If you’re looking for a peaceful winter escape, January is one of the best times to visit national parks. With fewer crowds, unique seasonal landscapes, and a wide range of outdoor activities, these parks offer experiences you can’t get any other time of year. Here are the best national parks to visit in January.
1. Yellowstone National Park: A Top Choice for the Best National Parks to Visit in January
Yellowstone is one of the best national parks to visit in January, especially if you love a winter wonderland. With steaming hot springs, snow-covered geysers, and wildlife like bison and wolves, the park offers unforgettable winter experiences.
Why Visit Yellowstone in January?
- Snow-Covered Landscapes: See geothermal features like Old Faithful surrounded by snow for a magical winter experience.
- Winter Wildlife Viewing: January is perfect for spotting elk, wolves, and bison in their natural habitats.
Things to Do
- Snowshoeing and Snowmobiling: Enjoy the beauty of the park while gliding across its snow-covered landscape.
- Guided Snowcoach Tours: For a unique park experience, take a guided snowcoach tour through Yellowstone’s winter beauty.
Important Tips
- Many roads are only open for snowcoach or snowmobile tours. The road from North to Northeast entrances is the only one open year-round.
- Be prepared for cold temperatures with plenty of layers.
Notable Sights to See
- Old Faithful: The iconic geyser is even more stunning when surrounded by snow.
- Mammoth Hot Springs: These terraced hot springs steam beautifully in the cold weather.
2. Saguaro National Park: Escape to the Desert—Best National Parks to Visit in January for Mild Weather
If you’re seeking a desert retreat with mild January temperatures, Saguaro National Park in Arizona is one of the best national parks to visit in January. The park’s famous saguaro cacti stand tall against the clear blue skies, and hiking here is especially enjoyable in the cooler weather.
Why Saguaro is Perfect in January
- Mild Temperatures: With daytime highs averaging in the 60s and 70s, January is ideal for outdoor activities like hiking.
- Fewer Crowds: January brings fewer visitors, so you can explore the trails in peace.
Activities to Enjoy
- Hiking: Explore scenic trails like the Desert Ecology Trail and Hugh Norris Trail for incredible desert views.
- Birdwatching: Keep an eye out for desert birds, including the Gambel’s quail and the cactus wren.
Tips for Visiting
- Dress in layers, as mornings and evenings can be cool.
- Be mindful of rattlesnakes, though they are less active during the winter months.
Key Sights
- Saguaro Forests: The iconic saguaro cacti create a stunning landscape.
- Wasson Peak: Take a hike to Wasson Peak for panoramic desert views.
3. Death Valley National Park: Perfect for Winter Exploration and Stargazing
If you’re wondering about the best national parks to visit in January, Death Valley is an excellent choice, especially if you want mild temperatures. With daytime highs in the 60s and 70s, the park is far more comfortable than during the scorching summer months.
Why Death Valley is a Great January Destination
- Mild Temperatures: January’s moderate temperatures make it perfect for hiking and sightseeing.
- Stargazing: Death Valley is one of the darkest places in the U.S., offering breathtaking views of the night sky.
Activities to Try
- Badwater Basin: Visit the salt flats at the lowest point in North America.
- Dante’s View: Take in panoramic views of the valley from this incredible vantage point.
Visiting Tips
- While the days are mild, early mornings and evenings can be cold, so bring layers.
- Check the weather forecast for occasional rainstorms.
Must-See Spots
- Badwater Basin: Explore the vast salt flats that stretch across the valley.
- Dante’s View: A must-see spot for sweeping views of the entire valley.
- Zabriskie Point: A perfect place for sunrise photography.
4. Joshua Tree National Park: Desert Beauty and Stargazing in the Best National Parks to Visit in January
Joshua Tree is one of the best national parks to visit in January for those looking for a unique desert landscape, famous rock formations, and clear skies perfect for stargazing.
Why Joshua Tree is Ideal in January
- Cool Weather: The temperatures in January make hiking and climbing more enjoyable compared to the summer heat.
- Great for Stargazing: As a Dark Sky Park, Joshua Tree offers stunning views of the stars on clear nights.
Activities in Joshua Tree
- Rock Climbing: With cooler weather, it’s the perfect time to try rock climbing in this renowned destination.
- Hiking: Explore trails like Hidden Valley or Barker Dam for great hikes and stunning desert scenery.
Things to Know
- Be prepared for chilly mornings and evenings; bring layers.
- The winds can be strong, so check the weather before heading out.
Key Sights to Explore
- Joshua Trees: These iconic trees give the park its signature look.
- Arch Rock: A natural rock arch that’s perfect for photography.
- Cholla Cactus Garden: A beautiful spot at sunrise or sunset, filled with cholla cacti.
Closures
- Cholla Cactus Garden and 49 Palms Trail Closures:
- Cholla Cactus Garden will be closed daily from December 2024 to March 2025 for trail improvements.
- 49 Palms Oasis Trail will be closed Monday-Thursday from December 2024 to March 2025 for repairs.
5. Sequoia National Park: Snowy Wonders and Giant Trees in the Best National Parks to Visit in January
For a winter escape among the tallest trees in the world, Sequoia National Park is a top contender for the best national parks to visit in January.
Why Visit Sequoia in January
- Snow-Covered Giant Trees: See the famous sequoias in a snowy landscape—an awe-inspiring experience.
- Winter Activities: Snowshoeing, sledding, and hiking through the snowy forest are some of the highlights.
Things to Do in Sequoia
- Visit General Sherman Tree: The world’s largest tree looks even more majestic with snow surrounding it.
- Snowshoeing: Several trails are open for snowshoeing, offering a quiet, wintery experience in the park.
Tips for Visiting
- Be ready for snowy roads. Some roads, like Mineral King Road, are closed for the season, and chains may be required on certain routes.
- Dress warmly for cold conditions, especially at higher elevations.
Must-See Sights
- General Sherman Tree: The largest living tree on Earth.
- Moro Rock: A short hike to the top of this rock offers stunning winter views.
- Tunnel Log: An iconic fallen sequoia that creates a natural tunnel.
Closures
- Highway 180 Access to Cedar Grove: Closed for the season, typically reopening in late April.
- Mineral King Road: Closed for the winter season, typically reopening in May.
Why These Are the Best National Parks to Visit in January
If you’re looking for a winter getaway, the best national parks to visit in January offer a variety of landscapes, from snow-covered forests to desert oases. Whether you’re into snow sports, stargazing, or simply exploring nature, these parks provide the perfect winter escape. Just be sure to check for seasonal closures and prepare for the unique conditions each park offers. Happy adventuring!
If you’re excited to explore the best national parks to visit in January, don’t forget to follow along with our journey on social media for more travel tips, photos, and updates! You can find us on Instagram, Pinterest, and Youtube for more adventures. And for even more inspiration, check out our other blog posts on the best National Parks to visit each month and the top states to visit in 2025. We hope these guides help you make the most of your travels and create unforgettable memories in the wild!
