by walking, snowshoeing, or skiing the trails to its end where cider, hot cocoa, and a warm campfire await.

7. Pickett CCC State Park

Eastern tennessee.

When I visited Pickett CCC State Park in Eastern Tennessee one January, the weather was mild enough to wear a light jacket, but even when it’s coated in snow, it’s one of the most picturesque parks in Tennessee. The cozy cabins at Pickett State Park are nestled within miles of jaw-dropping rock formations and jungles of wild rhododendron.

It also has plenty of winter hiking trails to explore and is within a few minutes of nearby Pogue Creek Canyon , a 3,000-acre natural area full of majestic bluffs, arches, waterfalls, and caves.

Though you won’t find traditional winter sports here like skiing, the winter hikes at the park are second to none. With more than 58 miles of hiking trails that vary in length and difficulty, it’s one of the best parks to breathe in that cold winter air and explore the forests, sandstone bluffs, and views of the massive 125,000-acre Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area .

Pickett State Park is also another International Dark-Sky Zone, and its dedicated stargazing field is one of the best places in the southeast to view the stars.

Pro Tip: Get a trail map if you are hiking at this park. My friend and I got turned around and a little lost during our hikes at this park, mainly because many of the trails intersect.

For more on state parks , explore these articles:

• 15 Best State Parks To Visit In The U.S.
• 7 Beautiful Texas Parks Where Fall Colors Paint The Landscape
• How To Spend A Long Weekend In Palo Duro Canyon

Heide Brandes is an award-winning journalist and travel writer based in Oklahoma. She loves outdoor adventures, exploring different cultures, and finding off-the-wall, bizarre, and wondrous experiences to enjoy. Heide writes for numerous national and international publications and is an award-winning member of the Society for Professional Journalists, North American Travel Journalists Association, and Society of American Travel Writers. Besides traveling and writing, Heide is also a professional Bellydancer, a medieval re-enactor, and a quirky chick who lives in Oklahoma City.

11 of the best national parks to visit during winter

Ken Burns was one of the many who've said it: The national parks were America's best idea.

America's national parks continue to draw big crowds, and visiting one (or more) of our U.S. park sites remains an incredibly popular choice for travelers across the age and budget spectrum.

High demand means some parks get very crowded, especially during the peak summer travel season and when specific entry requirements are in place.

Fortunately, you can usually get a reprieve from the crowds — and still enjoy spectacular scenery — by visiting a national park in winter when many parks reveal their own unique beauty.

These are the national parks best seen in the wintertime, from striking snowscapes to secluded retreats.

Bryce Canyon National Park

For travelers who'd prefer to commune with nature versus a bunch of other tourists, winter is an excellent time to visit Bryce Canyon.

While the weather in winter can be pretty chilly, the cold temperatures and high elevation offer winter visitors a fun opportunity: cross-country skiing. Outdoor enthusiasts can lay their own tracks or glide up groomed trails to check out the snow-capped hoodoos.

Entry to the park is $35 per vehicle for seven consecutive days. We recommend getting an $80 annual national park pass if you plan to visit more than one park a year. A pass is an excellent idea if you're traveling to Bryce since it can be easily combined with Zion National Park and Grand Canyon National Park .

Crater Lake National Park

With approximately 40 feet of snow falling on Crater Lake National Park every year, it's a wonder more people don't visit Oregon's only national park in winter.

During the winter season, which stretches from approximately November all the way into May (and it can stay quite cold even late in summer), travelers can explore the vast landscape on snowshoes, skis, snowmobiles, snowboards and sleds.

In fact, the park is anchored by the deepest lake in the U.S., which fills an ancient caldera in the Cascade Mountains and may provide even more recreational freedom than what you'd find in summer when scenic roads are packed with sightseeing drivers.

Just keep in mind that many roads, including the North Entrance Road, close to vehicles on Nov. 1 or earlier, depending on snowfall. Though the road to Rim Village is typically plowed, visitors may still need tire chains or all-wheel-drive vehicles with winter tires in order to safely enter the park. Make sure your vehicle is able to handle the snowy and icy roads, or plan on entering the park on a snowmobile or with other snow equipment.

Everglades National Park

Everglades National Park is actually busiest in the winter months, but it's hotter than Hades when the wet season hits — and the ubiquitous mosquitos are the size of golf balls, so winter still reigns supreme at this southern national park.

Head over to the Gulf Coast side of the park to canoe through extraordinary coastal mangroves, sawgrass marshes and pine flatwoods. There's a world-renowned variety of migrating birds and manatees, plus it's the only place on the planet where both gators and crocodiles coexist.

You can have a luxury stay on points and still be within driving distance of Everglades National Park by booking a room at the JW Marriott Marco Island Beach Resort or Baker's Cay Resort Key Largo , a Curio Collection property by Hilton.

Related: 10 of the best national parks to visit in the fall

Yosemite National Park

Yosemite was one of the first tracts of land to receive the national park denomination and is considered one of the most majestic places in the country. Millions of people make the pilgrimage every year to the home of the Half Dome and El Capitan — two iconic monoliths made even more famous by the popularization of rock climbing.

While most visitors stroll around the valley or hike the arduous Mist Trail in the warmer months, the park offers just as many outdoor activities during winter, with snow sports ranging from downhill and cross-country skiing to tubing and sledding, snowshoeing and ice skating. Outfitters will even take you snowmobiling. You'll face far fewer crowds than in the warm-weather months, no matter which diversion you choose.

Keep in mind that Tioga Road closes from about November to late May or early June every year. Otherwise, much of the rest of the park remains accessible. The park is also home to a ski resort, Badger Pass, which is far more affordable (and less overwhelming) than popular megaresorts elsewhere in California, such as those in Lake Tahoe or Mammoth .

Grand Canyon National Park

There's a reason why the Grand Canyon is one of the most visited national parks in the nation: It's one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World due to its awe-inspiring scale and size. However, the summer crowds and corresponding traffic can put a damper on the wonderment.

So, many visitors consider winter an underrated and particularly special time to visit the Grand Canyon. Take in the view from the popular Bright Angel Trail. That's when the dramatic red rocks pop beneath a dusting of snow, and you'll share the scenery with just a fraction of the number of tourists here in summer. You'll also see more animal activity during the cooler months because of the weather and because the wildlife is emboldened in the absence of humans.

While the North Rim of the canyon does close every winter, the South Rim area remains open, with temperatures at the rim generally peaking in the 40s and dropping into the 20s. Temperatures on the canyon floor are a bit higher, between the 30s and high 50s.

Consider bedding down at the elegant (by national park lodge standards) El Tovar Hotel located directly on the canyon rim. It offers the best views and is home to the only fine-dining restaurant inside the park. It's also the most expensive, with standard rooms starting around $300.

Related: What to pack and where to stay: TPG's ultimate Grand Canyon family vacation guide

Death Valley National Park

Death Valley is infamous for its drought and scalding summer temperatures that consistently exceed 100 degrees. So, it's no surprise that travelers drawn to this sprawling desert landscape often come here in winter when the daytime temperatures are decidedly less deadly and snow has dusted the surrounding peaks.

Located in eastern California, Death Valley National Park is a great road trip destination from Las Vegas . Just a 2.5-hour drive from Sin City, travelers can visit Badwater Basin (a salt flat with the lowest elevation on the continent). In winter, it's cool enough for visitors to walk out onto the salt flat and see the iconic "salt polygons" — geometric formations on the earth — up close.

Another can't-miss sight is Artist's Palette on Artist's Drive, a 9-mile scenic route that snakes through the multicolored badlands. The kaleidoscopic hues, formed by various metals oxidizing in the mountains, are best seen in the late afternoon light.

If you want to spend the night in the park, book a stay at Stovepipe Wells Village Hotel . Rooms have a classic Western feel, and there are on-site amenities such as a pool, a saloon and a general store. There are also campsites and recreational vehicle hookups available.

Yellowstone National Park

If you've visited Yellowstone in summer, you were likely met with hordes of tourists (irresponsibly) stopping to take selfies with bison and had your view of Old Faithful impeded by hundreds of selfie sticks. But in winter, visitors are rewarded with a different kind of experience.

Steam from erupting geysers and hot springs creates an impressive contrast to the snow-covered backdrop. Wolves and bighorn sheep make their appearance — definitely participate in a wolf-viewing tour. Meanwhile, skiers can enjoy a serene experience that can't be found at any ski resort on Earth.

Search Cook City, Gardiner, Red Lodge or West Yellowstone in Montana for hotels or rental properties near the trio of Montana entrances. The Kimpton in Bozeman is another option if you want a more luxurious lodging experience using your points. It's about 90 miles away from Yellowstone.

There are also many places to bed down at the two Wyoming entrances (especially by the one near Cody, Wyoming). If you're looking for a place to stay with points, consider the Holiday Inn West Yellowstone , the Ridgeline Hotel at Yellowstone (an Ascend property by Choice Hotels), the Days Inn by Wyndham West Yellowstone , the Best Western Desert Inn or the Best Western Weston Inn .

Related: Where to stay when visiting Yellowstone National Park: Best hotels and lodges

Glacier National Park

Thanks to social media and the popularity of adventure travel, many of us are convinced we have to catch a flight to Iceland or Alaska for a chance to see the northern lights .

But you can simply head to Glacier National Park — a designated Dark Sky Park — in winter for a solid shot at witnessing the celestial phenomenon. Lake MacDonald, which stretches 10 miles to the north, is surrounded by high peaks and offers an unobstructed sky view.

Glacier National Park normally charges a $35 entrance fee per vehicle in summer, but travelers who brave the cold will get a discounted rate of $25 in winter.

However, if you visit Glacier in winter, you'll want to stay just outside the park. There are a few luxury hotels, including the Firebrand Hotel in Whitefish, and travelers can use points to stay at the TownePlace Suites Whitefish Kalispell ; the SpringHill Suites Kalispell ; or one of Hilton's four properties in the area, including a Hilton Garden Inn, a Hampton Inn, a Homewood Suites and a Hampton Inn and Suites.

Related: Here's how you can visit national parks for free in 2024

Big Bend National Park

Discover impossibly dark skies and crowd-free, wide-open spaces at Big Bend National Park in West Texas. Visit during winter to escape the South's blistering heat and stargaze in solitude.

Spend your days hiking in the Chisos Mountains (just be mindful of trail closures for peregrine falcon nesting season) or soaking in the area's natural hot springs near Rio Grande Village.

Plan far in advance, and you can stay at the Chisos Mountains Lodge — but travelers can also take advantage of the park's vast campgrounds. After all, the lows rarely drop below the low 40s even in the height of winter, making it the perfect time to cozy up in an RV or tent.

Saguaro National Park

Winter storms may be sporadic in Saguaro National Park, but even if you don't see towering cactuses dusted with snow, winter may still be one of the best times to visit this underrated parkland.

Less than a half-hour from Tucson, Arizona, this national park is in the center of the Sonoran Desert, meaning daytime temperatures during summer can exceed 110 degrees. That's what makes winter a delightful time to visit, as the mild temperatures hover around the mid-60s and 70s.

In addition to having the nation's largest cactuses, saguaros, which can grow up to 60 feet in height and can live to be over 200 years old, the park features ancient petroglyphs, is close to a family-friendly museum and has several scenic drives and mountain trails that vary in duration and difficulty.

Grand Teton National Park

Discover a crowd-free version of Wyoming's striking Grand Teton National Park by visiting in winter . After the final leaf peepers leave, the park becomes a winter wonderland where you can cross-country ski, snowshoe or even snowmobile through the snowdrifts.

For a more leisurely experience, dog sled tours take visitors through the silver-white wilderness. Whether you're on a sled or skis, watch out for wildlife: Winter is a great time to spot elk, moose, bison, deer, bald eagles and wolves.

Just note that there are no lodges or services open in the park during the offseason, so you'll want to stay in the nearby towns of Jackson and Teton Village. Consider The Cloudveil , an Autograph Collection property in Jackson. You might even find some off-peak award availability.

Related reading:

• Key travel tips you need to know — whether you're a first-time or frequent traveler
• Best travel credit cards
• Where to go in 2024: The 16 best places to travel
• 6 real-life strategies you can use when your flight is canceled or delayed
• 8 of the best credit cards for general travel purchases
• 13 must-have items the TPG team can't travel without

• Share full article

Advertisement

Supported by

What to Know Before Booking a National Park Trip This Summer

Additional routes in popular parks now require reservations, the annual pass gets a big change, Juneteenth is now a new free entrance day and more changes for 2024.

By Lauren Matison

In 2023, the seashores, lakeshores, battlefields, historic sites, monuments and more that make up the National Park Service had 325.5 million visits , an increase of 4 percent from the year before.

The National Park Service director, Charles F. Sams III, praised the surge of interest in “learning our shared American story throughout the hidden gems of the National Parks System.”

Expecting an even greater turnout in 2024, the Park Service and Recreation.gov , the booking platform for federal land reservations, have implemented new measures to streamline the park experience, manage overcrowding and safeguard the environment.

More parks are requiring reservations

To better avoid congested trails, packed parking lots and overflowing trash cans, additional parks are joining Rocky Mountain , Arches and Glacier National Parks this year in requiring day-use permits, timed entries and other reservations for travelers who wish to visit, particularly during peak hours, holidays and the parks’ high seasons. Yosemite National Park is reinstating a timed-entry system it instituted in 2020, but paused in 2022.

Many park enthusiasts expressed mixed feelings about the reservation policies, with some lamenting a lack of first-come, first-served campsites while others find comfort in knowing they have a confirmed booking. As nearly 75 percent of visitors each year descend on national parks from May to October (and often on weekends), park officials stand by the system.

“In some parks, the level of demand is exceeding the capacity for which infrastructure was designed or is outpacing the National Park Service’s ability to sustainably support visitation,” said Kathy Kupper, a public affairs specialist for the service. “This trend is resulting in the need to explore new strategies to protect natural and cultural resources and provide opportunities for safe and meaningful visitor experiences.”

It can be confusing.

New to implementing timed-entry reservations for vehicles is Mount Rainier National Park , in Washington, for its popular Paradise and Sunrise Corridors during certain times in the summer season. Reservations cost $2, are valid for one day and must be purchased along with the park ticket, but do not apply for visitors with wilderness permits or camping or lodge reservations. Similar vehicle reservations are now required for certain periods for viewing the sunrise at Haleakalā National Park in Maui, Hawaii , and driving the Cadillac Summit Road in Maine’s Acadia National Park .

Visitors wishing to hike Old Rag Mountain in Virginia’s Shenandoah National Park must obtain a day-use ticket between March 1 and Nov. 30, and in Zion National Park, in Utah, hikers wishing to visit Angels Landing , the dramatic 1,488-foot-tall rock formation, also need to purchase a permit. Fees range from $1 to $6, in addition to the parks’ entrance fees.

As each destination is managed differently, check the park’s webpage for the type of reservation required. Although most bookings can be made through Recreation.gov, some sites, such as Muir Woods National Monument, use a different system.

New features on Recreation.gov

In 2023, Recreation.gov reported that more than 4 million camping reservations and 2 million timed-entry reservations were booked online, and 1.5 million permits were issued. Some 2.9 million new users signed up for the site. With its expanding user base, the booking platform has added 58 reservable national park locations — including 17 campgrounds — such as Central Avenue Walk-in Sites at Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore and Bluff Hike In Camping in South Carolina’s Congaree National Park.

Recreation.gov has also improved an alerts feature, piloted in July 2023, that can notify users through email or mobile push notifications when a sold-out campsite becomes available. After Recreation.gov notifies you of availability, you must book the campsite yourself online — and quickly, as you’ll be shown how many other people (possibly hundreds) have received the same alert.

While its customer support center and mobile app are still only available in English, Recreation.gov recently introduced a Spanish language translation option. The Park Service partners with Latino Conservation Week , which hosts nationwide hikes and events on environmental education and in-park stewardship, and will celebrate its 10th year in September.

A limit to the annual America the Beautiful pass

The 2024 America the Beautiful pass no longer allows two owners. The annual interagency pass, which costs $80 and covers the entrance fees for more than 2,000 federal recreation sites (of which roughly 100 do not charge for admission year-round), is now marked by a single signature line on the back of the card. The pass owner must show I.D. and be present with any accompanying travelers wishing to access the park with the pass. (Annual passes issued in 2023 will still be valid until their expiration date.) The pass covers all passengers in a vehicle — up to four adults, and children under 16 are admitted free — or up to four cyclists riding together. Active military or veterans and people with permanent disabilities are eligible for a free lifetime pass; 4th grade students may receive a free annual pass; and senior citizens may purchase a $20 annual pass or pay $80 for a lifetime pass.

At the parks, more accessible features, E.V. chargers and new lodging

To better protect against global warming, the Park Service is putting more than $65 million from the Inflation Reduction Act and Great American Outdoors Act into climate mitigation and ecosystem restoration.

Using $15.9 million budgeted for zero-emission vehicle deployment, charging capacity and infrastructure, the Park Service is prioritizing a reduction in carbon emissions, said Mr. Sams, by installing new electric-vehicle charging stations and running electric buses.

An interactive online locator tool created in 2023 shows E.V. charging stations throughout 27 national parks and the type of chargers available. In addition to the tool, every national park page displays alerts on road closures, parking lot capacities, construction work and other incidents.

Mr. Sams also said the Park Service is investing $1.3 billion from the Great American Outdoors Act to improve accessibility features, ranging from a new A.D.A.-compliant visitor center at Morristown National Historic Park in New Jersey to new beach wheelchairs at Sleeping Bear Dunes , Channel Islands and Virgin Islands National Parks . Each destination’s website has an accessibility tab to help visitors plan their trip, and Recreation.gov now has a search filter on its homepage to make it easier to locate accessible accommodations.

New lodging options now available across the country include the Flamingo Lodge , which opened inside Everglades National Park last fall with 24 guest rooms built from repurposed shipping containers. In March, along the southeastern border of Great Smoky Mountains National Park, the Cataloochee Ranch reopened with 11 renovated cabins and a new restaurant. This spring, the Clubhouse Hotel & Suites will welcome its first guests in Rapid City, S.D., the closest major town to Badlands National Park , and opening in May in Idaho is the Yellowstone Peaks Hotel , a 30-minute-drive from Yellowstone National Park. This fall, California-bound travelers planning a visit to General Sherman, the largest known tree on Earth, might book at AutoCamp Sequoia , just outside Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Park .

Also in California: Those who don’t score a highly coveted (and contentious) spot at the newly reopened High Sierra Camps in Yosemite could book Wildhaven Yosemite in Mariposa, which offers more affordable rates, hiking trails and views of the Sierra Nevadas. Reservations for its first season are available beginning May 1.

Celebrating milestones and a new free entrance day

On the 60th anniversary of the Civil Rights Act, visitors can pay tribute to African American heritage at over 100 parks , including the Frederick Douglass National Historic Site in Washington, D.C., Birmingham Civil Rights National Monument , and the Selma to Montgomery National Historic Trail . This year also marks 100 years since Indigenous people were recognized as United States citizens. Although many parks have Indigenous programming , Mr. Sams, who is the first Native American to serve as N.P.S. director , suggested visiting Hopewell Cultural Historical Park in Ohio and Whitman Mission Historic National Historic Site in Washington, where he recently brought his daughter.

“In order to celebrate the diversity that makes our country great, we must share the complete story of America, which includes both the successes and challenges encountered on the way to form a more perfect union,” Mr. Sams said.

Juneteenth National Independence Day is the National Park Service’s newest free entrance day . Visitors can also take advantage of free admission on April 20, the first day of National Park Week; Aug. 4, the four-year anniversary of the Great American Outdoors Act ; Sept. 28 on National Public Lands Day ; and Nov. 11 for Veterans Day .

Follow New York Times Travel on Instagram and sign up for our weekly Travel Dispatch newsletter to get expert tips on traveling smarter and inspiration for your next vacation. Dreaming up a future getaway or just armchair traveling? Check out our 52 Places to Go in 2024 .

An earlier version of this article misstated the location of the Flamingo Lodge. It is inside Everglades National Park, not outside the park.

How we handle corrections