10 Breathtaking National Parks That Stay Warm During The Winter
Do you know that several national parks in the United States offer warm weather all year?
That’s right – no matter how cold it gets where you are, these national parks will provide you with a warm escape.
While some people crave the winter experience with snow and ice, others (me) look for warm escapes when the gray PNW winter starts to get to me. One of my favorite things to do mid-winter is to find a warm National Park and head out on a few epic hikes to reset my mind.
1. Haleakala National Park, Hawaii
Haleakala National Park is located on the island of Maui, Hawaii. It has two unique districts, both of which are great winter destinations.
The Summit District is where you’ll find the crater of Haleakala. You can hike into the crater or enjoy being above the clouds and viewing the other Hawaiian Islands from the summit. The summit is over 10,000 feet in elevation, so it will be chillier here year-round than other areas in Maui. Bring a light jacket.
The Kipahulu District is located at the end of the Road to Hana and is a great way to combine on of the most iconic experiences on Maui with a cool hike and a visit to this National Park.
What to do in Winter in Haleakala National Park
There are several things you can do in Haleakala National Park in winter. One of the most popular things to do is visit the summit. The summit offers fantastic views and is a great place to watch the sunrise or sunset.
Visiting the Kipahulu District is a great winter option for hiking the Pipiwai Trail, exploring Hawaiian Cultural Exhibits, or checking out the Seven Sacred Pools.
2. Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, Hawaii
Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is one of the most popular National Parks in the United States. It is home to two active volcanoes, Mauna Loa and Kilauea. The park is also great for learning about Hawaiian culture and history.
You may get lucky and see an active lava flow during your visit, but the park is still worth visiting, even if the volcanoes aren’t actively erupting.
What to do in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park in Winter
One of the most popular activities is hiking. There are several trails to choose from, depending on your experience level and fitness. Check out the lava tubes, and drive the Chain of Craters Drive while you are in the park.
3. American Samoa National Park, Tutuila
American Samoa National Park is located on the island of Tutuila in American Samoa. It is home to several ecosystems, including coral reefs, rainforests, and beaches.
While it is one of the least visited parks, it is well worth the effort of getting there. I recently visited for one day as a port of call on a repositioning cruise, and the park is stunning; the locals are welcoming and friendly and the views are jaw-dropping.
What to do in American Samoa National Park in Winter
The park offers various activities, including hiking, snorkeling, and kayaking. Visitors can also visit the village of Ta’u and learn about Samoan culture.
American Samoa National Park is located in residential areas, and I highly recommend booking a tour to respectfully and effectively experience this park.
4. Virgin Islands National Park, St John
Virgin Islands National Park is one of the most beautiful places in the world. Its white sand beaches, clear blue waters, and lush vegetation make it a perfect place to escape the winter cold.
Although it is tropical, the USVI is a US territory, and you won’t need a passport to visit! The park is located in St. John, USVI, and is easily accessible by water taxi from nearby St Thomas.
What to do in Virgin Islands National Park in Winter
You can spend your time basking in the glorious sunshine, snorkeling at some of the best snorkeling in the Caribbean or hiking through historic ruins scattered throughout the park.
One of my favorite places to go is Cinnamon Bay, a lovely beach with all the necessary amenities. Across the street is a hike that takes you through old ruins and teaches the history of the island and the inhabitants of days gone by.
You should also make time to visit Trunk Bay, which is consistently voted one of the best beaches in the world. Wait until you see it, you’ll agree with the votes, and never want to leave.
5. Saguaro National Park, Arizona
Located just outside of Tucson, Saguaro National Park is home to some of the largest cacti in the world, including the iconic Saguaro cactus, which can only be found in the Southwest United States.
This park is divided into two districts, separated by the city of Tucson. Both districts are unique and worth exploring.
What to do in Saguaro National Park in Winter
In the winter, you can take advantage of the cooler weather and explore the hiking trails throughout the districts of Saguaro National Park.
It would also be an excellent time to bike through the Cactus Forest Loop of the Rincon District as in the summer, its can get too hot.
While not part of the park, I suggest visiting the Arizona-Senora Desert Museum nearest the Rincon Mountain District.
6. Biscayne National Park, Florida
Biscayne National Park is located in Homestead, Florida, and is considered one of the best National Parks on the East Coast.
The park is 95% water and has several different habitats, including mangroves, estuaries, coral reefs, and seagrass beds.
What to do in Biscayne National Park in Winter
In the winter you can take advantage of the cooler weather and explore the underwater 95% of Biscayne National Park.
You can snorkel or scuba dive in some of the most transparent water in Florida and see various marine life, including manatees, dolphins, and sharks. There are also beautiful coral reefs to admire.
7. Everglades National Park, Florida
Everglades National Park is located in Homestead, Florida. It comprises over one million acres of wetlands and is home to wildlife, including alligators, crocodiles, snakes, and birds.
What to do in Everglades National Park in Winter
Activities in the park include hiking, biking, kayaking, and fishing. Visitors can also take a ranger-led walk or boat tour to explore the park’s wildlife and ecosystems.
Visiting in the winter can give a different perspective than the summer because there will be more water in the park. We visited in the summer, and it was quite dry and hot.
Visit Shark Valley and take a tram ride, rent a bike to explore the area and head up to the observation tour, or sign up for an airboat tour through the Everglades.
8. Death Valley National Park, California
Death Valley holds the record for the hottest temperature ever recorded on Earth at 134 degrees Fahrenheit in 1913. While it’s not quite that hot during the winter months (averaging a still-toasty 72 degrees), it’s warm enough to explore during the day, at night you’ll still need a jacket.
What to do in Death Valley in the Winter
There is plenty to do in Death Valley National Park in the winter, including hiking, biking, and bird watching. You can also visit some of the park’s famous attractions, such as Zabriskie Point and Badwater Basin.
9. Joshua Tree National Park, California
Joshua Tree National Park is located in Southern California. The park is named after Joshua trees that are found in the area. The Joshua tree is a type of yucca plant native to the Mojave Desert.
What to do in Joshua Tree in Winter
There are plenty of things to do in Joshua Tree in the winter. Hiking and camping are popular activities, and there are plenty of trails to choose from. If you’re looking for something a bit more adventurous, you can try rock climbing or bouldering.
No matter what you do at Joshua Tree, don’t leave until well after dark. The park is a dark sky park and comes to life under the night sky. It’s one of the most incredible stargazing places I’ve ever witnessed.
10. Big Bend National Park, Texas
Big Bend National Park is home to mountains, deserts, and canyons, making it one of the most diverse national parks in the country.
What to do in Big Bend National Park in the Winter
And with over 800 miles of hiking trails available, plenty can keep you busy during your visit. In addition to hiking, there are several other activities available in Big Bend National Park during the winter months. These include camping, fishing, bird watching, and horseback riding.
