8 Best National Parks to Visit in February

Visiting national parks in February offers a chance to experience these natural wonders with fewer crowds, unique winter activities, and sometimes even lower prices. Here’s a detailed guide to the best national parks to visit in February, including weather, activities, and accommodation options.

1. Yosemite National Park, California

Weather: Cold, with temperatures ranging from 28°F to 50°F (-2°C to 10°C). Snow is common, especially in higher elevations.

Things to Do:

Snowshoeing and cross-country skiing in Badger Pass.
Ice skating at Curry Village.
Visiting snow-covered landmarks like Yosemite Valley, Half Dome, and Bridalveil Fall.

Where to Stay:

The Ahwahnee Hotel (luxury).
Yosemite Valley Lodge (mid-range).
Curry Village (cabins and heated tents).

2. Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming/Montana/Idaho

Photo: CHARTON Franck / hemis.fr/Getty Images

Weather: Very cold, with temperatures ranging from 0°F to 30°F (-18°C to -1°C). Heavy snowfall is typical.

Things to Do:

Guided snowcoach or snowmobile tours to see Old Faithful and the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone.
Wildlife watching, including bison, wolves, and elk.
Cross-country skiing and snowshoeing.

Where to Stay:

Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel (open year-round).
Old Faithful Snow Lodge (open in winter, accessible by snowcoach).
West Yellowstone (various hotels outside the park).

3. Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona

Weather: Cool, with temperatures ranging from 18°F to 55°F (-8°C to 13°C). Snow is possible, especially on the South Rim.

Things to Do:

Hiking along the Rim Trail with fewer crowds.
Viewing the canyon with a dusting of snow from popular overlooks like Mather Point and Yavapai Observation Station.
Ranger-led winter programs.

Where to Stay:

El Tovar Hotel (historic and luxury).
Bright Angel Lodge (mid-range).
Yavapai Lodge (budget, open year-round).

4. Everglades National Park, Florida

Weather: Mild, with temperatures ranging from 55°F to 77°F (13°C to 25°C). Dry season with lower humidity and fewer mosquitoes.

Things to Do:

Wildlife viewing, including alligators, manatees, and a variety of birds.
Boat tours in the Ten Thousand Islands.
Hiking and biking on the Shark Valley Trail.

Where to Stay:

Flamingo Lodge and Marina (currently under redevelopment).
Nearby Homestead has various hotels and motels.
Camping at Long Pine Key Campground or Flamingo Campground.

5. Death Valley National Park, California/Nevada

Weather: Mild to cool, with temperatures ranging from 40°F to 75°F (4°C to 24°C). Clear skies and very low chance of rain.

Things to Do:

Exploring Badwater Basin, the lowest point in North America.
Hiking to Zabriskie Point at sunrise or sunset.
Touring the historic Scotty’s Castle (currently under repair) or visiting Dante’s View.

Where to Stay:

The Inn at Death Valley (luxury).
The Ranch at Death Valley (mid-range).
Stovepipe Wells Village (budget).

6. Zion National Park, Utah

Weather: Cool, with temperatures ranging from 30°F to 55°F (-1°C to 13°C). Snow at higher elevations, but lower elevations often remain snow-free.

Things to Do:

Hiking iconic trails like Angels Landing or Lower Emerald Pools.
Scenic drives through Zion Canyon.
Snowshoeing or cross-country skiing in the Kolob Canyons area.

Where to Stay:

Zion Lodge (inside the park, mid-range).
Hotels in Springdale, just outside the park.
Camping at Watchman Campground (open year-round).

7. Big Bend National Park, Texas

Weather: Mild, with temperatures ranging from 40°F to 70°F (4°C to 21°C). Clear skies and comfortable hiking weather.

Things to Do:

Hiking in the Chisos Mountains, including the Lost Mine Trail and Window Trail.
Exploring the Santa Elena Canyon along the Rio Grande.
Stargazing in one of the darkest skies in the U.S.

Where to Stay:

Chisos Mountain Lodge (only in-park lodging).
Marathon and Terlingua have a range of hotels and motels.
Camping at Chisos Basin or Rio Grande Village.

8. Bryce Canyon National Park, Utah

Weather: Cold, with temperatures ranging from 10°F to 40°F (-12°C to 4°C). Snow is common, creating a beautiful contrast with the red rock hoodoos.

Things to Do:

Snowshoeing along the Rim Trail.
Stargazing during clear winter nights.
Cross-country skiing on the park’s groomed trails.

Where to Stay:

The Lodge at Bryce Canyon (open year-round).
Ruby’s Inn (just outside the park).
Camping at North Campground (limited sites in winter).

These parks offer a range of experiences from winter sports to wildlife viewing, making them ideal destinations for a February getaway.

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