The Glacier Edit: Can't Miss National Parks this Winter.
Welcome back to The Travel Edit. Lets jump right in where we left off last week, with some great recommendations for National Parks to visit this winter. Winter casts a completely different spell on America’s national parks—transforming familiar trails, valleys, and mountains into quiet, snow-dusted wonderlands. Whether you’re chasing snowy peaks or escaping to milder desert parks, visiting in the colder months reveals a side of these natural treasures that most never see.
Death Valley National Park, CA
Death Valley is one of the most diverse parks I have ever visited- and also one of the largest. Over 100 miles long, there are nearly a dozen must see spots throughout the park. Some of our favorites were Badwater Basin, Zabriskie Point, and Devil’s Golf Course. As a Star Wars fan, I also must recommend the Canyon hike and the Mesquite Flat sand dunes, where several Tatooine scenes were filmed. We visited in early February, and found the weather was perfect, low 70s and beautiful weather for a few hikes. We took a day trip from Vegas and found this was manageable, but be warned cell service is very scarce and getting home we had to follow paper maps to exit the park.
Grand Teton National Park, WY
Visiting Grand Teton National Park in winter is a true alpine adventure. The jagged peaks stand sharp against the snow, and the entire landscape transforms into a serene, frosted wilderness. While many roads typically close for the season, there are other fun ways to explore via cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, or joining guided wildlife tours to spot elk, moose, and bison in their snowy habitat. Must-see spots in Grand Teton National Park include Jenny Lake, Mormon Row, Snake River Overlook, Schwabacher Landing, and Oxbow Bend for some of the park’s most iconic mountain views and wildlife sightings.
Yosemite National Park, CA
Yosemite in winter is a peaceful retreat where granite cliffs, frozen waterfalls, and snow-dusted meadows create a magical scene. With fewer visitors, iconic spots like El Capitan and Half Dome feel especially serene, and you might even catch them glowing pink at sunset against the snowy valley. Winter activities range from snowshoeing to Badger Pass Ski Area to simply enjoying the quiet beauty of Yosemite Valley. Bundle up, take it slow, and you’ll experience a side of Yosemite that feels both intimate and breathtakingly wild!
Bryce Canyon National Park, UT
I actually paired Bryce Canyon with my Vegas/Death Valley trip last February, and loved it! Bryce really surprised me with the incredible views through the Amphitheatre and canyon hikes. Our favorite trail was Queen’s Garden, which is a pretty easy hike with awesome views and a nice descent into the canyon. Trails like the Rim Trail or short walks to viewpoints such as Sunrise and Sunset Point are especially magical under a winter sky, and for the more adventurous, snowshoeing and cross-country skiing offer a new way to explore. Just be sure to bundle up—the high elevation means crisp, chilly air—but the views are more than worth it. I would strongly recommend seeing a sunrise in Bryce, this was my favorite memory of our trip.
Virgin Islands National Park, USVI
Don’t worry, I didn’t forget to include one tropical getaway too! Visiting Virgin Islands National Park in winter is like stepping into a tropical escape right when you need it most. While much of the U.S. is covered in snow, St. John offers warm turquoise waters, lush green hillsides, and soft white-sand beaches perfect for swimming, snorkeling, or simply soaking up the sun. Winter is also the island’s peak season, so you’ll find lively energy, easy access to boat tours, and plenty of opportunities to explore the park’s hiking trails and historic sugar mill ruins. It’s the ideal blend of relaxation and adventure, all with Caribbean breezes to keep you company!
Happy Travels!
Now you are fully equipped to see some of nature’s best gems this winter season! Whether you’ll be skiing, hiking, or even swimming, have the best time and enjoy your trips! We’ll be back next week to cover the best parks to visit in the spring.
