Best national parks to visit in the winter, according to Tripadvisor

Best national parks to visit in the winter, according to Tripadvisor

(FOX 5/KUSI) — Winter may be the perfect time to visit some of America’s most iconic national parks, according to Tripadvisor.

The travel guide site highlighted seven particular national parks that are especially spectacular in winter, offering dramatic scenery, unique activities and far fewer crowds compared to other seasons.

For those considering swapping sweaty summer trails for snowy vistas, these national parks are perfect for adventurous travelers this season:

Grand Teton National Park (Wyoming)

Winter transforms this iconic park into a snowy playground. According to Tripadvisor, visitors can enjoy cross-country skiing, snowshoeing and guided ranger tours that explore winter ecology and wildlife sightings, including moose and bison against snowy peaks.

Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming, USA. (Photo: Getty Images)

Yosemite National Park (California)

While Yosemite is famous in summer, winter delivers its own magic with skiing and snowboarding at Badger Pass, which Tripadvisor says is one of the few lifts located inside a national park. There’s also tubing, ice skating and snowshoe hikes. The quieter season also means serene views of popular landmarks like El Capitan and Half Dome surrounded by a winter blanket.

Yosemite National Park in winter. (Adobe Stock Photo)

Acadia National Park (Maine)

On the Atlantic coast, snowy scenic drives, ice fishing and skating, as well as cross-country skiing awaits at this national park. Tripadvisor says winter visitors can even snowmobile or climb frozen waterfalls. Pro tip: Sunrise from Cadillac Mountain — the highest peak on the U.S. Atlantic coast— is said to be breathtaking in the winter.

Snow covered carriage trail in winter at Acadia National Park. (Adobe Stock Photo)

Yellowstone National Park (Wyoming, Montana, Idaho)

Winter offers a chance to see the iconic Old Faithful spring create what Tripadvisor referred to “geyser rain.” This happens when hot water sprays in the colder months, creating what looks like tiny crystals in the air. Travelers will also likely see wildlife, such as wolves and bison, standing out in the snow. Guided snowshoe expeditions are great for exploring this national park in the winter months.

A wolf is shown in Yellowstone National Park, Wyo., in this file photo provided by the National Park Service, Nov. 7, 2017.

Rocky Mountain National Park (Colorado)

Majestic snow-covered landscapes make this park a winter favorite for snowshoeing, ranger-led walks and even ice climbing. Family-friendly fun like ice skating and sledding is also available nearby in Estes Park, Tripadvisor noted. Visitors may even spot an elk strolling along the Colorado River.

Winter hiker in a snowy Rocky Mountain National Park, Colo. (Adobe Stock Photo)

Grand Canyon National Park (Arizona)

The South Rim stays open through winter offering dramatically quieter trails and snow-dusted canyon visits. Tripadvisor says the national park’s clear winter skies offer “superior visibility,” making to easy to see the Milky Way after dark. The site also noted that accommodations that are typically pricey during warmer months tend to drop in the winter, making for an added bonus.

Girl in Grand Canyon National Park during winter. (Adobe Stock Photo)

Bryce Canyon National Park (Utah)

Here, the national park’s hoodoos — towering rock formations — take on even more otherworldly looks when they are dusted and frosted with winter snow, Tripadvisor explained. Visitor can snowshoe among the spires, join ranger-led hikes and enjoy some of the darkest night skies in the country for stargazing.

Winter in Bryce Canyon National Park. (Adobe Stock Photo)

Whether you’re chasing snowy landscaopes or peaceful solitude, the national park destinations offer a special side of America’s natural treasures in the winter.

Pro tip: For safety, always check seasonal closures and weather conditions before planning a winter trip to any national park.

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