Death Valley
The best time to visit.
December through February
Best National Parks to Visit in Winter
Winter is the best time for desert and tropical parks, and the most magical time for a few snowy ones. Here are the national parks rated best from December through February.
18 parks rated good or better in winter
Big Bend
Peak season, with mild desert days and cold nights in the Chisos Mountains.
Biscayne
Dry season and the best weather.
Saguaro
Peak season, with sunny days in the 60s and 70s.
Everglades
Dry season and the best time.
Virgin Islands
Peak season, with dry, breezy weather and the highest prices.
Haleakalā
Humpback whale season on Maui.
Hawaiʻi Volcanoes
Peak travel season.
Pinnacles
Cool and green after the rains.
Joshua Tree
Cool and clear, with chilly nights that can dip below freezing.
Congaree
Mild and bug-free.
Mammoth Cave
The cave stays around 54°F year-round.
Carlsbad Caverns
Underground, it's 56°F year-round, so the cave is always comfortable.
Gateway Arch
Fewer crowds for the tram ride.
Zion
Mild and quiet, with highs often in the 50s.
White Sands
Cool, clear and calm, the best time for hikes across the dunes.
Hot Springs
Soaking weather.
Dry Tortugas
Comfortable temperatures, but cold fronts can bring rough seas and choppy crossings.
Questions
What are the best national parks to visit in winter?
The highest-rated parks for winter are Death Valley, Big Bend, Biscayne, Saguaro, Everglades, Virgin Islands.
Which months count as winter here?
December through February. See each month's page for exact ratings, since some parks change a lot within a season.
Last reviewed October 4, 2026. Ratings are editorial. Rules and road openings change each year, so confirm on the official NPS site before you go.