3 U.S. National Parks to See in the Winter

Many people think of the summer months, with their warm weather and ample vacation time, as the best time to take a trip to one of America’s national parks, but along with all that sunshine comes large crowds and congestion, which is probably not what you’re looking for in some of the nation’s most beautiful expanses of wilderness. Planning your trip in the cooler months, though it may require some additional planning and preparation, allows for a more personal glimpse into the National Parks. These three parks are famous for their winter beauty.

1. Apostle Islands National Lakeshore

Located on the northern tip of Wisconsin, Apostle Islands National Lakeshore encompasses almost 70,000 acres, including 12 miles of mainland shoreline and 21 of the Apostle Islands. Known as the “Jewels of Lake Superior”, the Apostle Islands are home to old growth forest, wild blueberries, black bear, deer, and beautiful views.

Why Visit in winter?

When Lake Superior freezes sufficiently thick, the caves dotting the limestone cliffs can be accessed from the mainland by walking across the ice. Visiting the ice caves will require a good amount of walking -- at least two miles round trip -- so be sure to dress warm. Also, check the park website before visiting, as the conditions of the ice change day to day and the park will be closed if it is not safe. Some years the ice doesn’t get thick enough all winter, though the last two years have providoed opportunities to see the caves during at least part of the winter.

2. Everglades National Park

South Florida’s Everglades National Park is one of the world’s great hotspots of biodiversity and a must see for anyone interested in wildlife. The 1.5 million acre National Park is home to hundreds of species of animals, including alligators, manatees, and 350 species of birds, as well as several miles of hiking trails.

Why Visit in Winter?

The beautiful scenery and wildlife can be appreciated year-round, but South Florida’s subtropical climate is much more agreeable in the milder and less humid winter months. The months between December and March are the height of the tourist season, they also offer the best chance to see the park without getting rained on or engulfed by mosquitoes.

3. Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone is one of America’s most popular national parks with over three million people visiting every year to get a glimpse of some of the country’s last unspoiled wilderness. A thousand miles of hiking trails offer visitors a chance to see wolves, grizzly bears, bison and other rare wildlife in their natural habitat, and over half of the world’s geysers, including the famous Old Faithful, can be seen in Yellowstone

Why Visit in Winter?

Summertime is peak season in Yellowstone, so by visiting in the winter you can avoid the crowds. The views will still be stunning, and the geysers and other geothermal features cast an amazing contrast with the snow covered landscape. It is very important that you plan ahead before visiting Yellowstone, especially in the winter, as much of the park is closed off. The North and Northeast entrances of the park, which provide access to Mammoth Hot Springs, are open and maintained year round.