Bryce Canyon
Snow on the orange hoodoos is unforgettable. Most of the park stays open, and the Winter Festival happens in February.
Guide · 10 parks
National Parks to Visit in the Snow
Snow on hoodoos, frozen waterfalls and wolves on a white valley floor. These parks are special in winter, if you're prepared.
Yellowstone
A snow-covered wonderland reached by snowcoach or guided snowmobile from mid-December to mid-March. The Lamar Valley is one of the best places on Earth to see wolves.
Voyageurs
Ice roads open across Rainy Lake and Kabetogama Lake (conditions permitting). Snowmobiling, snowshoeing and the northern lights.
Yosemite
Snow-dusted granite and few crowds. In mid-to-late February, Horsetail Fall can glow orange at sunset, a phenomenon known as 'firefall.'
Crater Lake
One of the snowiest inhabited places in the country, averaging around 40 feet a year. Only the south entrance and Rim Village stay open; ranger-led snowshoe walks run on weekends.
Mount Rainier
Paradise gets enormous snowfall and becomes a snowshoe and sledding destination. The road from Longmire to Paradise is the only route kept open, and it can close in storms.
Lassen Volcanic
Deep snow closes the main park highway. Snowshoeing and backcountry skiing from the southwest entrance.
Sequoia
The Giant Forest under snow is spectacular. Chains are often required, and some roads close.
Grand Teton
The Teton Park Road closes to cars and becomes a ski and snowshoe route. Moose and elk winter in the valley.
Rocky Mountain
Snowshoeing and backcountry skiing at Bear Lake. Trail Ridge Road is closed, but elk and moose are easy to spot.
When to go
More guides
Warm National Parks to Visit in WinterBest National Parks for Fall ColorLeast Crowded National ParksBest National Parks for WildlifeBest National Parks for StargazingBest National Parks for FamiliesNational Parks with BeachesNational Parks with CavesNational Parks with VolcanoesBest National Parks for HikingThe Most Remote National ParksNational Parks with the Best Scenic DrivesSummer National Parks Without the Crowds
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.