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About This Series

This post is part of a planned series of twelve articles about which National Parks are the best to visit in a particular month. Some parks will appear multiple times throughout the series while some may receive only one.

Throughout series, we’ll cover topics such as weather, crowd levels, and what makes each park special. It will be based on my own experiences in addition to extensive research.

Best National Parks in February

Traveling to the following national parks in the month of February presents a distinctive array of advantages. These include:

Tranquil Wilderness: February is generally one of the most peaceful months at national parks. Embrace the serenity of nature with reduced crowds, providing an opportunity for a more serene and contemplative visit.

Winter Wonder: Numerous national parks unveil their captivating winter scenery in February. From snow-draped mountains to frozen lakes and icy waterfalls, the month showcases picturesque and enchanting landscapes.

Wildlife Observation: February can be an ideal time for wildlife enthusiasts. Animals may be more visible against the snowy backdrop, offering a chance to spot species that are active specifically during the colder months.

Distinctive Photography: The soft lighting and reflections on snow and ice during winter create excellent opportunities for photography. Capture the park's allure in a way that differs from other seasons.

Awe-Inspiring Night Skies: Clear, chilly nights in February provide extraordinary stargazing opportunities. Some parks are recognized as Dark Sky Parks, providing breathtaking views of the night sky.

Cost-Effective Travel: Traveling during the off-season often translates to lower accommodation and tour costs, enabling you to save money on your expedition.

Mild Temperatures: While many parks experience snowy and cold conditions in February, some, especially those in southern regions, offer milder winter weather. This allows for exploration without encountering extreme cold temperatures.

1. Death Valley National Park

• Location: California

• Reason to Visit: Surprising Winter Bloom

• Weather: Mild days (60°F-70°F), chilly nights (30°F-40°F)

• Sunrise/Sunset: 6:30 am / 5:30 pm

• Crowd Levels: Low

• Best Things to See and Do: Witness the rare wildflower bloom, explore Badwater Basin, stargaze at Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes, and hike through Artist's Palette.

• Recommended Duration: I recommend three days, but you could get away with two. One if you just want to see the main highlights.

In February, Death Valley National Park sheds its scorching summer reputation and transforms into a floral wonderland. Wildflowers blanket the desert floor, turning it into a vibrant tapestry.

The mild temperatures make outdoor activities enjoyable, and the low crowd levels ensure a peaceful experience.

Don't miss the chance to capture the rare bloom and immerse yourself in the surreal landscapes of this unique national park.

2. Yosemite National Park

• Location: California

• Reason to Visit: Majestic Winter Waterfalls

• Weather: Cool days (40°F-50°F), cold nights (20°F-30°F)

• Sunrise/Sunset: 6:45 am / 5:15 pm

• Crowd Levels: Moderate

• Best Things to See and Do: Admire the frozen Yosemite Falls, explore the snow-covered Mariposa Grove, capture the beauty of Horsetail Fall's natural firefall phenomenon, and cross-country ski in Badger Pass.

• Recommended Duration: The more, the better at this park. At minimum, I would designate two to three days.

Yosemite National Park in February is a paradise for winter sports enthusiasts and waterfall admirers. The iconic Yosemite Falls often freezes into a spectacular ice sculpture, creating a unique spectacle.

The moderate crowd levels allow for a more intimate experience with nature, while the snow-covered landscapes add an enchanting touch to the park's grandeur.

3. Great Sand Dunes National Park

• Location: Colorado

• Reason to Visit: Tranquil Winter Dunes

• Weather: Cold days (20°F-40°F), freezing nights (0°F-20°F)

• Sunrise/Sunset: 6:55 am / 5:45 pm

• Crowd Levels: Low

• Best Things to See and Do: Sled down the dunes, hike to High Dune for panoramic views, explore the Medano Creek, and stargaze in the clear night skies.

• Recommended Duration: Two days should suffice, but you could easily get away with just one.

In February, the Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve transform into a serene winter landscape.

The snow-dusted dunes create a tranquil atmosphere, inviting visitors to enjoy unique activities like sledding down the sandy slopes.

With fewer crowds, you can relish the peaceful beauty of the dunes and experience the park in a more secluded setting.

4. Hot Springs National Park

• Location: Arkansas

• Reason to Visit: Soothing Thermal Baths

• Weather: Mild days (50°F-60°F), cool nights (30°F-40°F)

• Sunrise/Sunset: 6:45 am / 5:30 pm

• Crowd Levels: Low

• Best Things to See and Do: Relax in the thermal baths, hike the scenic trails, explore Bathhouse Row, and take a scenic drive along the Hot Springs Mountain Drive.

• Recommended Duration: One to two days should suffice.

Escape the winter chill and rejuvenate in the soothing thermal waters of Hot Springs National Park.

With mild temperatures, February provides the perfect conditions for a relaxing retreat.

The low crowd levels allow for a peaceful experience, whether you're soaking in the thermal baths or exploring the park's scenic trails and historic landmarks.

5. Capitol Reef National Park

• Location: Utah

• Reason to Visit: Striking Winter Scenery

• Weather: Cold days (30°F-40°F), chilly nights (10°F-20°F)

• Sunrise/Sunset: 7:15 am / 6:00 pm

• Crowd Levels: Low

• Best Things to See and Do: Explore the Waterpocket Fold, hike the Grand Wash, marvel at the Cathedral Valley, and stargaze in the clear night skies.

• Recommended Duration: I recommend two days.

February transforms Capitol Reef National Park into a picturesque winter wonderland.

The snow-covered landscapes enhance the park's natural beauty, creating a striking contrast against the red rock formations.

The low crowd levels allow for a more intimate exploration of the park's unique geological features and captivating scenery.

6. Isle Royale National Park

• Location: Michigan

• Reason to Visit: Tranquil Winter Wilderness

• Weather: Cold days (20°F-30°F), frigid nights (0°F-10°F)

• Sunrise/Sunset: 7:30 am / 6:15 pm

• Crowd Levels: Low

• Best Things to See and Do: Experience the solitude of winter hiking, go ice fishing on frozen lakes, explore historic lighthouses, and enjoy wildlife watching.

• Recommended Duration: I would make it a full three to four-day vacation at this beautiful spot.

Isle Royale National Park offers a unique winter wilderness experience in February.

The frozen lakes and snow-covered trails create a serene environment for those seeking solitude and tranquility.

With low crowd levels, visitors can immerse themselves in the park's untouched beauty, from winter hiking to ice fishing and wildlife watching.

7. Voyageurs National Park

• Location: Minnesota

• Reason to Visit: Frozen Waterways and Northern Lights

• Weather: Cold days (10°F-20°F), icy nights (-10°F-0°F)

• Sunrise/Sunset: 7:15 am / 5:45 pm

• Crowd Levels: Low

• Best Things to See and Do: Explore the frozen Kabetogama Lake, go snowshoeing or cross-country skiing, experience the mesmerizing Northern Lights, and take a ranger-led snowshoe hike.

• Recommended Duration: Two to three days.

In February, Voyageurs National Park transforms into a winter wonderland with frozen lakes and opportunities to witness the magical Northern Lights.

The park offers a range of winter activities, from snowshoeing to cross-country skiing, allowing visitors to embrace the serene beauty of the icy landscapes.

With low crowd levels, you can enjoy the park's unique winter charm at your own pace.

8. Cuyahoga Valley National Park

• Location: Ohio

• Reason to Visit: Scenic Winter Landscapes

• Weather: Cold days (20°F-30°F), chilly nights (0°F-10°F)

• Sunrise/Sunset: 7:15 am / 6:00 pm

• Crowd Levels: Low

• Best Things to See and Do: Hike the Ledges Trail for winter views, explore Brandywine Falls, attend a winter wildlife hike, and experience the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad.

• Recommended Duration: Two days.

Escape the winter blues with the scenic landscapes of Cuyahoga Valley National Park. The snow-covered trails and frozen waterfalls create a picturesque setting for outdoor activities.

With low crowd levels, visitors can enjoy the tranquility of the park, whether hiking through snow-dusted trails or experiencing the beauty of Brandywine Falls.