I've Visited 30+ National Parks--and This Is My Favorite to Visit During the Winter for Few Crowds and Scenic Drives

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  Published in Travel and Leisure on Sunday, November 9th 2025 at 7:41 GMT by Travel + Leisure

1. Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming

Grand Teton tops the list, a clear choice for its dramatic peaks, serene frozen lakes, and ample winter recreation. The article emphasizes the park’s year‑round appeal: ski enthusiasts can hit the ski resorts that line the valley, while quieter travelers can wander across the snow‑covered hiking trails for a sense of isolation. The piece also highlights the park’s best wildlife sightings—moose, elk, and the occasional grizzly bear that roams the quieter backcountry. A link to the National Park Service’s Grand Teton page provides visitors with up‑to‑date trail conditions, ranger‑staffed activities, and parking regulations. Additionally, the article directs readers to the park’s official website, which includes a “Winter in Grand Teton” section detailing specific winter events, such as the “Yodelers’ Snow Fest” that celebrates the region’s cultural heritage.

2. Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming

Yellowstone follows closely. The piece notes that while most people think of the park in summer, its winter months offer a quieter version of the geothermal wonderland. The geysers, including Old Faithful, still erupt over a layer of snow, providing a magical view. The article recommends early‑morning drives for clearer road conditions and highlights the best spots for spotting bison and elk that come closer to the roads during winter. It links to the official Yellowstone page’s winter travel guide, which lists the park’s four main scenic drives and offers details on snow‑shoes rentals and snowmobile tours. The travel blog embedded in the article also offers tips on packing layered clothing and how to manage the park’s limited ranger station hours during the season.

3. Glacier National Park, Montana

Glacier National Park is celebrated for its dramatic alpine scenery that’s especially striking when blanketed in snow. Travel and Leisure points out that the park’s iconic Going‑to‑The‑Sun Road is usually open from late spring to early fall, but winter travelers can still explore the park’s backcountry via guided snowshoe or cross‑country ski tours. The article links to a National Park Service page that outlines the park’s winter permits, including a limited number of backcountry overnight permits. A separate link to a reputable outdoor gear company offers insights into recommended gear for snowshoeing in the park’s rugged terrain, and a local travel guide provides a map of the most accessible winter trails.

4. Acadia National Park, Maine

Acadia’s inclusion surprises some readers, but the article argues that its rugged coastline and dense forests are just as spectacular in winter. The park’s carriage roads—originally built for horse carriage—become ideal for cross‑country skiing and snowshoeing, offering visitors a chance to see the Atlantic Ocean glistening with ice. The Travel and Leisure article links to Acadia’s official page, where visitors can find details about seasonal closures and recommended routes. A side link to the park’s winter events calendar lists “Frosty Fest,” a winter festival that showcases local crafts and live music in the park’s historic carriage house.

5. Shenandoah National Park, Virginia

The article rounds off the list with Shenandoah, a lesser‑known but highly scenic park that receives an impressive amount of snowfall each year. The Skyline Drive, a 105‑mile scenic route, remains open through late winter in many sections, making it a favorite for winter photography. The piece highlights that the park’s waterfalls, like Old Rag, become ethereal when draped in ice, and that the park’s ranger‑staffed cabins provide a cozy lodging option for those who want to spend a night in the mountains. A link to the park’s official winter guide offers practical information about hiking permits and how to stay safe on the often icy trails.

Practical Tips for Winter National Park Travel

Throughout the article, Travel and Leisure offers a set of actionable tips that are useful for all readers. These include:

• Dress in layers: Thermal base layers, insulating mid‑layers, and wind‑proof outer layers are essential. Waterproof boots with good traction are a must.
• Plan for limited services: Many ranger stations close early in winter, so visitors should check operating hours on the National Park Service pages.
• Reserve accommodations early: Popular winter lodges and cabins book up quickly; the article links to reservation portals for each park.
• Watch weather forecasts: Sudden snowstorms can close roads; the National Park Service’s “Weather & Road Conditions” pages provide real‑time updates.
• Take guided tours: Many parks offer ranger‑led snowshoe or cross‑country ski tours, which are excellent for safety and learning about wildlife and geology.

Resources for Further Exploration

In addition to the official National Park Service links embedded throughout the article, there are several external resources that offer deeper dives:

• “Winter Travel in National Parks” – a comprehensive guide by the National Park Service that details each park’s specific winter policies.
• “The Ultimate Snowshoeing Guide” – a travel blog that includes gear reviews and trail suggestions for each park mentioned.
• “Wildlife Watching in Winter” – a documentary series that showcases how animals adapt to the cold in various national parks.

Final Thoughts

Travel and Leisure’s roundup serves as an excellent primer for anyone considering a winter trip to a national park. By pairing descriptive narrative with actionable resources—official park links, travel guides, and practical advice—the article makes it easier for readers to pick a destination that suits their interests, whether they seek adventure on the backcountry trails or simply wish to witness the quiet majesty of a snow‑covered landscape. For those yearning for a crisp, white escape, the five parks highlighted in the piece promise unforgettable experiences that go far beyond the usual summer itinerary.