North America

15 Underrated National Parks in America to Visit in 2021

November 30 2020 by Mariam Askarian Leave a Comment

There are 62 designated national parks in the US and this guide covers the most underrated national parks in America. Tell us your favorite in the comments!

Everyone in the United States knows about Yellowstone, Yosemite, and the Everglades. But not everyone knows about or is familiar with the magnificent parks on this guide.

While these parks don’t make the list of the least visited national parks in the US, they sure aren’t getting the visitor numbers that they deserve.

The most visited US national parks tend to be outstanding in nature but also accessibility. The least visited are also outstanding in nature, but simply not as accessible (have you seen how many are in Alaska alone?!). These parks are a mixture but most are fairly accessible!

VISIT A LOT OF US NATIONAL PARKS?

If you are visiting any US National Park, or any of the other 2,000 federal registered sites in the US, we highly, highly recommend purchasing an ‘America the Beautiful’ pass that lasts for 1 year and grants you admission to all registered sites. At only $79.99, it is a steal and one of the best values for your buck for US travel!

>> Purchase your National Parks Pass here and start traveling!

So, as a result, these US national parks are the most underrated, in our opinion. Which park is the most underrated US national park in your eyes?

Most Underrated National Parks in the US – The Map

To add this map to your Google Maps account, click the ‘Star’ icon next to the map name. You can then view it on your cell phone or computer by heading to your Google Maps account, click the menu and add it to ‘Your Places’.

America’s Underrated National Parks

1. Denali National Park & Preserve

Location: Alaska
Visitor numbers (2019): 601,152

Denali National Park - Alaska — Denali National Park

Denali National Park and Preserve is a biosphere reserve with an area of over 6 million acres It is located in the very center of the peninsula in Alaska.

The word “Denali” is translated from the Athapaskan language as “great”. The park got its name in honor of the majestic mountain located in its territory, the highest peak in North America, Denali.

The mountain was formerly referred to as Mount McKinley and it is part of the Alaskan Range. The southern and northern slopes are covered with coniferous forests and the landscapes of the park consist of lakes of glacial origin and mountain valleys, dotted with many picturesque rivers.

Flora and fauna in Denali NP are a mix of Asian and North American species. The Alaska national park is home to grizzly bears, black bears, elks, beavers, squirrels, foxes, caribou, and much more. The park is crossed by a railway, as well as trekking trails and bus routes for campers.

Top attractions near and in Denali National Park: Denali (tallest mountain in North America), Wonder Lake, Denali Park Road, Eielson Visitor Center, Mount Foraker, Ruth Glacier, Denali Visitor Center, Mount Healy Overlook Trail, Horseshoe Lake Trail, Kantishna Wilderness Trails, Savage River Loop Trailhead, Murie Science and Learning Center, Polychrome Overlook

2. North Cascades National Park

Location: Washington
Visitor numbers (2019): 38,208

Frozen Thorton Lake and Trappers Peak. North Cascades National Park, Washington — North Cascades National Park

North Cascades National Park doesn’t get nearly the love it deserves. True, it is located in a rather remote location, but it is so picturesque that it is one of the most beautiful spots in the US, hands-down.

The underrated national park is located in the northern part of Washington and around 3 hours from Seattle. It is one of the snowiest places in the US and while most of it shuts during the winter months, adventurers will love that it offers a magical wonderland like no other!

But, what really sets North Cascades apart is its hiking, rafting, horseback riding, climb, and other outdoorsy opportunities for visitors. It has a lot of the most challenging hikes in the US and is worth a visit if you want to combine gorgeous scenery with tough hikes.

Top attractions near and in North Cascades National Park: Diablo Lake, Ross Lake, Mt. Baker Ski Area, Mount Shuksan, Cascade Pass, Washington Pass, Baker Lake, Sahale Mountain, Maple Pass, Desolation Peak, Artist Point, Sahale Glacier, Hidden Lake Lookout, Gorge Creek Falls, Ladder Creek Falls, Bagley Lakes, Picture Lake, Stehekin Valley Ranch

3. White Sands National Park

Location: New Mexico
Visitor numbers (2019): 608,785

White Sands National Park in the United States — White Sands National Park

White Sands National Park is a national park in the state of New Mexico that is home to the largest area of gypsum sand dunes, making it a unique place worth visiting. While the sand may resemble snow, be sure that it is not as the summers are blisteringly hot!

The sand is so white and illuminating that it can even be a challenge to photograph the New Mexico national park during many hours of the day. Even a polarizing filter can hinder photography here!

There are a limited number of plants and animals living at White Sands National Park due to its rough terrain but the ones that do live there are extraordinary. You can find the White Sands Pupfish there and it is the only place in the world where it is located!

White Sands National Park is definitely one of the most underrated US national parks and the otherworldly scenery will blow your mind!

Top attractions near and in White Sands National Park: Dunes Life Nature Trail, Interdune Boardwalk, Sunset Stroll Meeting Area, Alkali Flat Trailhead, Holloman Lake, Raptor Lake

4. Wind Cave National Park

Location: South Dakota
Visitor numbers (2019): 615,350

Wind Cave National Park in SD — Wind Cave National Park

Wind Cave National Park is located in South Dakota and it was the first cave to be designated as a national park.

The South Dakota national park is home to the world’s largest collection of rare box formations and it is home to a 28,295-acre nature reserve, making the park definitely one to put on your USA bucket list.

Stories and information about the cave date back to 1881 when the Bingham brothers passed by and heard a unique hissing sound that was coming from the cave’s only natural entrance. After, the cover was discovered and made public.

However, once investigated, Wind Cave was actually used by Native Americans as a sacred site for centuries before its 1881 discovery. The national park offers several ranger-led tours that can take visitors through narrow passages to check out the remarkable geological phenomena!

Top attractions near and in Wind Cave National Park: Wind Cave National Park Visitor Center, Cold Brook Canyon Trail, Lookout Point Trail, Centennial Trail #89, Rankin Ridge Trail

5. Kings Canyon National Park

Location: California
Visitor numbers (2019): 632,110

Kings Canyon National Park in California — Kings Canyon National Park

Kings Canyon National Park is one of the most beautiful national parks in California and is definitely worth visiting for those that love multi-day hikes and stunning nature and hiking.

Geographically, Kings Canyon National Park is located on the southern end of the eastern slope of the Sierra Nevada mountain range in California. It is often referred to alongside Sequoia National Park.

A feature of these two parks, in addition to the unique ecosystem protected by UNESCO, is the common flora and fauna that exists inside them.

Visitors of the California national park often come to see the giant sequoias that grow next to the largest tree in the world called ‘General Sherman’. Be sure to stop by Grant Grove inside Kings Canyon, since a common road connects the parks and is called Generals Highway.

Another perk of heading to Kings Canyon National Park is that you only need to pay one entrance fee to visit both Sequoia and Kings Canyon.

Top attractions near and in Kings Canyon National Park: General Grant Grove, Hume Lake, Lake Sabrina, John Muir Wilderness, Zumwalt Meadows, Rae Lakes Loop Trailhead, Mist Falls, General Grant Tree, North Palisade, Big Pine Lakes, Kings Canyon Visitor Center, Kearsage Pass, Grizzly Falls Picnic Area

6. Voyageurs National Park

Location: Minnesota
Visitor numbers (2019): 232,974

Voyageurs National Park northern lights in Minnesota — Voyageurs National Park

For some reason, Voyageurs doesn’t get a lot of love. Minnesota has nature reminiscent of that of inland Norway and you will find many beautiful forests, islands, and interconnected waterways at this national park.

During the spring and summer months, you can treat yourself to the many berries that grow wild across the land. And during the winter months, you can enjoy the frozen lakes, cross-country skiing, and snowmobiling opportunities.

Voyageurs National Park is also a sight to behold during the autumn when the trees change color and are an electrifying shade of warm colors.

Top attractions near and in Voyageurs National Park: Ash River Visitor Center, Ellsworth Rock Gardens, Northern Lights Resort and Outfitting, Vermilion Gorge, Sand Point Lake, Rainy Lake Visitor Center, Cruiser Lake Trail, Birch Grove Resort, Namakan Lake, Grassy Bay

VISIT A LOT OF US NATIONAL PARKS?

>> Purchase your National Parks Pass here and start traveling!

7. Glacier Bay National Park & Preserve

Location: Alaska
Visitor numbers (2019): 672,087

Glacier Bay National Park in Alaska glacier sea — Glacier Bay National Park

Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve is located on the southeastern coast of Alaska, rather close to the capital city of Juneau.

Encompassing an area of 3.2 million acres, you will be greeted by glaciers, icebergs, snow-capped mountain peaks, majestic fjords, forested slopes, and so much more!

Some of the wildlife calling Glacier Bay home are bears, deer, and whales and you need to take this into account if you’re visiting and keep your distance and respect the wildlife and nature of the national park in Alaska.

The park is open all year round, 24 hours a day, but in winter, the park’s offerings are limited. From the end of May to September, it is declared the official tourist season in Glacier Park NP and that is when you will see most tourists visiting.

This is definitely one of the most underrated national parks in America and one worth visiting!

Top attractions near and in Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve: Margerie Glacier, Johns Hopkins Glacier, Mount Fairweather, Lituya Bay, Tarr Inlet, Muir Glacier, Glacier Bay, Alsek Lake

8. Petrified Forest National Park

Location: Arizona
Visitor numbers (2019): 643,588

Petrified Forest National Park hiking trails in Arizona — Petrified Forest National Park

Arizona offers much more than just the Grand Canyon! Petrified Forest National Park is an ancient forest in the middle of the desert and is not what you usually expect – it is much more interesting than meets the eye.

Over time, the Arizona forest began to turn to stone, as minerals like quartz gradually replaced the remains of the wood. The result is multi-colored stone logs that are far too fascinating to miss.

Do not pick up or take home anything inside of this park! This will result in a hefty fine. One of the unusual attractions in Petrified Forest is the old Painted Desert Inn Cafe and Hotel on old Route 66, a must-stop for all travelers. It is like a time capsule transporting you back to the 1950s!

Top attractions near and in Petrified Forest National Park: Painted Desert Inn, Blue Mesa, Rainbow Forest Museum, Agate Bridge, Agate House, Jasper Forest, Painted Desert Visitor Center, Pintado Point, Giant Logs, Tawa Point, The Tepees, Crystal Forest Trailhead

Additional reading:

Best places to visit in Arizona

9. Capitol Reef National Park

Location: Utah
Visitor numbers (2019): 1.226 million

Landscapes in Capitol Reef National Park in Utah — Capitol Reef National Park

A fantastic US national park that is highly underrated is Capitol Reef National Park in Utah.

One of Utah’s ‘Mighty 5’, this south-centrally located national park is known for being red rock country and you will find several geological formations that will blow your mind- from cliffs to domes to canyons and more! It also has several natural bridges.

Capitol Reef is about 60 miles long and only 6 miles wide. It was designated a US national park in 1971 and tends to bring more tourists in during the summer months, but it is an outstanding, and underrated US national park all months of the year. It sits in the shadows of many other Utah landmarks and shouldn’t!

Top attractions near and in Capitol Reef National Park: Water Pocket Fold, Hickman Bridge Trailhead, Capitol Gorge, Grand Washington, Hickman Natural Bridge, Capitol Reef, Fremont River, Cathedral Valley Road, Cohab Canyon, Goosenecks Overlook, Gifford Homestead, Temple of the Sun, Thousand Lake Mountain, Panorama Point, Cassidy Arch Trailhead

10. Theodore Roosevelt National Park

Location: North Dakota
Visitor numbers (2019): 691,658

Underrated national parks - Hoodoos at Theodore Roosevelt National Park — Underrated national parks – Hoodoos at Theodore Roosevelt National Park

In Theodore Roosevelt National Park, one can see not only outstanding landscapes but also monuments dedicated to one of the United States’ most prolific Presidents.

The park is a dedication to Teddy Roosevelt who really amplified and cherished the US national parks. The North Dakota national park is home to numerous representatives of wildlife – bison, pronghorns, elk, white-tailed and black-tailed deer, wild horses, bighorns, as well as other small mammals, amphibians, and reptiles.

If there is enough rainfall in the spring, wild plants bloom across the plains and along the river banks. The park is not crowded, and you can enjoy the solitude just like Teddy Roosevelt did.

One notable activity that this North Dakota landmark offers is horseback riding through the hills and lands, all the way across the Little Missouri River.

Top attractions near and in Theodore Roosevelt National Park: Chateau de Mores State Historic Site, South Unit Visitor Center, Bully Pulpit Golf Course, Wind Canyon Trail, ND Cowboy Hall of Fame, Sully Creek State Park, Maltese Cross Cabin, Badlands Overlook, Elkhorn Ranch, Caprock Coulee Trail, Painted Canyon Nature Trail, Oxbow Overlook, Cannonball Concretions Pullout

11. Crater Lake National Park

Location: Oregon
Visitor numbers (2019): 704,512

Crater Lake National Park in Oregon — Crater Lake National Park

The area of Crater Lake National Park is just over 181,000 acres and it was formed in 1902 around the blue lake of the same name.

The local attraction is the Lake Wanderer – a log floating vertically for over a hundred years. The wood did not deteriorate due to cold water temperatures.

There are so many things that make Crater Lake a US park worth visiting – from its surrounding mountains to Wizard Island inside of the lake and more. Most visitors venture to the Oregon national park in summer but it is worth a winter visit if you like snow.

Top attractions near and in Crater Lake National Park: Wizard Island, Mount Mazama, Mount Scott, Cleetwood Cove Trail, Mount Thielsen, Garfield Peak, Watchman Peak Trail, Plaikni Falls, Pinnacles Overlook, Vidae Falls, Jackson F. Kimball State Recreation Center

Additional reading:

Crater Lake in winter

12. Biscayne National Park

Location: Florida
Visitor numbers (2019): 708,522

Biscayne National Park Stiltsville — Biscayne National Park

This is a unique US national park because 95% of it is located underwater! This colorful park is just at Miami’s doorstep and consists of 30 islets and deep forests of mangroves on land.

Biscayne National Park is 173,000 acres of crystal-clear Caribbeanesque water that is washed by the shallow seagrass of Biscayne Bay. This area and down into the Florida Keys is the 3rd-largest coral reef in the world!

Biscayne NP hosts some of the best snorkeling and scuba diving opportunities in the United States and you can even swim with manatees and over 200 species of fish, such as coral bites, tooth silver barracuda, and 500lb grouper!

During summer and autumn, you will often find rain in the afternoons at the Florida national park, and also in fall, expect the possibility of tropical storms and hurricanes.

Top attractions near and in Biscayne National Park: Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park, Crandon Park, Deering Estate, Cape Florida Lighthouse, Virginia Key, Stilsville, Boca Chita Key

Additional reading:

Miami to Key West road trip stops

13. Canyonlands National Park

Location: Utah
Visitor numbers (2019): 733,996

Canyonlands National Park in Utah — Canyonlands National Park

Most of the nature reserves in southern Utah are popular for postcard views. However, the largest national park in the state, Canyonlands National Park, is also the least visited of them.

This leads to the question – why?! What is keeping the tourists away? Perhaps it is due to lack of shelter, lack of food, and limited water resources. Or maybe they are hanging out nearby at Arches National Park.

However, those ready for some epic views will be able to see nearly 300,000 acres of canyons, gorgeous vistas from Island in the Sky (mesa), sandstone towers, and some of North America’s best-preserved rock art. Also, you can take a boat tour of the Colorado and Green River Gorges (regardless of experience).

Canyonlands is a fantastic place to visit any time of the year and definitely deserves more love than it gets, making it one of the most underrated national parks in America.

Top attractions near and in Canyonlands National Park: Dead Horse Point State Park, Island in the Sky Visitor Center, Mesa Arch, Upheaval Dome, The Needles, Chesler Park, Needles District, Green River Overlook, Grand View Point Overlook, Shafer Trail Viewpoint, Labyrinth Canyon, Confluence Overlook, Druid Arch, Squaw Flat Trailhead, White Rim Overlook, Buck Canyon Overlook

Additional reading:

14. Badlands National Park

Location: South Dakota
Visitor numbers (2019): 970,998

Most underrated National Parks Badlands National Park — Badlands National Park

Badlands National Park is a lifeless geological formation and rugged terrain heavily indented by ravines and steep hills, which attracts visitors because of its uniqueness.

However, Badlands National Park is different in that the soil there has somehow managed to cover with green grass and populate its newly formed lands with various inhabitants.

This South Dakota national park is home to bison, horses, and many other animals. Excavations in these lands have revealed the remains of previously unknown species of horses: extinct mammals like the three-toed horses, camels, as well as saber-toothed tigers.

Soil erosion is the reason for the formation of such rugged terrain. Badlands NP covers an area of 244,000 acres and is definitely worth visiting and putting on your US bucket list.

Top attractions near and in Badlands National Park: Minuteman Missile Visitors Center, Ben Reifel Visitor Center, Roberts Prairie Dog Town, Pinnacles Overlook, Saddle Pass Trailhead, Yellow Mounts Overlook, Big Badlands Overlook, Fossil Exhibit Trailhead, Sage Creek Wilderness Area, Burns Basin Overlook, Prairie Homestead, Panorama Point

15. Haleakala National Park

Location: Hawaii
Visitor numbers (2019): 994,394

Haleakala National Park on the island of Maui, Hawaii — Haleakala National Park

More and more tourists are coming to the Hawaiian island of Maui, but the visitor numbers at Haleakala National Park, Maui’s only national park, are in decline.

The reason is that guests of the island rarely go beyond its luxurious beaches. However, the Hawaii national park is much more interesting and picturesque and offers an adventure all its own!

One of the best things to do in Haleakala National Park is to see the first rays of the sun at dawn illuminate the crater of the eponymous volcano. You must reserve this online beforehand, but it is a must-do for those visiting the national park on Maui.

At the top of Haleakala, there are over 28 miles of hiking trails that run around and across the craters. Haleakala Peak reaches nearly 9,842-feet above sea level, so, you may be shocked to find snow at its peak.

Top attractions near and in Haleakala National Park: The Pools at Oheo, Waimoku Falls, Pipiwai Trail, Haleakala Crater, Falls of Makahiku, Haleakala Observatory, Kuloa Point, Charles Lindbergh’s Grave, Kalahaku Overlook, Red Hill, Magnetic Peak, Pa Kaoao

Additional reading:

How to visit Haleakala National Park

We hope you enjoyed this guide to our list of the most underrated national parks in the US. If you have a US national park that you think deserves more attention or is often forgotten about, please leave a comment and let us know!

Visiting the US national parks in winter? Check out our seasonal guides below:

Pin this Underrated National Parks in the US Guide

20 Best Day Trips from Boise – Sand Dunes, Forests, & More!

November 28 2020 by Karine Davtyan Leave a Comment

Idaho is one of the most underrated states when it comes to beautiful nature in the US. These epic day trips from Boise are proof of that!

There are many places to visit in Idaho – from the hot springs in Kirkham to mindblowing Shoshone Falls. And fortunately, many of these destinations can be visited on one of the many Boise day trips that are possible if you decide to use the city as a base.

This guide walks you through our curated list of the best day trips from Boise. If we are missing a place – please leave it in the comments below!

Places to Visit Near Boise Map

Boise Day Trips (Within 2 Hours)

Bogus Basin

Distance from Boise: 18.4 miles (45 minutes)

Being merely 45 minutes north of Boise, Bogus Basin is a great location for a fun day trip, especially for those that love skiing.

Visitors can enjoy outdoor mountain activities such as hiking, biking, horseback riding, live music and events, tubing, disc golf, skiing, snowshoeing, and more! Also, the one and only mountain roller coaster in Idaho is located in Bogus Basin.

Moreover, if you’re planning to visit this magical place with children, there is a lot for them to do, such as trampolines, wall climbing, and checking out the Shafer Butte Mining Company. Note that unlimited day passes and season passes are available.

Bruneau Dunes State Park

Distance from Boise: 63.9 miles (1 hour and 6 minutes)

If you’re looking for a place to ski on dunes, then this is the only and probably one of the best places in the United States to do so. This dune is the tallest single structured one in the whole of North America, with a height of 470 ft.

When visiting Bruneau Dunes State Park, you will have a chance to rent sand boards from the Visitors Center and have some fun while riding them down the dunes.

Other available activities at the Idaho state park include birdwatching, fishing, camping, hiking, and swimming. Also, if you would like to do some stargazing, keep in mind that The Bruneau Dunes Observatory Complex is home to a 25” telescope and is one of two public observatories in Idaho.

Idaho City

Distance from Boise: 39.6 miles (54 minutes)

Idaho City, which once was a mining town, is located nearly an hour away from Boise. You can still feel the breadth of how life was here in the late 1800s.

With many antique shops, restaurants, and many unique places, Idaho City is now considered a historic city as it played a huge role during the historic gold rush in the Pacific Northwest.

Some of the main attractions in Idaho city are the Operational Saloon, which serves sarsaparilla, also has many festivals conducted during different seasons. There is also the Boise Basin Museum where visitors can take a glimpse into the past of the city.

Those are just a few of the wonderful things to do in Idaho City that make it one of the best day trips from Boise.

Operational Saloon serves sarsaparilla, festivals conducted on different seasons, and Boise Basin Museum, where visitors can have a look at the rich past of the city, are just a few highlights that can make your trip to Idaho City a day to remember.

Three Island Crossing State Park

Distance from Boise: 71.9 miles (1 hour and 10 minutes)

Located in Elmore County, Idaho, Three Island Crossing State Park is a wonderful recreation area where history lovers and nature lovers can get their fill of the place.

This park is the location where those on the Oregon Trail had to ford a river (the Snake River, to be exact). This area was used as a river crossing until Gus Glenn built a ferry across in 1869.

Today, you can venture there for some camping, hanging out in a cabin, disk golf, and more.

Eagle

Distance from Boise: 10 miles (19 minutes)

While Eagle may be an unassuming place to take a day trip from Boise to as it is essentially a suburb, you can definitely make a day of it by visiting.

The city has just shy of 20,000 residents and is known for its spas, golf courses, and spacious parks. There is a very well-known Saturday Market where visitors will be greeted with local, live music, vendors, and many produce sellers.

Eagle is known for being rather residential, but if you want to get out of the city and somewhere extremely close by, Eagle is a good choice.

Boise Day Trips (2-3 Hours)

McCall

Distance from Boise: 108.3 miles (2 hours and 14 minutes)

McCall is known as an Idaho destination that can be an excellent choice for the ones who love wild outdoor adventures.

It is great for families who are looking forward to finding a place to relax in an awe-inspiring forested mountain setting. So, if you want to relax and unwind yourself, McCall is a perfect choice!

Note that McCall is on a whole other level when it’s about winter activities. In the town, you can go snowboarding, snowmobiling, skiing, and much more.

Also, the Annual Winter Festival in McCall attracts the attention of more than 60,000 visitors to the mountains each year.

Idaho Wine Country

Distance from Boise: varies depending on where you’re going

Being based on elevations exceeding 3,000-feet and with ideal conditions for grape growing, Idaho has some of the most extensive vineyards in the Pacific Northwest.

Now there are more than 50 wineries in Idaho, most of which are located in the Snake River Valley and Eagle Foothills, Lewis-Clark Valley, and Sun Valley.

There are free tastings available mostly all year-round. The number of Idaho wineries has increased to 51, many of which are producing household brand, award-winning wines. Tour companies have day trip offers from Boise for those who want to experience Idaho Wine Country.

Silver City

Distance from Boise: 94.9 miles (2 hours and 26 minutes)

This destination is yet another ticket into the pas of an old mining town, but it has a lot to be remembered for. Heading southwest of Boise, this day trip will take you just over two hours.

In Silver City, there are more than 75 historical monuments remaining from the 19th-century. On days like the annual open house over Labor Day weekend, you can tour all the historic spots and perhaps imagine yourself horseback riding through the Owyhee Mountains as they used to do back in the day!

Silver City is indeed quite remarkable, but keep in mind that access to this city is always available throughout the year. It is accessible by vehicle only during warmer months and as soon as the weather gets colder and snow comes, you can only reach it by snowmobile.

Shoshone Falls Park (& Twin Falls)

Distance from Boise: 130.9 miles (2 hours and 5 minutes)

Shoshone Falls - Best Boise day trips — Shoshone Falls – Best Boise day trips

The home of Shoshone Falls, Twin Falls is most widely known as the Niagara Falls of the West. Those who visited this place claim that the views there are truly breathtaking.

There is a 3.6-mile hike to Twin Falls, which is a heavily trafficked out and back trail situated near North Bend, Washington. With this hike, you can easily reach the waterfall.

The difficulty of the route is rated as moderate. The trail can also be used for walking, running, and some relaxing nature trips. The recommended season for visiting is from March until October and this is easily one of the most popular day trips from Boise.

Snake River Canyon

Distance from Boise: 130.9 miles (2 hours and 5 minutes)

Located within Twin Falls, Snake River Canyon is where the Snake River cuts through ancient volcanic ash in a canyon. For those who like to walk, visitors of the canyon can walk across the Perrine Bridge (this bridge crosses the canyon at 500-feet).

This is the only bridge in the whole United States that is open all seasons of the year and offers BASE jumping. Just a 10-mile walking path along the southern rim of Snake River Canyon gives access to the visitor’s center, waterfalls, and the city of Twin Falls.

Boise National Forest

Distance from Boise: 83.8 miles (2 hours and 11 minutes)

Boise National Forest is a beautiful land of mountains, rivers, and forests. As a result, the location can be an excellent destination for every season of the year.

You don’t need to venture all the way to spend a weekend in Yellowstone… Boise National Forest can help with that nature therapy.

The list of available activities includes hiking, biking, snowboarding (when there is snow, of course), swimming, kayaking.

All of these make us believe that a visitor to Boise National Forest won’t wind up bored! The number of visitors to the forest every year is over 1.5 million. It is an essential Boise day trip!

There are more than 80 hiking trails in Boise National Forest and one of the most prominent trails is the Stack Rock Trail, which is a 10.9-mile, moderate difficulty, heavily trafficked out and back trail located near Boise. This particular trail features beautiful wildflowers, with the best season being from May to October.

Hagerman Fossil Beds National Monument

Distance from Boise: 130.9 miles (2 hours and 5 minutes)

Being just around 2 hours away from Boise, Hagerman Fossil Beds National Monument is known to be home to the Hagerman Horse fossil, which is a horse that evolved in North America and featured only one toe.

Of course, the latter is not the only type of fossil you can see at this US National Monument. There are some remains of a saber-tooth cat, bear, camel, ground sloth, mastodon, giant otter, rodents, swans and other birds, frogs, and many more.

In fact, for the late Pliocene epoch, Hagerman Fossil Beds is the richest deposit of fossils in the world. So, all the “fossil lovers” and archaeology enthusiasts will most definitely love this day trip from Boise!

Hailey

Distance from Boise: 141.3 miles (2 hours and 22 minutes)

Hailey, Idaho is a city in Blaine County and is known for its location around the Sawtooth National Forest. It is renowned for its skiing and extreme sports such as snowboarding, BMX riding, skateboarding, and more.

The city has its own ski hill named Rotarun Ski Area and while it may be less famous than Sun Valley Resort nearby, it is still worth a visit.

Some of the famous mountains in Hailey are Carbonate, Red Devil Peak, and Della.

Boat Box Hot Spring

Distance from Boise: 136.2 miles (2 hours and 42 minutes)

Boat Box Hot Springs is a famous place to visit and one of the best natural hot springs in Idaho. It is renowned for its wood hot tub located on the Salmon River.

The name references the wooden crate tub that you can soak in at the hot springs. The temperature of the water sits around 110F and this is a must-visit if you’re in the Stanley area or looking for a Boise day trip out in nature.

Weekend Getaways from Boise (Over 3 Hours)

While this guide focuses on day trips from Boise, we also wanted to include a section that offers fantastic weekend getaways from Boise.

Depending on daylight hours and your will to drive, all of these can technically be a day trip (even Coeur d’Alene if you’re really adventurous!), but we recommend staying overnight if you have the chance! These are just a few of the best weekend getaways in Idaho, so leave us your recommendations in the comments!

Hells Canyon National Recreation Area

Distance from Boise: 172 miles (3 hours and 33 minutes)

Located along the eastern Oregon border and being about 3-4 hours away from Boise, Hells Canyon spreads over 3 states of Idaho, Oregon, and Washington. One of the famous things about this place is that it is known for having the deepest river gorge in North America.

Even though most of the canyon is inaccessible, you can still enjoy activities such as rafting, hiking, and jet boat rides. Apart from this, you also can see Hells Canyon Dam and take a guided boat trip along the Snake River.

Craters of the Moon National Monument & Preserve

Distance from Boise: 175.7 miles (3 hours and 30 minutes)

Massive lava flows and overall just a volcanic wonderland… this is what you can see at Craters of the Moon National Monument & Preserve. The name itself also suggests that this is something extraordinary, and it truly is!

It is just over 3 hours away from Boise, so it can be a day trip or a weekend getaway. The guests can find some educational exhibits, films, and a lot of information about this destination upon arrival at the visitors center. There are various types of guided hikes available during the summer, with different distances and difficulty levels.

For those seeking the ultimate Idaho road trip, there is a 7-mile scenic loop to enjoy from behind the wheel of your own car. Children can also find something interesting for them, like participation in a junior ranger program or any other educational program.

Sawtooth National Forest

Distance from Boise: 157.3 miles (3 hours and 9 minutes)

Sawtooth National Forest is on the list of must-sees outside of Boise. Explore the location by hiking or gathering with friends or family and have a one day rest (or weekend) in nature, full of wilderness and beauty.

With an area of 756,000 acres, there are more than 700 miles of hiking trails, 40 mountain peaks, and a few alpine lakes. The forest is vast and open for visitors to enjoy mountain biking, rafting, wildlife spotting, kayaking, boating, swimming, canoeing, photography, and other outdoor recreation activities.

During the wintertime, Sawtooth National Forest also has skiing, snowboarding, snowmobiling, and snowshoeing available in the area.

In addition to all of this, many campgrounds and cabins for rent are also offered in the National Forest. This is a magnificent weekend trip from Boise and one you must do yourself!

City of Rocks National Reserve

Distance from Boise: 208.9 miles (3 hours and 17 minutes)

One of the best places to enjoy backcountry adventuring is the City of Rocks National Reserve, situated in southern Idaho, just 2.5 hours away from Boise. This national reserve has an area of 14,407 acres and is a place where rock climbing, camping, hiking, and hunter are among the popular outdoor activities.

If needed, you can reach the visitor’s center for the City of Rocks and the nearby Castle Rocks State Park. They are open year-round and are both located in the Almo historic village.

St. Anthony Sand Dunes

Distance from Boise: 319.6 miles (4 hours and 31 minutes)

This is yet another great site located nearly 320 miles away from Boise, making it a fantastic weekend getaway from Boise.

St. Anthony Sand Dunes is perfect for off-roading, sandboarding, hiking, and horseback riding. The dunes are ranging from 10 feet tall to up to 400 feet high and they catch the attention of riders from throughout the west.

In case you’re interested to know the story of the formation of the dunes, know that they were formed about 10,000 years ago, approximately at the end of the last ice age when the Earth’s climate shifted and Eastern Idaho’s climate became a lot drier and warmer.

Coeur D’Alene

Distance from Boise: 458.3 miles (6 hours and 50 minutes)

Coeur d’Alene is a city located in northern Idaho and it is the county seat of Kootenai. The estimated population is just over 50,000 and the area is so naturally beautiful that it is best visited as a long weekend trip from Boise.

There is plenty to do in Coeur d’Alene such as hiking to Cougar Bay, visiting Silverwood Theme Park, and venturing to Independence Point. The nature around Coeur d’Alene is the main reason people visit the city and they are never left disappointed!

There are so many amazing and beautiful day trips from Boise and we hoped we highlighted some of the best. If you have any suggestions of the best Boise day trips (and Boise weekend getaways!), please leave a comment below.

Pin This Boise Day Trips Guide

25 Least Visited National Parks for Your USA Bucket List

November 26 2020 by Megan Starr Leave a Comment

Curious what the least visited national parks in the US are and what is keeping them a secret?

This guide will list the 25 least visited US national parks and why you should add them to your USA bucket list!

There are 62 designated US national parks but there are over 2,000 federally registered sites in the country. This list only covers the designated national parks.

We are also including the 2019 visitation numbers for each park as well as some of the top sights and attractions within the respective parks. Click here if you’re keen to know more about the most visited parks in the US.

VISIT A LOT OF US NATIONAL PARKS?

>> Purchase your National Parks Pass here and start traveling!

Is your favorite park on this list? If so, why are people not visiting it, and what is keeping it a secret? Let us know your favorite!

Least Visited US National Parks – The Map

Least Popular US National Parks

1. Gates of the Arctic National Park

Location: Alaska
Visitor numbers (2019): 10,518

If you’re looking to escape far off the grid in the US, definitely venture to the far north to Gates of the Arctic National Park and Preserve in Alaska.

Despite the serenity and mind-blowing nature of this part, its location leaves it at number one on the list of the least visited national parks in the United States.

Gates of the Arctic does not have any well-defined or marked trails and roads which also restricts its access. However, if you’re a true adventurer, you can enjoy camping and the midnight sun during the summer months. This Alaska national park sits underneath aurora-filled skies during the winter months.

Top attractions near and in Gates of the Arctic National Park: Arrigetch Peaks, Alatna National Wild and Scenic River, Takahula Lake, Walker Lake, Mount Igikpak, Oolah Valley, Sukakpak Mountain, Nutirwik Creek

2. Kobuk Valley National Park

Location: Alaska
Visitor numbers (2019): 15,766

Kobuk Valley National Park is located in Northwest Alaska and is famous for its sand dunes. These sand dunes are a result of glaciers grinding the rocks beneath them for thousands of years. It is also common to see a caribou casually strolling around in this park.

The Kobuk River flows throughout this park attracting animals like bears, wolves, foxes, and moose. Visitors can often catch sight of all these animals in their natural habitat. This is the second least visited national park in the US, mainly due to its inaccessibility.

Top attractions near and in Kobuk Valley National Park: Great Kobuk Sand Dunes, Salmon River, Waring Mountains, Hunt River, Akillik River, Mount Angayukaqsraq

3. Lake Clark National Park and Preserve

Location: Alaska
Visitor numbers (2019): 17,157

Lake Clark National Park and Preserve is located in some of the most remote areas of Alaska. This park is a combination of many natural phenomenons – steaming active volcanoes, rugged mountains, calm lakes, and an array of wildlife that includes brown bears, moose, and wolves.

Tourists who have visited this park swear that this is one of the best national parks in America, but even then, it is the nation’s third-least visited one. Kayaking, hiking, powerboating, and biking are a few of the major activities one can enjoy here while experiencing the beauty this park offers.

Top attractions near and in Lake Clark National Park and Preserve: Newhalen Lodge, Mount Neacola, Two Lakes, Kontrashibuna Lake, Tanalian Mountain, Tlikakila River, Upper Tazimina Lake, Turquoise Lake, Telaquana Lake

4. Isle Royale National Park

Location: Michigan
Visitor numbers (2019): 26,410

Isle Royale National Park is an island(s) in Michigan surrounded by Lake Superior. This park gives a soothing and peaceful experience because of its isolated location away from the hustle of city life. The only way to visit here is via a private boat, ferry, or seaplane.

Upon reaching the Michigan national park, visitors will find rugged shorelines, forests, trails for trekking, and many other islands that can be visited by boats.

The cold waters of Lake Superior have helped keep shipwrecks intact and this has turned this national park into an unassuming scuba diving location.

Top attractions near and in Isle Royale National Park: Ryan Island, Siskiwit Falls, Huginnin Cove, Tobin Harbor, Isle Royal (Menagerie Island) Lighthouse, Passage Island Lighthouse, Rock Harbor Lighthouse, Mount Ojibway, Rock of Ages Lighthouse, Lake Desor, Siskiwit Lake, Scoville Point, Minong Ridge, Lookout Louise, Windigo, Chickenbone Lake

5. North Cascades National Park

Location: Washington
Visitor numbers (2019): 38,208

In the northern part of Washington state, North Cascades National Park is a top-rated US destination, but not that frequented by visitors. This underrated national park is located merely 3 hours from Seattle, making it relatively accessible on a Seattle weekend getaway.

Also known as the “American Alps”, this Washington national park is one of the snowiest places in the United States (and the world!). Despite this, there are many activities to keep visitors occupied and some of these include river rafting, horseback riding, climbing, and backpacking over hundreds of different hiking trails.

North Cascades has a combination of shorter trails and longer ones, and while there is a trail for every skill level, this PNW park is renowned for its challenging hikes.

6. National Park of American Samoa

Location: American Samoa
Visitor numbers (2019): 60,006

The National Park of American Samoa is one of the most secluded national parks as it is located in the South Pacific. The entire park is spread throughout three islands, Tutuila, Ofu, and Tau. It is located over 2,600 miles away from Hawaii in a southwest direction.

American Samoa is home to a variety of species of fish and corals. Visitors can bring their snorkeling gear and dive for an unforgettable experience.

The hiking trails throughout the American Samoa national park are along the open ocean, giving scenic views to trekkers. These islands are full of Samoan culture and tourists can stay with Samoan families and learn about their culture and heritage.

7. Wrangell-St. Elias National Park & Preserve

Location: Alaska
Visitor numbers (2019): 74,518

Wrangell-St. Elias National Park and Preserve is spread over 13.2 million acres, and yet it is one of the least visited national parks in the USA. Located in Alaska, the designated national park is saturated with glaciers, covering about 35% of the entire area.

Tourists can start following a receding river in the opposite direction to find the source of the glacier and have a captivating experience.

Sixteen of the country’s tallest mountains are in this national park- which is a pretty astounding number! The name of this park is derived from Mount Wrangell, which is one of the largest, active volcanoes in the world.

If a tourist visits this park on a clear day, he or she could catch sight of the smoke released constantly from inside of it. This is one of the least visited US national parks, but most definitely one of the most epic and worthy of visitors.

Top attractions near and in Wrangell-St. Elias National Park: Mount Wrangell, Mount Blackburn, Kennicott Glacier, Root Glacier Trail, Kennecott Mines National Historic Sight, Gilahina Trestle & Hiking Trail, Liberty Falls State Recreation Site, Disenchantment Bay

8. Dry Tortugas National Park

Location: Florida
Visitor numbers (2019): 79,200

Dry Tortugas National Park is located about 70 miles from Key West, Florida to its west. This park is 100 miles of beautiful views and captivating flora and fauna.

However, most of this Florida national park is made of water and includes seven small islands which are a part of the third-largest reef system in the world, the Florida Keys reef system.

Tourists can visit shipwrecks and explore the abundant and rich marine life at this national park. They can also explore one of the largest forts of the 19th-century, Fort Jefferson, on gorgeous Garden Key. This place is known for its camping and stargazing experiences.

Top attractions near and in Dry Tortugas National Park: Garden Key, Loggerhead Key, Bush Key, Garden Key Lighthouse, Fort Jefferson

Additional resources:

9. Katmai National Park

Location: Alaska
Visitor numbers (2019): 84,167

Katmai National Park and Preserve in Alaska is extraordinarily rich in biodiversity. This park is home to so many different wildlife species.

If you are an enthusiast of brown bears and love them (I wouldn’t run up to try to pet them, on the other hand), this is the right national park for you! Katmai is filled with over 2,000 brown bears and you can experience their way of living right in front of you, albeit from a safe and respectable distance.

Along with the diverse number of mammals in the park, there is also plenty of sea life to see there, including humpback whales and sea otters. Outdoor enthusiasts, especially fishermen and hikers, are fascinated with this park once they visit it!

Top attractions near and in Katmai National Park: Brooks Falls, Mount Katmai, Valley of Ten Thousand Smokes, Hallo Bay, Novarupta, Katmai Bay, King Salmon Visitor Center

10. Great Basin National Park

Location: Nevada
Visitor numbers (2019): 131,802

Great Basin National Park is one of the least visited national parks and it is located in eastern Nevada. This Nevada national park has an elevation ranging from 5,000 feet to 13,000 feet.

This lesser-known park contains every possible habitat like desert, mountains, glaciers, caves, and springs. The presence of all these different landscapes and geological formations also showcases a lot of different vegetation.

Great Basin National Park is home to a variety of mammals, bird species, conifer tree species, and various other plant species.

Top attractions near and in Great Basin National Park: Wheeler Peak, Lehman Caves, Teresa Lake, Stella Lake, Wheeler Peak Scenic Drive, Lehman Caves Visitor Center, Jeff Davis Peak, Baker Lake, Baker Archeological Site

VISIT A LOT OF US NATIONAL PARKS?

>> Purchase your National Parks Pass here and start traveling!

11. Virgin Islands National Park

Location: USVI
Visitor numbers (2019): 133,398

It might come as a surprise to many tourists, but yes, the US Virgin Islands is home to one of the beautiful US national parks, too!

Virgin Islands National Park is located mostly on St. John, the largest island there, and it provides an opportunity for visitors to get information about the abandoned trade of sugarcanes and have a look at their ruined plantations and the island’s tumultuous and tragic history.

Boating enthusiasts can relax and have fun in the calm waters at Trunk Bay, which is home to a magnificent beach. This national park is so rich in nature and activities. A snorkeling or diving trip will allow you to experience the clear Caribbean waters along with an array of coral reefs.

12. Congaree National Park

Location: South Carolina
Visitor numbers (2019): 159,445

Congaree National Park in South Carolina is the largest old-growth forest range consisting of the country’s tallest trees. Some of the tallest trees in the South Carolina national park are over 550 feet in height. You can follow the park’s many trails to admire and view these trees.

The Congaree and the Wateree Rivers meet in this national park. This gives a chance for tourists to experience canoeing, hiking, fishing, and hiking, of course.

Between mid-May and mid-June, this national park experiences heavy rainfall with flooding. But this also gives a fantastic view of synchronous fireflies which can be viewed easily from greater heights. In the rainy season, this park is around 90% submerged in water.

Top attractions near and in Congaree National Park: Poinsett State Park, Millford Plantation Historic Site, Cedar Creek Canoe Launch, Congaree Bluffs Heritage Preserve, Sampson Island, Hopkins Graded School

13. Pinnacles National Park

Location: California
Visitor numbers (2019): 177,224

Unlike Yosemite and the Redwood National Parks in California, Pinnacles National Park is smaller and lesser-known but full of freshness and cool things to do.

The underrated California national park is renowned for its pinnacles (towering rock formations) which is the same formation that gives the park its name. These pinnacles were formed due to volcanic activities in this region over 23 million years ago.

Visiting Pinnacles National Park will be a treat for your eyes as you can witness the blooming wildflowers and poppies if you arrive during spring. It is very common to catch sight of peregrine falcons, golden eagles, and California condors because this park is their home!

Hiking in Pinnacles is also an experience because some trails start in gorges in between the pinnacles that make you feel like you’re starting off in a cave of some sort.

Top attractions near and in Pinnacles National Park: Bear Gulch Nature Center, Peaks View, North Chalone Peak, High Peaks, Old Pinnacles Trail, Moses Spring Trail, Bear Gulch Cave Trail

14. Guadalupe Mountains National Park

Location: Texas
Visitor numbers (2019): 188,833

Guadalupe Mountains National Park is a mixture of canyons and mountains with desert terrain and sand-dunes. All the four tallest mountains in the state of Texas are situated in this park. All these mountains together form a series of hiking trails with more than 80 miles. These awesome trails offer some spectacular views throughout the barren landscapes.

The Guadalupe Mountains are home to a variety of species of bats and exhibit a wide range of flora and fauna, making this Texas national park very colorful and appealing to visit.

Top attractions near and in Guadalupe Mountains National Park: Guadalupe Peak, El Capitan, Mckittrick Canyon, Frijole Ranch Cultural Museum, Salt Basin Dunes, Pine Springs Visitor Center, Pratt Cabin, The Pinery Butterfield Stage Station Ruins, Devil’s Hall, Bartlett Peak

15. Voyageurs National Park

Location: Minnesota
Visitor numbers (2019): 232,974

If you want to change up the scenery a bit, this Minnesota national park is the place for you. Voyageurs National Park is a series of lakes with interconnected waterways, giving the visitors a chance to explore their own private islands!

In spring and summer, this is the perfect destination to cool yourself down in the water while enjoying the region’s organic strawberries, blueberries, and hazelnuts.

And in winters when the lakes are frozen, one can enjoy riding snowmobiles and going cross-country skiing. Namakan Lake is especially sought after during fall as its shore gets extremely colorful from the foliage of the maple trees.

16. Kenai Fjords National Park

Location: Alaska
Visitor numbers (2019): 356,601

Kenai Fjords National Park may be Alaska’s most visited national park but it still makes the least of the least visited national parks in the US due to numbers.

The park is situated at the edge of the Kenai Peninsula and is known for its mind-blowing glaciers flowing from Harding Icefield, as well as many other natural phenomenons that take place in the park.

There are many ways to experience Kenai Fjords National Park from taking a boat tour to visiting the Exit Glacier to attending a ranger-led program where you can learn more about the park and the Sugpiaq people that have relied on the resources and nature around this park for centuries.

Top attractions near and in Kenai Fjords National Park: Exit Glacier, Bear Glacier, Aialik Glacier, Kachemak Bay State Park, Tonsina Point, Lost Lake Trail, Mount Marathon, Pedersen Glacier, Chiswell Islands, Exit Glacier Nature Center, Fort McGilvray, Resurrection River Trail

17. Channel Islands National Park

Location: California
Visitor numbers (2019): 409,630

Channel Islands National Park offers some of the most pristine and untouched scenery of any of the national parks in the US due to the effort needing to be made to reach the five islands that make up this California National Park.

If you do get to make it to this lesser-visited US national park, you will be greeted with unique scenery and flora/fauna that can be found nowhere else on Earth.

The best way to reach Channel Islands National Park is by a ferry from mainland California (Ventura is one of the cities) and once you reach the islands, there are many hiking trails and beautiful vistas you can visit to take in the scenery. You can also camp in Channel Islands National Park.

The 5 islands making up Channel Islands National Park are Anacapa, Santa Barbara, Santa Rosa, Santa Cruz, and San Miguel.

Top attractions near and in Channel Islands National Park: Anacapa Island, Santa Barbara Island, Cavern Point, The Robert J Lagomarsino Visitor Center (in Ventura), Potato Harbor Road, Scorpion Ranch, Anacapa Island Lighthouse, Smugglers Cove, Water Canyon Beach

Additional resources:

18. Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park

Location: Colorado
Visitor numbers (2019): 432,818

This gorgeous Colorado national park does not seem to be on the radar of many people, but it most definitely should be!

Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park is large but has an intimate feeling, nonetheless. It contains some of the oldest rocks and steepest cliffs in North America and 2 million years of erosion and changes have helped the Gunnison River form some of the United States’ most spectacular landscapes.

Top attractions near and in Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park: Chasm View Nature Trail, Museum of the Mountain West, South Rim Visitor Center, Painted Wall, Warner Point Nature Trail, Tomichi Point, Pulpit Rock Overlook, Sunset View

Additional resources:

Facts about the Rocky Mountains

19. Carlsbad Caverns National Park

Location: New Mexico
Visitor numbers (2019): 440,691

Carlsbad Caverns National Park is located in southeastern New Mexico in the Guadalupe Mountains close to the Texas border. The main attraction in the parks is the jaw-dropping Carlsbad Cavern show cave.

There is an elevator that can take guests down to the caves or you can go via the natural entrance. Carlsbad Cavern is one of the best places to visit in New Mexico and it contains a big limestone chamber called the Big Room that is the largest chamber on the entire continent (and 31st largest in the world).

Top attractions near and in Carlsbad Caverns National Park: Carlsbad Caverns National Park Visitor Center, Slaughter Canyon Cave, Slaughter Canyon Trail, Rattlesnake Historic District, Black River Recreation Area

20. Big Bend National Park

Location: Texas
Visitor numbers (2019): 463,812

Located in West Texas, Big Bend National Park borders Mexico and is known for its notable Chihuahuan Desert topography and ecology.

The national park is renowned for its hiking trails and barren landscapes but it is home to over 1,200 plant species, 450 bird species, and 75 mammal species.

One of the most popular things to do in Big Bend National Park is to go for a drive along the Texas park’s many scenic routes. It is also a famous stargazing place.

While hiking may be the main attraction in Big Bend, you can also find sea fossils and dinosaur bones in the park which makes it a great place for those into history and geology. It is a great park for families to visit.

Top attractions near and in Big Bend National Park: Santa Elena Canyon, Lost Mine Trail, Emory Peak, Ross Maxwell Scenic Drive, Cattail Falls, Rio Grande Village Nature Trail, Sam Nail Ranch, Fossil Discovery Exhibition, Boquillas Canyon Trail, Langford Hot Springs, Homer Wilson Ranch, Balanced Rock, Santa Elena Canyon Overlook, Window Trail

VISIT A LOT OF US NATIONAL PARKS?

>> Purchase your National Parks Pass here and start traveling!

21. Redwood National Park

Location: California
Visitor numbers (2019): 504,722

Redwood National Park is often listed along the state park of the same name and they are a collection of several state and national parks in Northern California. They are comprised of Redwood National Park (1968), Del Norte Coast, Jedediah Smith, Prairie Creek Redwoods State Parks, and much more.

These parks make up at least 45% of the remaining redwoods, some of the oldest and tallest trees on the planet. This is truly a spectacular sight and one of my favorite places to visit not only in California but also the entire United States!

Top attractions near and in Redwood National Park: Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park, Redwood State Park, Fern Canyon, Prairie Creek, Lady Bird Johnson Grove Trail, Trees of Mystery, Stout Grove, Boy Scout Tree Trail, Stone Lagoon, Klamath Tour Thru Tree, Humbolt Lagoons State Park, Crescent Beach Overlook, Tolowa Dunes State Park, Big Tree Wayside

22. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Location: California
Visitor numbers (2019): 517,039

Northeastern California’s Lassen Volcanic National Park is a must-visit for those obsessed with hiking and geothermal landscapes.

The main attraction in the California national park is Lassen Peak, the world’s largest plug dome volcano. It is also the southernmost volcano in the renowned Cascade Range and one of the top sights to visit in California.

Another famous attraction in Lassen Volcanic NP is the Cinder Cone National Monument, a national monument that was designated by Theodore Roosevelt in 1907.

What makes this US national park so unique is that you can find boiling mud pots, hot springs, and fumaroles throughout. It truly is a spectacle and you can see all four types of volcanoes inside – plug dome, shield, cinder cone, and stratovolcano. It is one of the few places in the world where you can see all four.

Top attractions near and in Lassen Volcanic National Park: Lassen Peak, Manzanita Lake, Lassen National Forest, Cinder Cone, Lake Helen, Kings Creek Falls, Butte Lake, Sulphur Works, Juniper Lake, Kohm Yah-mah-nee Visitor Center, Emerald Lake, Loomis Museum, Bumpass Hell, Devil’s Kitchen, PCT- Warner Valley Trailhead

23. Great Sand Dunes National Park

Location: Colorado
Visitor numbers (2019): 527,546

Another Colorado national park and one of the least visited national parks on this list is Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve in southern Colorado.

Some of the sand dunes inside can be up to 750 feet tall! These are the tallest sand dunes in the United States and they cover around 30 square miles.

While the sand dunes will surely blow your mind, there are also many cool experiences in the park that don’t contain (much) sand. You can go hiking or hang out around picturesque Medano Creek.

Sandboarding and sand sledding are popular activities to do on the actual dunes.

Top attractions near and in Great Sand Dunes National Park: Zapata Falls, High Dune, Zapata Ranch, Medano Pass, San Luis State Wildlife Area, Baca National Wildlife Refuge, Tijeras Peak

Additional resources:

Rocky Mountains facts

24. Mammoth Cave National Park

Location: Kentucky
Visitor numbers (2019): 551,590

Mammoth Cave National Park is the only national park in Kentucky and it is located in the central part of the state and is part of the world’s largest cave system.

The Kentucky national park is not only a designated national park, but it is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site and has been since 1981.

Mammoth Cave NP is located on 52,830 acres of land and the Green River runs through it. There are over 400 miles of surveyed passageways in Mammoth Cave and it is nearly twice as long as the second-largest cave system in Mexico (Sac Actun underwater cave).

Top attractions near and in Mammoth Cave National Park: Diamond Caverns, Dinosaur World, Nolin Lake State Park, Crystal Onyx Cave, Froggett’s Guntown Mountain, Cedar Sink, River Styx Spring, Turnhole Bend Nature Trailhead, Sloans Crossing Pond Trailhead

25. Mesa Verde National Park

Location: Colorado
Visitor numbers (2019): 556,203

Another UNESCO World Heritage Site and the 25th least visited national park in the US, Mesa Verde National Park is located in Montezuma County, Colorado and it is one of the coolest parks, in my opinion.

This park contains (and protects) some of the best-preserved Ancestral Puebloan sights in the US and was designated a national park by Theodore Roosevelt in 1906.

There are over 5,000 sites in this southwestern Colorado national park, including 600 cliff dwellings, making it the largest archaeological preserve in the US.

Top attractions near and in Mesa Verde National Park: Cliff Palace, Balcony House, Spruce Tree House, Long House, Square Tower House, Mesa Top Loop, Chapin Mesa Archaeological Museum, Mesa Verde Visitor and Research Center, Step House, Cortez Cultural Center, Oak Tree House, Far View House, Montezuma Valley Overlook

Planning Your National Parks Trip?

Are you looking for the best times of the year to visit national parks? These guides break down our curated list of the best US national parks to visit in different months:

These parks are the least visited national parks that you definitely need to add to your USA bucket list! Have you been to any of them?

Be sure to check out our guide to the most visited US national parks too! Which National Park is your favorite?

Pin this Least Visited National Parks in the US Guide

16 Best Stops on Your Miami to Key West Road Trip (+ Map)

November 24 2020 by Megan Starr Leave a Comment

If I made a list of my favorite road trip adventures in the US, a Miami to Key West road trip would definitely be floating near the top.

I have made a road trip from Miami to Key West at least four different times and throughout various times of the year, resulting in some epic stories (and many, many mishaps!)

This guide will detail how to take the ultimate Miami to Key West road trip and will tell you about several fantastic places to stop on your Miami to Key West drive!

You can make this road trip to Key West from Miami in one day so we have given some Miami to Key West itinerary options that will take you from one Florida destination to the other in 1, 2, or 3 days.

I will note now that does NOT take long to make this drive- but there is a lot to see on the way if you want to break it up a bit!

This guide will also detail places to eat and where to stay along the way, in addition to mileage and approximate driving time (including fuel costs). If you have any recommendations or tips, please leave them in the comments!

Miami to Key West Drive Map

We have created a map to help you plan this trip! You can check out our Miami to Key West road trip map below. It highlights all places on this guide.

Miami to Key West Trip on Roadtrippers

For road trips, I use a map app called ‘Roadtrippers’. This app is brilliant and it creates maps like none other – you can see everything from times, points of interest on your route, estimated gas costs, accommodation options, and more!

This is one of my top recommended apps and I use Roadtrippers Plus to create maps for the trips I take. If you want to sign up and create your own, you can save $5 by clicking here and using my promo code BTR5QTP.

Renting a Car in Miami

If you’re looking to rent a car in Florida for your road trip to Key West, we recommend finding one that is fuel-efficient and getting full-coverage insurance with the rental car agency on the car. This will give peace of mind when you’re exploring all the awesome places to visit in Florida!

It is also advised to book ahead because if you wait until the last minute, you may end up stuck with something you don’t want to drive or can’t afford! In addition, rental cars usually need to be booked by the card of the main driver. Not always, but I have found that in the US, this is often the case in many states.

>> Click here to check rental car rates in Miami

National Parks Pass

If you are visiting any of the national parks or sights in Florida (the Everglades are in Southern Florida – hint, hint!), or any of the other 2,000 federal registered sites in the US, we highly, highly recommend purchasing an ‘America the Beautiful’ pass that lasts for 1 year and grants you admission to all registered sites. At only $79.99, it is a steal and one of the best values for your buck for US travel!

>> Purchase your National Parks Pass here and start traveling!

Old Bridge going to Key West FL road trip — Old Bridge as seen from Bahia Honda State Park

Florida Keys Road Trip Stops – Our Favorites

This guide contains 16 worthy stops in between Miami and Key West. Here is a quick reference guide to the stops we love and think should be included in your Florida Keys itinerary:

Coral Castle
Manatee Bay Eco Tours
John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park
Dagny Johnson Key Largo Hammock
Crocodile Lake National Wildlife Refuge
Wahoo’s Bar and Grill
Ligumvitae Key State Park
Islamorada Brewing & Tasting Room
Florida Keys Brewing Company
Windley Key Fossil Reef Geological State Park
Indian Key Historic State Park
Long Key State Park
Old Seven Mile Bridge
Burdines Waterfront (Restaurant)
Bahia Honda State Park
Blue Hole (Big Pine Key)

Miami to Key West Drive Itinerary

One of the biggest mistakes people make when embarking on the drive from Miami to Key West is that they don’t stop except for food and gas. And, there are quite a few cool places to see.

While 3 days is very long for the trip to Key West from Miami, I am planning this out in a way that will allow people to take 1-3 days on their Miami to Key West itinerary and adjust accordingly.

Below are the days, destinations, and approximate mileage for the journey:

Day 1: Miami to Key Largo (69 miles, 1 hour and 21 minutes)
Day 2: Key Largo to Marathon (48 miles, 1 hour and 4 minutes)
Day 3: Marathon to Key West (45 miles, 1 hour and 1 minute)

Day 1 – Drive from Miami to Key Largo

Distance: 69 miles
Time: 1 hour, 21 minutes
Fuel: about $7
Attractions on the way: Coral Castle (Homestead), Manatee Bay Eco Tours (North Key Largo), John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park (Key Largo), Dagny Johnson Key Largo Hammock (Key Largo), Crocodile Lake National Wildlife Refuge

On the first day of this Miami to Key West road trip, you will be making the journey from Miami down into the Upper Keys. However, depending on how you want to break up this trip, there are quite a few places you could stop along the way, including the Everglades, before getting to the islands.

Get your US National Parks Pass for only $79.99 here!

I didn’t include the Everglades in this guide as most people visit as a day trip from Miami and not en route to the Keys, but please know that it is a possibility and a sensible detour if you opt to do it!

This first part of the itinerary takes you from Miami to Key Largo, where you will find plenty of places to stay overnight.

The distance is only about an hour and a half, maximum, and most people choose to skip Key Largo, but I think it is an underrated place due to its parks and refuges and that it is worth a stop (or an overnight).

Below are some of the highlights in Key Largo, Florida:

Crocodile Lake National Wildlife Refuge: This wildlife refuge is a satellite of the National Key Deer Refuge and was established under the Endangered Species Act of 1973.

It covers 6,700 acres (650 of which are open water). You will find a variety of habitats including salt marshes, tropical hardwood hammock, mangrove forests, and more. Some species you’ll find here are the American crocodile, Key Largo woodrat, and the Schaus’ Swallowtail butterfly.

John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park: This state park is unique and such a worthwhile stop for those on a Miami to Key West road trip. John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park is the first undersea park in the United States and it spans approximately 70 nautical miles.

Some of the things you can do at this Florida state park is to check out the mangroves and tropical hammocks, take a glass-bottom boat tour, go scuba diving or snorkeling, canoeing, kayaking, fishing, and more. It truly is a must-visit on your drive from Miami down to the Keys!

Top-rated restaurants in Key Largo: The Fish House, Lazy Lobster Seafood Restaurant, Mrs. Mac’s Kitchen, Key Largo Conch House, Doc’s Diner, Key Largo Fisheries Backyard Cafe.

Where to Stay in Key Largo

There are a variety of places to stay in Key Largo. Here are some hotels and Airbnbs in Key Largo, Florida:

Hotels: Key Largo Bay Marriott Resort (3-star hotel on the Bay), Baker’s Cay Resort Key Largo (4-star luxury on the Gulf), Coconut Palm Inn (mid-range accommodation located in Tavernier right on the Florida Bay).
Airbnbs: Bayside Cabin On the Sea (entire guesthouse in Key Largo), Tiburon Cottage (seaside apartment in Key Largo), Key Largo waterfront home (has a tiki bar and boat dock)

Pro tip: I have previously stayed at the Key Largo Bay Marriott Beach Resort and while I don’t love recommending chain hotels (I was there for a wedding), it did offer a beautiful view over the Bay and you could see manatees hanging out in the waters which was pretty cool!

Day 2 – Drive from Key Largo to Marathon

Distance: 48 miles
Time: 1 hour, 4 minutes
Fuel: about $5
Attractions on the way: Lignumvitae Key State Park (Islamorada), Windley Key Fossil Reef Geological State Park, Indian Key Historic State Park (Islamorada), Long Key State Park, Old Seven Mile Bridge (Marathon)

For the second part of your Florida Keys road trip, you will make your way from Key Largo to Marathon, via Islamorada (one of my favorite places in the Florida Keys!).

One of the reasons I am fond of Islamorada is because it is home to craft beer in the Florida Keys. Well, one of the homes as you will find Florida Keys Brewing Company and Islamorada Brewing Company both located on the island. They are BOTH worth a stop. If you are driving- they sell to-go options for your journey so you can buy and drink somewhere else.

The driving distance from Key Largo to Marathon is merely an hour and four minutes and this will give you ample time to stop and explore places along the way.

Another perk of Islamorada is that it is home to one of my favorite restaurants in the Florida Keys, Wahoo’s Bar and Grill Restaurant. While it is not upscale dining, it does have sea views and a good atmosphere (and some solid fish tacos).

Here are some of the highlights for the trip from Key Largo to Marathon:

Lignumvitae Key State Park (Islamorada): You will need a boat/kayak to visit this Florida state park. It is a park teeming with tropical hardwood hammock and it will transport you back to the 1930s. Please note that it is only open from Thursday until Monday from 8am until 5pm.

Windley Key Fossil Reef Geological State Park (Islamorada): Another popular state park in Islamorada is Windley Key Fossil Reef Geological State Park.

The park is formed from Key Largo limestone (fossilized coral) and today you can visit the 8-foot high quarry walls to learn more about the history of ancient coral that is preserved in the park. The park is closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays.

Long Key State Park: Open year-round from 8am until sunset, Long Key State Park has long been a famed tourist spot for the affluent, but it has transformed into a haven for bird-watching, kayaking, relaxing, and swimming. Click here for more.

Old 7-mile Bridge (Marathon): At the very western edge of Marathon, you will find the Seven Mile Bridge that connects the Middle Keys to the Lower Keys (where Key West is). You will also see the Old Seven Mile Bridge, an old engineering feat that was constructed in the early 1900s to connect the railway to Key West.

The bridge was replaced in the 1980s and is currently used as a fishing pier and walking route and is placed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Top-rated restaurants in Islamorada: Wahoo’s Bar and Grill Restaurant, Lorelei Restaurant & Cabana Bar, Florida Keys Brewing Company, Islamorada Brewing & Tasting Room, Lazy Days Restaurant, Chef Michael’s, Marker 88, Meze Morada, Morada Bay, Islamorada Fish Company

Eating at Wahoo's Bar and Grill in Islamorada area — Wahoo’s in Islamorada is a cheap and quick place to eat with ocean views

Top-rated restaurants in Marathon: Island Fish Company, Burdines Waterfront, Irie Island Eats, Fish Tales Market and Eatery, Keys Fisheries, 7 Mile Grill

Where to Stay in Marathon

There are a variety of places to stay in Marathon. Here are some hotels and Airbnbs in Marathon, Florida:

Hotels: Tranquility Bay Resort (4-star resort in Marathon with beachfront accommodation), Isla Bella Beach Resort & Spa (private beach area 5-star luxury hotel), Sea Dell Motel (2-star, budget accommodation in Marathon – fun fact – I stayed here back in like 2005 or something!)
Airbnbs: Angler’s Terrace (entire house with private pool and rooftop terrace), Waterfront home in Key Colony Beach (dock and private corner lot), Guest suite in Marathon (tiki hut and waterfront property), Casa Mariposa (entire guest suite with an easy walk to Sombrero Beach)

Pro tip: If you decide to stick around Islamorada and enjoy the beer and restaurant scene (can’t blame you!), a great place to stay is at Bud N’ Mary’s.

The name may be a bit unassuming but I stayed there on a whim as I was desperately looking for a place last minute on a Key West Miami road trip a few years back and it was a rather cool experience! There is a huge harbor (it is a sport fishing area) where you can watch the sunrise and take it all in. It is also an independently-owned business.

Day 3 – Drive from Marathon to Key West

Distance: 45 miles
Time: 1 hour, 1 minute
Fuel: about $5
Attractions on the way: Bahia Honda State Park, Blue Hole on Big Pine Key

Bahia Honda State Park on your Miami to Key West drive

Your third day on this Miami to Key West road trip will be completely at your leisure as I suspect many completed the road trip within a day or two and not three. However, this day includes one of my favorite places in the Florida Keys, Bahia Honda State Park.

The distance from Marathon to Key West is 45 miles and will take around an hour without any stops. But, you should stop at Bahia Honda!

Visiting Dry Tortugas? Get your US National Parks Pass for only $79.99 here!

Here is a bit of information about Bahia Honda State Park and the Blue Hole on Big Pine Key, as well as a few restaurant recommendations along the way to Key West:

Bahia Honda State Park: At Mile Marker 37, you will find fantastic Bahia Honda State Park, with award-winning beaches and a historic bridge. The park is on an uninhabited island that encompasses over 500 acres and has some fantastic snorkeling and beaches (I have been there 4 times- I can attest to this!).

There are snorkel tours, kayak rentals, a snack bar, and gift shops available, so you will be able to make a good day or half-day visiting Bahia Honda State Park.

Bahia Honda State Park is open from 8am until sunset, daily. There is an entrance fee and it is $8 per vehicle.

Blue Hole (Big Pine Key): The Blue Hole is an abandoned rock quarry that was used for Henry Flagler’s Overseas Railroad (that never really came to fruition). While I think there is not much to see there, you can find iguanas, key deer, snakes, alligators, and more.

Top-rated Restaurants in Big Pine Key: Big Pine Rooster, Milagro Restaurant and bar, Florida Keys Cafe, Island Deli, Trianos Taco Company, Coco’s Kitchen

Where to Stay in Key West

There are a variety of places to stay in Key West (like lots and lots!). Here are some hotels and Airbnbs in Key West, Florida:

Hotels: Kimpton Winslow’s Bungalows (mid-range accommodation with an outdoor, heated swimming pool), Margaritaville Key West Resort & Marina (4-star luxury in downtown Key West), Barbary Beach House Key West (mid-range 1.6 miles from Duval Street), Avalon Bed and Breakfast (3-star B&B located on Duval Street)
Airbnbs: Duval Balcony Spanky’s Retreat (entire apartment on Duval), Condo in Mallory Square (has a pool and fits 2 guests), Colorful Cottage (accommodates 3 guests located in the downtown area), Private room near Duval (gorgeous room with pool and happy hour)

Pro tip: Okay, so this is definitely stating the obvious, but accommodation in Key West is far more expensive than other places in the Keys. If you’re looking for budget accommodation, opt to stay in Marathon or somewhere in the Middle and Upper Keys instead.

Alternatively, if you’re traveling to Key West in winter or the off-season, accommodation is far more affordable!

Miami to Key West Road Trip (1 Day Suggested Itinerary)

If you’re eager to make the trip to Key West all in one day (which is totally feasible… don’t let this post throw you off!), here is my suggested Miami to Key West itinerary:

Leave Miami
Visit John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park for an hour or two
Lunch at Wahoo’s Grill and Bar (Islamorada)
Grab some beers to-go in Islamorada at Islamorada Brewing or Florida Keys Brewing Company (if you are driving- otherwise stop in and have a few if you’re the passenger!)
Stop in Bahia Honda State Park for a few hours
Arrive in Key West

If you’re staying in the Keys for two days before venturing all the way to Key West, I recommend picking and choosing what fits your travel needs on this list.

If you’re a nature person, there are plenty of state parks along the way that are worthy of visiting! If you’re a foodie, there are several places to grab delicious and fresh seafood as you make your way to Key West.

We hope that this guide to the best stops on your Miami to Key West road trip helps you plan your itinerary for this epic adventure!

Pin This Miami – Key West Road Trip Guide

Arches National Park in Winter: Best Tips, Activities, & More!

November 20 2020 by Megan Starr Leave a Comment

Are you looking to visit Arches National Park in winter? This guide will help you plan that trip!

Arches National Park is one of the most visited US national parks and it is just as spectacular during winter as it is during the warmer months.

This travel guide will inform you of all the awesome things to do in Arches National Park during winter, including lodging, the best hikes, winter activities, park information, and more!

Are you simply seeking the best tours from Moab to see Arches (and Canyonlands) on your trip? Here are some of the top-rated Moab tours:

From Moab: 4×4 half-day tour of Arches National Park (from $110 per person)
From Moab: 4×4 whole day tour of Arches NP and Canyonlands NP (from $188 per person)
From Moab: 4×4 Arches National Park hiking tour (from $188 per person)
From Salt Lake City: Private tour of Arches National Park (from $300 per person)

If you have any tips for an Arches National Park winter trip, please drop them in the comments to help future travelers!

Reasons to Visit Arches National Park in Winter

Arches National Park is one of the most beautiful parks to visit in winter (seriously!). The most popular time to visit Arches is during spring and fall, which are more temperate compared to the scorching summers but warmer than the depths of winter.

However, while winter weather in Arches may not be the most predictable, the sheer lack of crowds makes it one of the best times of the year to visit.

The quietness of the park is perfect for those hoping to photograph the beauty of Arches National Park in winter. During the peak season, it is not uncommon to have to wait in line for your opportunity to take a photograph of some of the extraordinary structures and it is unlikely that your shot will be clear of people.

Sunrise of North Window Arch and Turret Arch after snow in Arches National Park in winter — Sunrise at Arches National Park in winter

Thankfully, despite its high altitude, the park rarely sees heavy snowfall and the entire park is accessible throughout the whole year.

However, because of smaller crowd numbers, some of the facilities at Arches National Park close for the offseason, but you will still find plenty to do and see within this incredible US national park.

Quick Facts about Glacier NP

Location: Utah
Size: 76,679 acres
Annual Visitors: 1,663,557 (in 2018)
Established: April 12, 1929
Closest big city: Moah, UT
Glacier National Park Highlights: Delicate Arch, Landscape Arch, Balanced Rock, Fiery Furnace, Double Arch, Corona Arch, Slickrock Bike Trail, Devil’s Garden Trail, Ute Petroglyphs

When is it Winter in Arches National Park?

Winter in Arches National Park lasts from the beginning of December until early March. While the weather is tolerable during the winter months, it is still cold. Thankfully, there is little chance that winter weather will close the park, roads, or trails.

This alone makes Arches National Park one of the best US national parks to visit in December, January, and February.

How Cold Does it Get in Arches National Park? (Temperatures & More)

Temperatures in winter are much cooler than the oppressive summer temperatures.

Generally, between December and March, the temperatures fluctuate between 30°F (-1°C) and 50°F (10°C). During the night temperatures drop even further to lows of 18°F (-8°C), with the cloudless night skies allowing any heat built up during the day to dissipate.

Here are the average temperatures for Arches National Park in December, January, and February:

December: Highs of 5C/41F, Lows of -7C/20F
January: Highs of 5C/40F, Lows of -8C/18F
February: Highs of 9C/49F, Lows of -4C/25F

Does it Snow in Arches National Park?

Yes, it does snow in Arches National Park, although not often. When it does snow, it tends to be a light covering that melts fairly quickly.

Winter sunrise driving on a highway through Arches National Park — Driving in Arches National Park

Snow is unlikely to ever close the park or any of the roads within the park. However, some trails can be a little riskier if there is snowfall, especially the parts that are shaded throughout the day.

Along with occasional Arches National Park snowfall, there is also the chance of rainfall in the park.

What to Wear When Visiting Arches National Park in Winter

One great thing about visiting Arches in winter is that it is never extremely cold, so you can just wear layers and take them off accordingly. However, you still need to pack some winter gear!

Here are my recommendations for what to wear and bring to Arches National Park in winter:

Note: I am a huge fan of REI for all of my winter gear in the US, but I also love throwing minimalistic Scandinavian brands into the mix. I am listing an array of my favorite winter gear below.

Waterproof shoes / hiking boots (especially if you’re hiking and the weather is not favorable… I have been using these Keen Targhees for over 10 years… no joke!)
Hat (I have heaps but my favorites are from Libertine-Libertine and Samsøe & Samsøe)
Fleece jacket
Gloves or mittens (I prefer mittens but not always practical for activities)
Neck gaiter (I love this one from Kari Traa)
Comfortable socks (I am the blister queen)

What to Pack for Arches National Park in Winter (Gear & Miscellaneous)

There are a few non-clothing items that I highly recommend bringing with you when you visit Arches National Park:

Trekking poles (great for beginner hikers or those with a poor gait)
Sunscreen (the sun shines A LOT here… even during winter! I love Sunbum sunscreens)
Water bottle (I use this Klean Kanteen one)
Odor-blocking storage bags (to use for food waste)
Mosquito and insect repellent
Mobile power bank (phone batteries deplete faster during winter)
First-aid kit
US National Parks Pass (saves so much money and can be used at over 2,000 sites!)

Things to Know Before Traveling to Arches National Park in Winter

Visiting Arches National Park in winter is a relatively stress-free experience, thanks to the lack of crowds and somewhat favorable weather.

However, there are still a few things that you should know before planning your winter trip to Arches National Park.

While the weather is rarely extreme, overnight snowfall can mean that roads can be closed in the mornings, as they will need to be cleared of snow. While they do close for short periods of time due to snow, it is typically cleared quickly and all roads should be open within a few hours of heavy snowfall.

Daytime temperatures are cold but pleasant, while during the night, they can plummet well below freezing. If you are planning to camp within the park or enjoy star gazing, it is important to bring warm clothing suited for the extreme cold and to let people know you plan to visit the park at night.

The hiking trails in Arches National Park are usually in fairly good condition but can get slippery when the snow becomes compacted or icy from other hikers.

Always keep an eye on your footing and have a Plan B ready in case you do not feel safe undertaking the hike. Although, usually the mid-day sun does a good job at melting any lingering snow and ice.

VISIT A LOT OF US NATIONAL PARKS?

If you are visiting Arches National Park, or any of the other 2,000 federal registered sites in the US, we highly, highly recommend purchasing an ‘America the Beautiful’ pass that lasts for 1 year and grants you admission to all registered sites. At only $79.99, it is a steal and one of the best values for your buck for US travel!

>> Purchase your National Parks Pass here and start traveling!

Facilities Open In Arches National Park (Winter)

The visitor center at the park remains open nearly all year, closing only for Christmas Day. However, those visiting in winter will find that there are reduced hours during the low season.

Between November and March in Arches National Park, however, there are no ranger activities. If you wish to speak to a ranger they will be available at the visitor center and will offer up helpful advice on hikes and general information about the park.

There is a year-round campsite within the park that offers 25 spots available on a first-come, first-served basis, so you will need to get in there early to avoid disappointment… especially toward the end of winter.

Things to Do in Arches National Park during Winter

Thanks to Arches National Park’s desert-like climate, the park is fully accessible year-round, and pretty much everything you could want to do in the high season is available to do in the winter.

The following activities are some of the best places to visit and things to do in Arches National Park during winter.

Delicate Arch

Delicate Arch is one of the most iconic sites in the whole of Utah. People from around the world head to Arches National Park to view the stunning rock formation, and during the summer months, huge crowds make the 3-mile round trip hike to take in the site.

One of the biggest rewards of completing this Arches National Park hike in winter is the chance that you might get to enjoy Delicate Arch on your own (or at least with fewer crowds).

Delicate Arch in Arches National Park in winter — Delicate Arch in Arches National Park

The lack of crowds means that you can snap photos at your leisure and take in the scenic views without the pressure of being around hundreds of people waiting for their turn to take a picture.

If you are lucky, you will be able to see the arch covered in snow and with gorgeous views around it, creating a unique landscape where the orangey-brown rock contrasts beautifully with the white snow.

The hike to Delicate Arch is not difficult and is about 1.5 miles each way. The middle section of the hike tends to be a little more shaded from the sun and you might need to adjust your clothing layers and attach crampons on your hiking boots, especially if it has snowed recently.

When you have finished taking in the views of Delicate Arch, you will need to follow the same path back to the beginning of the trail.

Park Avenue View Point

Park Avenue View Point is easily reached via the short Park Avenue Trail. The mile-long trail in Arches National Park will take you past some of the fantastic monolith rock formations in a canyon.

The trail is one of the first you will encounter in the park, just 2.5 miles away from the visitor center and it is open year-round.

Starting from the car park, there is a 320-foot path to the beautiful viewpoint that looks down through the canyon. From the viewpoint, you can carry on down into the canyon and enjoy more of the epic rock formations within the canyon itself.

If you chose to tackle the whole trail, it is a 2-mile hike that shouldn’t take much longer than an hour and 30 minutes. There are no actual arches within the canyon but the imposing monoliths are breathtaking in their own right. The hike is a good warm-up before attempting some of the more challenging ones within Arches.

Arches Scenic Drive

Arches Scenic Drive is an amazing 36-mile drive that winds its way through the park, taking in some of the best and most fantastic landmarks in Arches National Park and some stellar viewpoints.

Take as much time as you need to complete the drive that contains some of the park’s most famous attractions such as Balanced Rock, which is easily visible from the roadside or a 0.3-mile walk from the trail start.

Balanced Rock in Arches National Park during winter

From the Window Section of the drive, you can reach the Double Arch, the tallest arch in the park and only a 0.7-mile walk from the road.

While the route is only 36 miles long, it can take up a good chunk of your day as you will no doubt want to stop and take in the sublime beauty of the park. During winter, it is best to start off early as you will be limited by the amount of daylight.

If there has been heavy snowfall, you should expect road closures although normally by midday, most snow will have melted or been plowed off the road.

Pretty much all of the trails start from the scenic drive so you will need to complete sections of the drive in order to reach the hikes. If you plan to do some of the multi-mile hikes, it is advisable to split the drive up over multiple days.

VISIT A LOT OF US NATIONAL PARKS?

>> Purchase your National Parks Pass here and start traveling!

Devils Garden Trail

For those looking for a lengthy hike that will take up most of the day, the Devils Garden Trail is the perfect option. The trail passes by 7 of the park’s most impressive arches, more than any other trail and the hike can be tailored depending on your fitness level and time available.

Devils Garden Trail is a large 7-mile loop, with various little offshoots to explore the 7 arches along the way. The first arch along the trail is the giant Landscape Arch that miraculously suspends itself through the air.

Winter in Arches National Park - Double O Arch — Double O Arch

The path to reach Landscape Arch is an easy walk that takes around an hour, but from that point onward, the rest of the loop is more challenging as you set off on the “primitive trail”. As you work your way along the primitive trail, you will need to take little detours to reach arches such as the Navajo or Pine Tree Arches.

The hike is not for the faint-hearted and to reach the Double O Arches, you will need to cross a thin strip of rock with drops on both sides. However, the views from the trail will keep your mind off of the scarier parts of the route.

The descending sections of the Arches hike can get a little messy, so I recommend wearing high-quality clothing that you don’t mind getting dirty.

During the winter months, to complete the Devils Garden Trail, you should allow yourself a whole day, and while the route is a loop, if it becomes too challenging or you feel you are losing daylight, there is no harm in just coming back the way you came.

Photography in Arches National Park

One of the best activities to enjoy Arches National Park in winter is by photographing it. Typically during the summer months, the park is incredibly crowded and the chance of getting a clear shot without people in it is very slim.

Thankfully, in winter, you can find days when fewer than 2,000 people are visiting the park. The Delicate Arch at sunset is one of the most sought-after photos and even in winter can be a little crowded but there is a very good chance you will have ample time to take a few shots and enjoy the beauty as well.

Torret Arches at Arches National Park in Utah

If you are fortunate to visit when snow is on the ground, there is a beautiful contrast between the white of the pristine snow and the bedrock, making for otherworldly photos. For the best lighting, head to the park early in the morning or for golden hour just before sunset.

For those willing to brave the cold of a desert night, night photography in Arches NP is outstanding. It is often possible to view the Milky Way hovering just above the Delicate Arch and with the correct camera settings, you can attempt to capture both the stars lighting the night sky and the arch itself.

Stargazing in Arches National Park

Arches National Park is home to some of the darkest skies in America and it is famous for its plentiful stargazing opportunities. The park is open 24 hours a day and there is no better night-time activity than heading into the park and venturing off the road a bit to look up into the night sky.

On clear and moonless nights, they estimate that you can see over 2,500 stars above the park. The Utah national park is one of the best places to spot and enjoy the beauty of the Milky Way.

The Milky Way and thousands of stars glow brightly in the night sky above Double Arch in Arches National Park, Utah — Arches National Park at night

For the best stargazing, you will need to head north into the park away from any built-up areas, where light pollution will not reach you. From there, go on one of the shorter trails such as Balanced Rock or Panorama Viewpoint, where you will be able to enjoy both the beauty of the park and the night sky.

Once you have found your spot, it will take 20-30 minutes for your eyes to adjust to the darkness. During this time, you want to avoid anything that creates light, such as flashlights or cellphone screens, as you will lose your ability to see in the dark.

If you are planning to head on one of the longer trails such as the Delicate Arch Trail, it is a good idea to invest in a red-light flashlight, which will help light up the trail without impacting your night vision.

Finally, it is important to wear warm clothes because when night falls, so do the temperatures in Arches National Park… which will likely plummet below freezing. Also, take note of the clarity in the skies to ensure they are clear enough for stargazing in the first place.

Arches National Park Winter Lodging

Hands-down, the best place to stay for a trip to Arches National Park is in Moab, Utah. It is located close to the park and close to Canyonlands National Park.

Here are some of the best hotels in Moah to stay for a trip to Arches National Park in winter.

Hotels in Moab: Wingate by Wyndham Moab (3-star lodging in Moab), Hoodoo Moab, Curio Collection by Hilton (gorgeous 4-star accommodation 2 miles from Arches NP), Red Stone Inn (2-star budget accommodation in Moab), Red Cliffs Lodge (3-star accommodation on the Scenic Byway 15 miles from Arches)

Winter Camping in Arches

There is only one campground in Arches National Park and it is called Devils Garden Campground. During the winter in Arches NP, you will need to make a reservation at the campsite, however, and you can learn more about it here.

If you’re seeking campgrounds in Moah, there are plenty to choose from! If you’re camping and are not a member of Hipcamp, also be sure to use our code here to receive $10 off your first booking!

Here are our favorite Hipcamp verified campgrounds in and near Moab:

Cyrus and Atticus Getaway (from $59/night)
Adventure Haven close to Moab (from $34/night)

Click here for a review of why you should be camping with Hipcamp!

Airbnbs in Moab (and Nearby)

Another fantastic option of a place to stay in Moab is at the many Airbnbs that are there! This allows you to easily come and go at your own pace and feel like you’re home in the Utah city! Here are some of the best Airbnbs in Moab, Utah:

Tiny house at the edge of the desert (from $125/night)
Amazing desert sky views in Moab (from $111/night)
One bedroom entire condo in Moab (from $97/night)
Moonflower room in the comfy cactus (from $47/night)
Entire townhouse in Arches East (from $144/night)
Vintage Airstream | Moab Air Base (from $75/night) << OUR TOP PICK FOR A UNIQUE STAY!

Should You Book a Trip to Arches National Park in Winter?

In conclusion, YES, we think Arches National Park in winter is a fantastic choice and one you will also be happy with!

However, this is an incredible park to visit year-round! Click here if you’re on the hunt for other US national parks to visit in January and the other winter months!

Pin This Arches Winter Travel Guide

Glacier National Park in Winter: Things to Do + Useful Tips

November 19 2020 by Megan Starr Leave a Comment

Planning a trip to Glacier National Park in winter? The gorgeous Montana park transforms into a winter wonderland and is calling your name!

Glacier National Park has quite the summer reputation as it becomes a hiking paradise and filled with campers… but winter in Glacier National Park is just as spectacular.

This guide will tell you all the wonderful things to do in Glacier National Park during winter, including where to stay, winter activities, and practical tips.

VISIT A LOT OF US NATIONAL PARKS?

If you are visiting Glacier National Park, or any of the other 2,000 federal registered sites in the US, we highly, highly recommend purchasing an ‘America the Beautiful’ pass that lasts for 1 year and grants you admission to all registered sites. At only $79.99, it is a steal and one of the best values for your buck for US travel!

>> Purchase your National Parks Pass here and start traveling!

If you have any tips for a Glacier National Park winter trip, please leave us a comment!

Reasons to Visit Glacier National Park in Winter

There are many reasons to visit Glacier National Park during winter but the main reason is to beat the crowds. The park has far fewer crowds in winter than it does in summer.

Another perk to visiting Glacier National Park in winter is that the area becomes a wonderland for sports enthusiasts and those that love snow and ice!

Winter activities in Glacier National Park - ice climbing — There are many winter activities in Glacier National Park

With that being said, flights are also cheaper during the winter months and so are the prices of accommodation in the area.

Basically, if you love snow and experiencing a true winter, Glacier National Park is definitely one to put on your Montana bucket list.

Quick Facts about Glacier NP

Location: Montana
Size: 1,013,322 acres
Annual Visitors: 3,049,839 (2019)
Established: May 11, 1910
Closest big city: Columbia Falls, MT
Glacier National Park Highlights: Apgar Nature Center, Lake McDonald, Trail of the Cedars, Logan Pass, Iceberg Lake Trail, mountain goats

When is it Winter in Glacier National Park?

Glacier National Park experiences a pretty long winter. You will find that it is the ‘summer’ season from late May until early September and snowfall can arrive in the park as early as September.

How Cold Does it Get in Glacier National Park? (Temperatures & More)

Naturally, winter arrives when it arrives in Montana and while winter in Glacier National Park is technically December, January, and February, it can feel like winter far beyond those months.

For the sake of this guide, here are the average temperatures and precipitation days in Glacier National Park in December, January, and February:

December: Highs of -3C/27F, Lows of -10C/14F, 19 rainy days
January: Highs of -1C/30F, Lows of -9C/17F, 19 rainy days
February: Highs of 0C/32F, Lows of -10C/14F, 16 rainy days

Does it Snow in Glacier National Park?

It is not surprising at all to discover that Glacier National Park receives a lot of snow annually.

On average, you will see about 29 inches of snow near West Glacier’s Headquarters and about 157 inches at the main Headquarters.

What to Wear When Visiting Glacier National Park in Winter

I spent years living in Scandinavia and I thought that made me an expert when it came to cold weather. Needless to say, it definitely took me a couple of years to claim that expertise, after several failed attempts. When I look at it, my wardrobe for an Oslo winter is pretty much the same as during a Glacier National Park one.

Note: I am a huge fan of REI for all of my winter gear in the US, but I also love throwing minimalistic Scandinavian brands into the mix. I am listing an array of my favorite winter gear below.

Winter Parka

You need a winter parka for Glacier National Park. Point blank. I actually love my Helly Hansen Svalbard parka and I have worn it on several of my Arctic trips and it has served me so well. Helly Hansen is a Norwegian brand and they know winter and outdoor clothing well.

Because of the severe temperatures at Glacier, I only feel comfortable recommending the parka above as I haven’t had a chance to test others since this one has always done the job for me! Click here to see my Helly Hansen Svalbard parka (I own it in black because I’m boring).

Crampons

If you’re not sturdy on your feet (*sheepishly raises hand*), definitely invest in a pair of crampons for your Glacier winter trip.

What are crampons? They are basically attachable ‘traction’ for your boot. They can feel a bit awkward when you first put them on but at least you won’t end up with severe back pain from having to hold your gait funny in the end. I have used them on some of the best hikes in Banff National Park as well as some of the iciest sidewalks of my life in Norway!

I have used several types throughout the years and I found that these ones from Yaktrax are the best ones for me, personally. Click here to purchase them on Amazon.

Sorel Snowboots

There is actually nothing worse on the planet than frozen feet. At least for those surrounding me, frozen feet are a surefire way for me to complain and annoy everyone else. So, I take my snow boots seriously!

I have used Sorel Snowboots for the last 7-8 years and I love them. I think I purchased them because they were trendy at first, but they served me well and I haven’t looked back and I ended up purchasing multiple pairs. But, my favorite pair is this one.

Make sure you buy them big enough that you can throw some thick wool socks on when you’re dressing for your adventure in GNP! Click here to purchase my Sorel Snowboots on Amazon or, if budget isn’t a factor, this other Sorel pair that I recommend from REI.

In addition to what I listed above, I definitely recommend that you take a good pair of mittens (never gloves), thermals, and a hat. The hats I recommend (stylish, yet warm) are from two of my favorite Danish brands Libertine-Libertine and Samsøe & Samsøe.

By the lake during winter in Glacier National Park — Make sure you pack the right gear for winter in Glacier National Park!

What to Pack for Glacier in Winter (Gear & Miscellaneous)

Packing the right clothes is always the most challenging part, but you need to consider the other things you will bring with you, too.

Below are some items I always tote along in winter when I travel to cold places and will definitely make a great addition to your Glacier NP trip.

Mobile Power Bank

The weather will deplete your cellphone battery. I repeat- the weather WILL deplete your cellphone battery. Bring a mobile power bank with you to ensure you can snap photos whenever you want! Click here to purchase my recommended power bank on Amazon.

Extra Camera Batteries

If you’re into photography but have never photographed in a cold setting, you’re going to want to ensure you have a few extra batteries to bring along for the ride. The camera battery will deplete quicker in subzero temperatures just like phone batteries do.

I also travel with a USB charger for camera batteries that I can stick in my mobile power bank in case times get tough. Click here to find a USB charger for camera batteries.

Dry Bags

It will be snowy and the weather will be a bit off-putting on certain days on your winter in Glacier National Park vacation… so don’t let it ruin your equipment or gear! I travel with dry bags just as an extra precaution and they have served me well all over the world. These dry bags from the Friendly Swede are my favorite.

Glacier National Park Travel Tips

Winter Driving in Glacier National Park

Glacier National Park shuts down many roads during the winter. In fact, the only maintained roads are around Apgar Village, 11 miles of the Going-to-the-Sun Road (located on the western side of Lake McDonald Lodge), and a mile and a half on St. Mary Campground’s eastern side.

It is advised to monitor Montana road conditions prior to your trip to Glacier National Park in winter to ensure everything looks suitable for driving.

If you experience mild weather while there during the winter, you might get very lucky with road closures! Click here to check current road conditions.

Facilities Open at Glacier NP

While the roads in Glacier National Park may shut down during the winter months, the park is technically never closed. Winter may feel never-ending in GNP, but the park goes along with it accordingly.

As for the visitor centers, here is the winter status in GNP:

Apgar Visitor Center (West Side of the Park): open on weekends in winter (but only if staffing permits)
St. Mary Visitor Center (East Side of the Park): closed in winters (closes in early October and reopens in late May)
Logan Pass Visitor Center (Going-to-the-Sun Road): closed in winters.

Glacier National Park Winter Entrance Fee

The entrance fee for Glacier National Park during winter is $25 per car or $15 per person. The annual pass is $70 per person.

Alternatively, you can opt to get an America the Beautiful pass which will cost you only $79.99 a year and grants you access to ALL US national parks! And not only the national parks, but also the monuments and other sights. You will have over 2,000 US national sites included on the pass and it is SO, SO worth it.

>> Click here to get your America the Beautiful Pass

Things to Do in Glacier National Park During Winter

There are many things to do in Glacier National Park in winter and here are some of the top places to visit, things to do, and activities:

Go Cross-country Skiing

If you’re a lover of new adventures, then definitely opt to go cross-country skiing in Glacier National Park in winter! The ski trails offer you gorgeous views of the snow-covered paths and large trees that saturate the Montana park.

To have a safe cross-country skiing experience, it is vital to check the trail closures and potential avalanche threats. Carrying the essential equipment and ensuring you are well-experienced is also vital due to the risk of avalanches and lack of marked routes throughout the park.

Another thing to potentially watch out for is hypothermia– so dress appropriately and know your risks before going out there.

Some of the top cross-country ski areas in Glacier National Park are:

Apgar-West Glacier
St. Mary
North Fork
Lake McDonald-Avalance
Two Medicine
Marias Pass

If you’re looking for cross-country skiing outside of Glacier National Park, here are some of the top areas to consider for your adventure:

Glacier Nordic Club (at Whitefish Lake Golf Club)
Big Fork Community Nordic Center (near Swan Mountains)
Blacktail Mountain Nordic Center (located on the way to Blacktail Mountain Ski Area)
Stillwater Nordic Center (about 8 miles NW of Whitefish)

Stop by the Apgar Visitor Center

There are three visitor centers in Glacier National Park, and one of them is the Apgar Visitor Center. It is located on the western side of the park.

You can get the maps and publications of Glacier NP, one of the most visited US national parks, in this visitor center. The opening hours of this visitor center changes according to the season.

Travelers can get information about planning their Glacier National Park winter trip and activities across the region inside of the Apgar Visitor Center.

There are free parking services at the visitor center, and you can also board free shuttle buses for your trip around the park. In addition, you can also explore other useful facilities inside, such as a bookstore, restroom, and wifi.

The Apgar Visitor Center also organizes an astronomy program, and you can join it if it is currently available and something you’re interested in.

Hike to Apgar Lookout

One of the top activities in winter in Glacier National Park is the hike to Apgar Lookout. This 10.5-mile long trail steepens gradually and the hike must only be completed or attempted by those that are well-experienced. And by well-experienced, we mean… also skilled with hiking during winter conditions and snow!

After you park your car, you will need to take the left fork from the lot across the Quarter Circle Bridge. From there, you will take to the right and walk for half a mile before arriving at the actual trailhead for Apgar Lookout.

Although the trail may seem easy during the start, the latter part of the hike definitely is difficult for those that are not well-versed in hiking (and winter hiking).

However, if you have the chance to successfully complete the hike, you will be greeted by a spectacular view from Apgar Lookout over the park!

Hike Fish Creek to Apgar

The Fish Creek Campground is the beginning point for many of the hiking trails in Glacier National Park.

One of the best hiking trails in winter in Glacier National Park is the trail from Fish Creek to Apgar simply because it offers spectacular views and landscapes. The hike is around 7 miles in total.

The trail finishes at the top of Apgar Mountain. Beginner hikers may have challenges on this trail but those that are well-experienced will enjoy the process of winding through forests and rugged Montana terrain.

One thing to really watch out for, however, is wild bears. Depending on when you’re there, they ‘should’ be hibernating, but if you try tackling this hike in the shoulder season, you need to be careful.

Nearby Apgar village also offers hikers a glimpse of rural America.

Dog Sledding near Glacier National Park

Are you looking to experience the incredible wintry nature in a unique way that will leave memories for years to come? Try dog sledding near Glacier National Park at Dog Sled Adventures in Montana!

This local business offers family-friendly dogsledding in Montana right outside of Glacier National Park (on the western flank of the park). They have 130 huskies trained to pull the sleds and run through the northwest Montana scenery.

Dog Sled Adventures in Montana is open daily, weather permitting. Another perk of Montana dog sledding is that you have the chance to see other wild animals along the way. To find out more, including tour info, check out their website.

Go to Lake McDonald (West Shore)

One of the most iconic places in Glacier National Park is Lake McDonald and you can still get epic views during the winter months!

The best way to complete this hike is to snowshoe or cross-country ski. The trail will start from the south of McDonald Creek Bridge and it is around 1.8-3 miles long depending on your pace and which paths you take. You will meander through forests on this popular Glacier National Park hike.

Lake McDonald in Glacier National Park in winter

If you’re looking for something a bit more organized, opt for one of the ranger-led snowshoe walks. Also, be sure to download the skiing and snowshoeing brochures from Glacier National Park that will provide trail descriptions and maps.

Some of the landmarks you’ll see on this trail to Lake McDonald are St. Mary Lake, Red Eagle Lake, McDonald Creek, and McDonald Falls.

Hike to Apikuni Falls

Apikuni Falls is situated in Glacier National Park and the roundtrip hike there is about 2 miles in total, but it is a steep climb at around 625 feet. This means that you definitely need to be prepared before going into the hike (while it may not seem too daunting by the numbers, it is steeper than expected).

This trail winds through a dense pine forest and you can hear the water of the falls while you’re climbing.

The famous Glacier National Park hike will start right by the main road and if you have trouble making your way up there, don’t worry, there are some resting points along the way!

Visiting this popular attraction in Glacier National Park in winter also allows clearance for you to check out some of the wildlife that may greet you, such as chipmunks, mule deer, squirrels, and more.

Snowshoeing in Glacier National Park

During the winter at Glacier NP, you have to try snowshoeing, one of my favorite winter activities! Since many of the roads in the Montana national park are closed during the winters, it is truly one of the best ways to navigate the large park.

Since the park spans over one million acres in size, it gives you the chance to wander about a bit and check out as many of 60 species of mammals that call the park home. This alone makes it one of the best places to snowshoe in the world.

Snowshoeing in Glacier Lake National Park

There are several ranger-led programs in place at the visitor centers in GNP and the fee is merely $7 in order to go snowshoeing there. If desired, you can also hire a guide for the route.

Ski to Grinnell Glacier (Experienced)

Grinnell Glacier is probably the most famous glacier in the park and it is 5.1 miles one-way from the Grinnell Glacier Trailhead with an elevation gain of 1,600 feet.

So, is this famous glacier able to be seen during the winter? Technically, yes. But, it is not easy. The road may be closed and that requires you to venture there by cross-country skiing just to get to the trailhead (around 12 miles). This is definitely only for the experts and extremely experienced adventurers.

So, you’re technically looking at 12 miles to get to the trailhead, another 3.8 miles one way from the trailhead to the lake… totaling 16 miles of snowshoeing or cross-country skiing one way.

This 32-mile round trip adventure would ideally need to be completed in a single day since most campgrounds are not open. So, yes, you can technically work your way to Grinnell Glacier in winter, but only if you’re the top 1% when it comes to being equipped to do so!

Ice Fishing in Glacier National Park

Another fantastic winter activity in Glacier National Park is ice fishing. Not only is ice fishing a popular past time in Glacier National Park but also all of western Montana!

One of the most crucial things about ice fishing in Montana is that you need to plan ahead! You are going to need your normal tackle like hooks, sinkers, and bobbles but you also will need some type of bait (salmon eggs work well). Also, you will need an auger (ice drill).

Also, be sure to have an ice skimmer, shelter (if you need one), and a lot of extra clothing! Montana temperatures are unforgiving!

Glacier County has many awesome places where you can go ice fishing. Flatwater Lake is a top spot as it is the Western US’ largest natural freshwater lake. Whitefish Lake is also amazing starting in late December.

If you want to check out the perfect ice fishing itinerary for Glacier National Park and other nearby national parks, click the previous link!

Glacier National Park Winter Lodging

Since most of the park closes during winter, you definitely will need to plan your Glacier National Park lodging situation beforehand!

The following cities and towns are the best places to stay near Glacier National Park in winter:

Columbia Falls (22 miles from GNP)
Whitefish (26 miles from GNP)
Kalispell (34 miles from GNP)

All of the places offer a variety of winter accommodation for guests.

Camping Near GNP (Winter Options)

If you’re wanting to go camping in Glacier National Park in winter, you can obtain a backcountry camping permit beforehand by consulting the park services 24 hours in advance at the Apgar Backcountry Permit office.

Alternatively, you can RV camp at the Apgar Picnic Area and St. Mary Campground. The Apgar Village campstore may be open but I wouldn’t count on it. Instead, stock up on supplies and groceries in Columbia Falls or Hungry Horse.

Airbnbs near Glacier National Park

Another option of places to stay in Glacier National Park in winter is at an Airbnb near the park. Here are some of our top picks for Airbnbs in Columbia Falls, Kalispell, and Whitefish:

Honey’s Places (a beautiful bar in Kalispell from $165/night)
The Aspen Abode (entire guesthouse in Kalispell from $69/night)
“The Pines” Cabin (tiny cabin in Columbia Falls from $106/night)
Joe’s Saloon – Fort Williamson (gorgeous home in Columbia Falls from $229/night)
Stillwater View Camper (RV living in Whitefish from $129/night)
Artists’ Loft in downtown Whitefish (gorgeous condo in Whitefish from $141/night)
Ski lodge with hot tub (private room in Whitefish from $74/night)

Should You Book a Winter Trip to Glacier National Park?

If you love snow and adventure, Glacier National Park in winter is most defintiely for you! It is a winter wonderland nearly six months a year and has something to offer every active traveler.

Not an active traveler? Visiting during winter in Glacier National Park may shorten the number of activites you have to choose from, but you will be in awe of the views of the Montana bucket list destination!

If you have a favorite thing to do in Glacier National Park during winter, please leave a tip below!