Freeze Your Buns Off (For Fun!): A Guide to Winter Sports & Activities in US National Parks

Listen up, fellow adventure junkies! National parks aren’t just for summer selfies, winter in these bad boys is like stumbling into Narnia (minus the talking animals).

Picture this: You’re standing in Yellowstone, steam rising from geysers and not a fanny pack in sight. That’s the magic of national parks in winter, my friends.

It’s time to trade those flip-flops for snow boots and dive into a world where “crowd” means you and a couple of furry bison lumbering around.

I know what you’re thinking. “But Sheri, won’t I freeze my but off?” Well, yeah, probably. But trust me, it’s worth it.

Ready to turn your winter blues into winter woo-hoo’s? Let’s check out some epic winter sports & activities in US National Parks!

Winter Activity	Top National Parks	What You’ll Experience
Snowshoeing	Rocky Mountain, Yosemite, Olympic	Enjoy peaceful trails through snow-covered forests. Ranger-led hikes available.
Cross-Country Skiing	Yellowstone, Glacier, Denali	Glide through scenic landscapes. Well-maintained trails and guided ski tours available.
Snowmobiling	Yellowstone, Grand Teton	Explore vast winter landscapes quickly. Snowmobile rentals and guided tours offered.
Winter Hiking	Zion, Bryce Canyon, Grand Canyon	Crisp air and fewer crowds on stunning winter trails. Easy-to-moderate hikes in snowy and desert environments.
Ice Climbing	Rocky Mountain, Mount Rainier, Acadia	Challenge yourself on frozen waterfalls and icy cliffs. Best for experienced climbers.
Wildlife Watching	Yellowstone, Denali, Grand Teton	Spot bison, elk, wolves, and bald eagles in their winter habitats. Fewer visitors mean more wildlife sightings.
Stargazing	Bryce Canyon, Big Bend, Grand Canyon	Winter skies are clearer for stargazing. Look for ranger-led stargazing events and see the Milky Way in vivid detail.
Sledding and Tubing	Bryce Canyon, Great Sand Dunes	Fun for all ages! Many parks have designated sledding hills or tubing areas for winter thrill seekers.
Ice Skating	Yosemite, Acadia, Glacier Bay	Glide across natural or park-maintained rinks. Ice skate rentals available in some parks.
Northern Lights Viewing	Denali, Glacier Bay, Voyageurs	Winter is the prime season for seeing the aurora borealis in northern parks. Best viewing during cold, clear nights.

Top National Parks for Winter Activities

Not every park is created equal when it comes to winter activities. While some parks close their roads due to snow, others turn into snowy playgrounds for adventurers.

Yellowstone National Park 

Yellowstone is perhaps the most iconic national park for winter activities. From snowshoeing through the quiet backcountry to snowmobiling along snow-packed roads, Yellowstone offers a wide range of activities. One of the highlights of visiting in winter is the wildlife. Bison, elk, and even wolves are more active in winter, and you might catch a glimpse of them as they roam the snowy landscape. The park is famous for its steaming geysers against the snowy backdrop—it’s truly a sight you won’t forget.

Yosemite National Park 

If you love ice skating and incredible winter scenery, Yosemite is the place to be. The park is stunning in winter, with the valley floor blanketed in snow and waterfalls frozen in mid-tumble. You can take a leisurely snowshoe hike, go cross-country skiing, or even skate on an outdoor rink beneath Half Dome. Yosemite also offers family-friendly options, with guided winter tours and easy trails for beginners.

Rocky Mountain National Park 

Rocky Mountain National Park is a snowshoer’s dream. The park offers dozens of trails that are perfect for both beginners and more experienced trekkers. You can also cross-country ski along groomed trails that wind through the forests and meadows, all while enjoying stunning views of the snow-capped peaks. Just keep an eye on the weather—winter storms can roll in quickly at these high altitudes.

Grand Teton National Park 

Grand Teton National Park may not be as well-known for winter activities as its neighbor, Yellowstone, but it’s a fantastic destination for those looking to experience the quieter side of winter in the national parks. You can snowshoe, cross-country ski, or just take a scenic drive and enjoy the incredible views of the Teton Range dusted in snow. Wildlife enthusiasts will love the chance to spot elk, moose, and even bald eagles.

Denali National Park 

Denali might be a bit off the beaten path, but winter is the perfect time to visit if you want to experience true wilderness. The park offers unique activities like dog sledding, which is not only thrilling but also a traditional Alaskan mode of transport. If you’re lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of the northern lights. Denali’s remote beauty makes it ideal for those who want to escape into nature during the colder months.

Winter Hiking: Embrace the Cold

Hiking in winter is just like summer hiking, except everything wants to kill you. But fear not! With these tips, you’ll be conquering snowy trails like a yeti in no time:

Snowshoeing is one of the easiest winter sports to pick up—even for beginners. If you can walk, you can snowshoe.

1. Layer Up: Think of yourself as a human burrito. Base layer, mid-layer, outer layer. If you don’t look like the Michelin Man, you’re doing it wrong.
2. Invest in Good Boots: Your sneakers won’t cut it here, Cinderella. Get some waterproof boots with good traction. Your toes will thank you when they’re not black with frostbite.
3. Bring Snacks: Nothing’s worse than being hangry on a mountain. I once tried to eat a frozen Quest Bar and nearly chipped a tooth. Learn from my mistakes.
4. Know Your Limits: If you’re more “couch potato” than “mountain goat,” maybe start with a shorter trail. The mountain will still be there tomorrow, but you might not be if you overdo it.
5. Tell Someone Your Plans: Let a friend know where you’re going. If you don’t come back, they can heroically come rescue you. Or at least post a nice tribute on your Instagram.

Here are some things to keep in mind if you’re planning to hike or snowshoe in a national park during winter:

• Gear Essentials: Warm, waterproof boots are non-negotiable. You’ll also need snowshoes (most parks rent them if you don’t own a pair), trekking poles for stability, and plenty of warm layers. A good pair of gaiters will keep snow out of your boots, and don’t forget to pack gloves, a hat, and sunglasses or goggles to protect your eyes from the bright snow.
• Trail Selection: Not all trails are suitable for winter hiking. Some are simply too steep or dangerous when covered in snow and ice. Stick to well-marked trails, and if you’re snowshoeing, follow the paths marked specifically for it.
• Timing: Winter days are short, so it’s best to start early and plan to finish your hike well before sunset. You don’t want to get caught in the park in the dark, especially in freezing temperatures.
• Trail Etiquette: If you’re snowshoeing, try to avoid walking in ski tracks. Skiers need those smooth tracks, while snowshoers can blaze their own path beside them.

Here are a few beginner-friendly snowshoeing trails across different national parks:

• Bear Lake Loop (Rocky Mountain National Park)
• Length: 0.6 miles
• Time: 30-45 minutes
• Difficulty: Easy
• Features: A short, scenic trail that loops around Bear Lake. Perfect for first-time snowshoers, with incredible views of the surrounding peaks.
• Badger Pass Trail (Yosemite National Park)
• Length: 1.5 miles
• Time: 1-2 hours
• Difficulty: Easy
• Features: Starting near the Badger Pass Ski Area, this gentle trail offers great views of Yosemite’s snowy landscape without too much elevation gain.
• Mammoth Hot Springs Terrace Loop (Yellowstone National Park)
• Length: 1.75 miles
• Time: 1-2 hours
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Features: This loop takes you around the fascinating travertine terraces, with the added bonus of seeing the hot springs steaming in the winter air.

Cross-Country Skiing in National Parks

As for cross-country skiing, imagine if skating and hiking had a baby. It’s graceful, efficient, and a great way to cover ground. Until you fall. Then it’s just a great way to get snow in your pants.

If you’re new to cross-country skiing, the idea is simple: it’s all about gliding across the snow, using your poles and skis to propel yourself forward. You don’t need to rush; it’s about enjoying the quiet beauty of the landscape.

Here is a chart for the H3 “Top Parks for Cross-Country Skiing” that you can copy and paste into a Google Doc:

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National Park	Best Ski Trails	Trail Difficulty	What to Expect
Yellowstone	Lone Star Geyser Trail, Blacktail Plateau Trail	Beginner to Intermediate	Ski past steaming geysers and frozen waterfalls. Well-groomed trails with wildlife sightings along the way.
Glacier	Apgar Lookout Trail, McDonald Creek Loop	Beginner to Intermediate	Stunning views of snow-covered peaks and frozen lakes. Perfect for peaceful, scenic skiing.
Denali	Savage River Loop, Wonder Lake	Intermediate to Advanced	Remote and wild, offering challenging trails with opportunities to see wildlife like moose and wolves.
Rocky Mountain	Bear Lake Trailhead, Glacier Basin Loop	Beginner to Intermediate	Forested trails with snow-covered pines and panoramic mountain views. Ideal for a quiet backcountry experience.
Acadia	Witch Hole Pond Loop, Eagle Lake Carriage Roads	Beginner	Carriage roads provide easy, groomed trails through picturesque woods and around frozen lakes.
Mount Rainier	Paradise Valley Road, Reflection Lakes Trail	Intermediate to Advanced	Ski through deep snow in the shadow of Mount Rainier with sweeping views of the surrounding alpine terrain.

Here’s what you need to know about cross-country skiing in national parks:

• Best Parks for Skiing: Some parks are especially well-suited for cross-country skiing due to their terrain and grooming efforts. Yellowstone, Acadia, and Grand Teton are particularly popular for their extensive ski trails.
• Equipment Essentials: You’ll need cross-country skis (which are narrower and lighter than downhill skis), poles, and boots designed for skiing. Many parks offer rental equipment, so you don’t need to buy your own unless you plan to ski regularly.
• What to Expect: Unlike downhill skiing, cross-country skiing can be much more relaxed. Trails can be flat or slightly hilly, and you move at your own pace. You’ll burn a lot of calories, though, as it’s a full-body workout, but you don’t have to be super fit to enjoy it.
• Safety Tips: As always with winter sports, dress in layers and keep an eye on the weather. It’s also a good idea to carry a map or download offline maps since snow can obscure trail markers.
• Family-Friendly Trails: Many parks have designated easy loops that are perfect for families or beginners. These trails are often groomed, meaning the snow is packed down for easier skiing.

Top Parks for Cross-Country Skiing

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Park	Trail Length	Difficulty	Highlights
Yellowstone National Park	6 miles	Moderate	Enjoy geothermal features along the Fairy Falls Trail.
Acadia National Park	10 miles	Easy to Moderate	Ski through serene woodlands and along scenic carriage roads.
Grand Teton National Park	7 miles	Easy	Ski near Jackson Hole with breathtaking mountain views.

Winter Wildlife in National Parks 

Winter is prime time for wildlife watching. Animals that are hard to spot in summer may be easier to see in the winter, thanks to less foliage and fewer people around.

And the snow makes it easier to track animal footprints, which adds a fun, twist to your outdoor adventures.

Here are some tips to maximize your chances of seeing wildlife and staying safe:

• Best Animals to Spot:
  • Elk and bison: These large mammals are active in places like Yellowstone and Grand Teton during the winter. You’ll often see them in the open valleys, grazing through the snow.
  • Wolves: If you’re lucky, you might catch a glimpse of a wolf pack in Yellowstone’s Lamar Valley. Winter is one of the best times to see these elusive predators.
  • Moose: Parks like Grand Teton and Rocky Mountain National Park are home to moose that often wander to lower elevations in winter.
• Wildlife Viewing Etiquette: Keep your distance. Even though animals might seem calm, getting too close can stress them out, especially in winter when food is scarce and they need to conserve energy. A good rule of thumb: if an animal reacts to your presence, you’re too close. Stay at least 100 yards away from large animals like bison, and never approach wildlife for a photo.
• Safety Considerations:
  • Always bring binoculars for a close-up view without disturbing animals.
  • Carry bear spray if you’re in areas with active bears, although many are hibernating in winter.
  • Stick to established trails and avoid approaching animals on foot.

Remember, wildlife watching is not a petting zoo situation. Keep your distance, or you might end up starring in your own “When Animals Attack” special.

Winter Camping and Lodging Options in National Parks

Think summer camping is tough? Try it when your water freezes solid and your tent becomes an ice cave. Winter camping is not for the faint of heart, but it’s an experience you’ll never forget (mostly because of the lingering frostbite).

It requires more preparation, better gear, and a higher tolerance for cold temperatures. Luckily, many parks also offer cozy lodges and cabins for those who prefer the warmth without missing out on the winter scenery.

Tips for Winter Camping

1. Gear Up or Give Up: Invest in a four-season tent, a sleeping bag rated for arctic exploration, and a high-quality sleeping pad for insulation from the cold ground. Also. you’ll need enough layers to make you look like the Michelin Man’s chubby cousin. Think wool socks, a winter hat, and gloves. Cold feet and hands can quickly ruin the experience.
2. Location, Location, Location: Choose your campsite wisely. Avoid wind-exposed areas unless you want your tent to become a kite. And remember, that picturesque spot by the lake? It’s probably 10 degrees colder than everywhere else. If possible, set up camp near trees or natural windbreaks to protect yourself from the wind. As always, camp responsibly by packing out all waste, including food scraps.
3. Midnight Bathroom Breaks: Prepare for the ultimate test of willpower. Is it worth leaving your cozy sleeping bag to pee, or should you just hold it till morning?
4. Cooking in Winter: Cooking in freezing temperatures can be tricky. Opt for a camp stove that works well in the cold, as some gas canisters don’t function as well when the temperature drops. Your summer trail mix won’t cut it here. Think high-calorie, easy-to-prepare meals like pasta, oatmeal, and hot soups. Also, be mindful of the length of daylight. Prepare your meals early so you aren’t cooking in the dark. Lastly, keep your water bottles close to your body unless you like “drinking” ice cubes.
5. Stay Active: Keep moving to stay warm. Jumping jacks in your sleeping bag are totally acceptable. Style points if you can do them without unzipping.

Remember, if things get too rough, there’s no shame in retreating to a warm lodge. We won’t judge!

Popular Winter Camping Spots in National Parks

• Yosemite National Park: The park’s lower elevations, like in Yosemite Valley, offer winter camping at designated sites, giving you easy access to the snowy landscapes while staying safe from extreme temperatures.
• Bryce Canyon National Park: Bryce Canyon offers winter camping at North Campground, where you’ll be surrounded by the famous red rock formations dusted with snow. The contrast between the snow and the orange rock is breathtaking.
• Denali National Park: For those truly seeking an adventure, Denali’s winter backcountry camping lets you experience Alaska’s wilderness up close. Be prepared for extreme cold but also incredible views and solitude.

Lodging Accommodations in National Parks

If winter camping feels a bit too intense, many national parks offer lodging options that allow you to enjoy the winter landscape while staying warm and comfortable. Here are some great options:

• Yellowstone National Park: Several lodges, including the Old Faithful Snow Lodge, remain open during the winter. These lodges provide a warm and cozy place to relax after a day of snowshoeing or wildlife watching. Plus, the views are incredible.
• Yosemite National Park: Yosemite Valley Lodge and the Ahwahnee Hotel (a luxury option) are open year-round. They offer the chance to stay right in the heart of the park, where you can enjoy views of snow-capped Half Dome and El Capitan from your window.
• Acadia National Park: While Acadia’s lodges are closed in the winter, nearby towns like Bar Harbor offer plenty of charming inns and cabins. These make for a perfect base for exploring Acadia’s winter trails and coastline.

Lodging vs. Camping: Which Is Right for You?

• Lodging is ideal if you prefer warmth, easy access to amenities, and a little more comfort during your trip.
• Winter camping is for those who want to fully immerse themselves in the park’s winter environment and don’t mind braving the cold for an unforgettable experience.

Safety Tips for Winter Camping: How Not to Become a Campfire Tale

Winter in national parks is beautiful, but it’s also trying its best to kill you. Here’s how to avoid becoming the subject of the next survival documentary:

• Check the Forecast: And then assume it’s lying. Weather can change faster than a teenager’s mood. Be prepared for anything.
• Avalanche Awareness: In some parks, avalanches are a real threat. Know the risks and carry proper gear if you’re in avalanche territory.
• Dress in Layers: Proper layering is key to staying warm. Start with a moisture-wicking base layer, add an insulating middle layer (like fleece), and finish with a waterproof outer shell. This system allows you to regulate your body temperature by adding or removing layers as needed.
• Watch for Signs of Hypothermia: Hypothermia is a real risk in winter. If you or someone in your group starts to shiver uncontrollably, feels confused, or becomes clumsy, it’s time to warm up fast. Always carry extra layers and make sure everyone in your group knows the signs.
• Stay Hydrated: It’s easy to forget to drink water in cold weather, but staying hydrated is just as important in winter as it is in summer. Keep your water from freezing by using an insulated bottle or storing it inside your jacket.
• Know the Terrain: Winter changes the landscape. Trails that are easy to navigate in the summer can become difficult or impossible in the snow. Always check with park rangers for current conditions and trail closures. Carry a map, and if you’re venturing into more remote areas, consider bringing a GPS device.
• Respect Wildlife: Animals are more vulnerable in winter due to the scarcity of food. Keep your distance and avoid disturbing them, especially in harsh conditions when they need to conserve energy.
• Emergency Contacts: Make sure you have the park’s emergency contact number saved in your phone, and let someone outside the park know your plans and expected return time.

What to Pack for a Winter National Park Trip

• Warm Layers: Thermal base layers, fleece pullover, waterproof jacket, insulated pants.
• Footwear: Waterproof boots with good grip, gaiters, and wool socks.
• Safety Gear: Headlamp, first-aid kit, map, GPS, and a fire-starting kit.
• Snow Gear: Snowshoes, trekking poles, or cross-country skis (depending on your activities).
• Food and Water: High-calorie snacks, a thermos for hot drinks, and an insulated water bottle.

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Winter Photography in National Parks

Winter is one of the best times to capture stunning photographs in national parks. The soft, diffused light and snow-covered landscapes create postcard-worthy scenes at nearly every turn. Whether you’re an experienced photographer or just like taking shots with your phone, there’s no shortage of opportunities to snap amazing photos.

Tips for Winter Photography

• Golden Hour: Winter days are short, which means the sun stays lower in the sky. This creates longer periods of soft, warm light, known as the “golden hour,” perfect for photography. Early mornings and late afternoons are prime times to capture breathtaking shots.
• Bring Extra Batteries: Cold weather drains camera batteries quickly. Bring extras and keep them warm in your pocket to prevent them from losing charge.
• Contrast Shots: Snow provides a great contrast for any darker subjects—whether it’s a tree, a mountain, or wildlife. Use the white snow as a natural backdrop to make your subject pop in the frame.
• Experiment with Snow Scenes: Freshly fallen snow is pristine and makes for excellent close-up shots of details like footprints, icicles, or animal tracks. Try experimenting with wide-angle lenses to capture expansive snowy landscapes or zoom in on tiny snowflakes and frost patterns for a more intimate perspective.

Best Parks for Winter Photography

• Bryce Canyon National Park: The contrast of the red rock hoodoos against the white snow is one of the most iconic winter scenes in any national park.
• Yosemite National Park: Snow-covered trees and frozen waterfalls make Yosemite a photographer’s paradise.
• Denali National Park: The vast wilderness of Denali, combined with the chance to photograph the northern lights, makes it an unbeatable spot for winter photography.

National Park Wildlife Watching in Winter

Winter is an excellent time to observe wildlife in national parks, especially if you’re patient and know where to look. With fewer visitors, animals are often more visible, and you can enjoy the serenity of nature without the crowds. Some species even stand out more against the snow, making winter wildlife watching a unique and rewarding experience.

Common Winter Wildlife

• Elk and Bison: In parks like Yellowstone and Rocky Mountain, elk and bison are often seen grazing through the snow. Bison, with their thick coats, are especially suited to survive the extreme cold and can often be found using their heads to clear snow and access grass beneath.
• Bald Eagles: Winter is prime time for spotting bald eagles in many parks, as they migrate to areas with open water to hunt for fish. Look for them perched in trees near rivers and lakes.
• Coyotes and Wolves: Yellowstone is known for its wolf populations, and winter offers a great chance to see these elusive predators. Coyotes are also active during the winter months and can be spotted hunting for small mammals in the snow.
• Moose: Parks like Grand Teton and Denali are home to moose, which are often easier to spot in the winter as they move to lower elevations in search of food. Keep an eye out for them along riverbanks and in wooded areas.

Wildlife Watching Tips

• Bring Binoculars: Wildlife can be more spread out in winter, so binoculars or a spotting scope can help you get a closer look without disturbing the animals.
• Look for Tracks: Fresh snow makes it easier to spot animal tracks. Learn to identify different prints—you might come across the tracks of deer, foxes, or even a mountain lion.
• Stay Quiet: Animals are more skittish in the winter, so move slowly and quietly. Avoid sudden movements or loud noises that could scare them off.
• Respect Wildlife: Always keep a safe distance from animals, especially in winter when food is scarce, and they need to conserve energy. Use the “rule of thumb”—if you can cover the animal with your thumb at arm’s length, you’re at a safe distance.

Best National Parks for Winter Wildlife Watching

• Yellowstone National Park: Known for its diverse wildlife, Yellowstone is the go-to park for spotting wolves, bison, elk, and bald eagles in winter. The Lamar Valley, often referred to as the “Serengeti of North America,” is particularly good for wolf watching.
• Rocky Mountain National Park: Elk and bighorn sheep are frequently seen in the park’s lower elevations during the winter months. Winter is also a great time to spot smaller animals like snowshoe hares and red foxes.
• Denali National Park: While Denali’s extreme winter conditions aren’t for everyone, those who brave the cold can be rewarded with sightings of moose, wolves, and the occasional lynx.

Guided Tours and Ranger Programs

Many national parks offer guided tours and ranger-led programs during the winter, providing a great opportunity to learn more about the park’s history, wildlife, and winter ecology. These programs are perfect for visitors who want a more in-depth experience or prefer the safety and convenience of exploring with an expert.

Types of Winter Tours

• Snowcoach Tours: In parks like Yellowstone, snowcoach tours are a popular way to explore the park in winter. These oversized, heated vehicles are designed to travel through snowy terrain, taking visitors to popular spots like Old Faithful and the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone.
• Snowshoe Hikes: Many parks, including Yosemite and Rocky Mountain, offer ranger-led snowshoe hikes. These hikes are beginner-friendly and often include lessons on winter ecology, animal tracking, and the history of the park.
• Wildlife Watching Tours: Guided wildlife tours, especially in places like Yellowstone’s Lamar Valley, provide a chance to see animals like wolves, bison, and elk with the help of an experienced guide who knows where to find them.
• Star Gazing and Northern Lights Viewing: Some parks offer stargazing programs during the winter. Denali and Glacier Bay in Alaska, for instance, are excellent places to view the northern lights. Guided night tours with rangers can offer fascinating insights into the night sky and the aurora borealis.

Benefits of Guided Tours

• Expert Knowledge: Guides and park rangers can offer detailed information about the park’s wildlife, geology, and history, making your visit more educational.
• Safety: Exploring national parks in winter can be dangerous due to snow and ice. Having an experienced guide ensures that you stay safe and follow proper winter protocols.
• Access to Hard-to-Reach Areas: Some tours take you to areas of the park that may be difficult to access on your own during the winter months, like remote geysers or wildlife hot spots.

National Parks Offering Winter Tours

• Yellowstone National Park: Snowcoach tours, snowshoe hikes, and wildlife-watching programs are popular in Yellowstone during the winter. The park also offers cross-country ski tours for those looking for a more active adventure.
• Denali National Park: Winter in Denali is wild and remote, but guided tours can help you safely experience the rugged beauty of Alaska. Northern lights tours are especially popular.
• Rocky Mountain National Park: In addition to snowshoe hikes, Rocky Mountain offers ranger-led winter wildlife tours and ecology lessons, where you can learn how animals adapt to survive the cold.

Wrap-Up: Winter Sports & Activities in US National Parks

There’s no doubt that visiting national parks in the winter offers a completely different experience from the bustling summer months.

Whether you’re seeking solitude, breathtaking snow-covered landscapes, wildlife sightings, or the thrill of winter sports, the parks have something for everyone during the colder months.

Just be sure to come prepared, pack the right gear, and respect the unique challenges that winter brings.

So why wait? Grab your sweaters, winter coat, lace up those boots, and experience the magic of America’s national parks in winter!

Frequently Asked Questions