10 U.S National Parks to Visit in January
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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 January
Traveling to the following national parks in the month of January offers a unique set of opportunities. These include:
Serene Wilderness: January is typically one of the quietest months at national parks. You’ll experience the tranquility of nature with fewer crowds, allowing for a more peaceful and contemplative visit.
Winter Beauty: Many national parks get to showcase their most enchanting winter landscapes in January. Snow-covered mountains, frozen lakes and icy waterfalls creating stunning, photogenic scenes.
Wildlife Viewing: Winter can be an excellent time for wildlife enthusiasts. Animals may be more visible against the white backdrop, and you might spot species that are only active in the colder months.
Unique Photography: Winter’s soft lighting and reflections on snow and ice make for excellent photography opportunities. Capture the park’s beauty in a way that’s different from other seasons.
Spectacular Night Skies: Clear, cold nights in January provide exceptional stargazing. Some parks are designated as Dark Sky Parks, offering incredible views of the night sky.
Budget-Friendly Travel: Off-season travel often means lower accommodation and tour prices, helping you save money on your trip.
Mild Temperatures in Some Areas: While many parks are snowy and cold in January, some, particularly those in southern regions, offer milder winter weather, making it possible to explore without dealing with extreme cold.
1. Yellowstone National Park
Location: Wyoming
Why Visit: Witness the iconic Old Faithful geyser against a snowy backdrop.
Weather: Average high of 27°F (-3°C), low of 2°F (-17°C).
Sunrise/Sunset: 7:48 AM / 5:13 PM
Crowd Levels: Low, providing a serene experience.
Things to See and Do: Explore geothermal wonders, spot wolves in Lamar Valley.
Recommended Duration: 3-4 days for a comprehensive experience.
2. Grand Canyon National Park
Location: Arizona
Why Visit: Enjoy cooler temperatures and stunning winter vistas of the canyon. You won’t be able to access the North Rim, but the South Rim is usually accessible.
Weather: Average high of 46°F (8°C), low of 20°F (-6°C).
Sunrise/Sunset: 7:38 AM / 5:45 PM
Crowd Levels: Light, offering a peaceful Grand Canyon experience.
Things to See and Do: Hike the South Rim, catch sunrise at Mather Point.
Recommended Duration: 2-3 days for a relaxed visit.
3. Acadia National Park
Location: Maine
Why Visit: Embrace a winter wonderland with snow-covered landscapes.
Weather: Average high of 31°F (-1°C), low of 16°F (-9°C).
Sunrise/Sunset: 7:00 AM / 4:33 PM
Crowd Levels: Minimal, providing a tranquil escape.
Things to See and Do: Snowshoe on Jordan Pond Path, photograph icy landscapes.
Recommended Duration: 2-3 days for a serene winter retreat.
4. Rocky Mountain National Park
Location: Colorado
Why Visit: Experience snowy peaks and frozen lakes in a picturesque setting.
Weather: Average high of 28°F (-2°C), low of 3°F (-16°C).
Sunrise/Sunset: 7:16 AM / 5:08 PM
Crowd Levels: Low, allowing for peaceful exploration.
Things to See and Do: Snowshoe to Dream Lake, take in the views from Trail Ridge Road.
Recommended Duration: 3-4 days for a complete winter adventure.
5. Everglades National Park
Location: Florida
Why Visit: Escape the winter chill with the subtropical warmth of the Everglades.
Weather: Average high of 76°F (24°C), low of 55°F (13°C).
Sunrise/Sunset: 7:05 AM / 5:51 PM
Crowd Levels: Moderate, with comfortable temperatures.
Things to See and Do: Birdwatching in Corkscrew Swamp, airboat tours.
Recommended Duration: 2-3 days for a diverse Everglades experience.
6. Zion National Park
Location: Southern Utah
Why Visit: Enjoy mild temperatures and stunning winter landscapes.
Weather: Average high of 50°F (10°C), low of 28°F (-2°C).
Sunrise/Sunset: 7:34 AM / 5:29 PM
Crowd Levels: Light, offering solitude in the red rock canyons.
Things to See and Do: Hike The Narrows, marvel at the red cliffs.
Recommended Duration: 3-4 days for a well-paced exploration.
7. Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Location: Tennessee and North Carolina
Why Visit: Experience frost-covered landscapes and misty mountain views.
Weather: Average high of 49°F (9°C), low of 27°F (-3°C).
Sunrise/Sunset: 7:41 AM / 5:56 PM
Crowd Levels: Low, allowing for peaceful hikes and drives.
Things to See and Do: Cades Cove Loop, Clingmans Dome.
Recommended Duration: 2-3 days for a relaxed mountain retreat.
8. Olympic National Park
Location: Washington
Why Visit: Encounter snowy mountains, rainforests, and rugged coastlines.
Weather: Average high of 44°F (7°C), low of 30°F (-1°C).
Sunrise/Sunset: 7:55 AM / 4:50 PM
Crowd Levels: Low, providing solitude in diverse landscapes.
Things to See and Do: Hurricane Ridge, Hoh Rainforest.
Recommended Duration: 4-5 days for a comprehensive Olympic adventure.
9. Arches National Park
Location: Utah
Why Visit: Discover red rock formations against a backdrop of snow.
Weather: Average high of 38°F (3°C), low of 16°F (-9°C).
Sunrise/Sunset: 7:28 AM / 5:22 PM
Crowd Levels: Light, offering a peaceful winter desert experience.
Things to See and Do: Delicate Arch, Balanced Rock.
Recommended Duration: 2-3 days for exploring the unique rock formations.
10. Joshua Tree National Park
Location: California
Why Visit: Enjoy mild desert temperatures and clear skies.
Weather: Average high of 63°F (17°C), low of 39°F (4°C).
Sunrise/Sunset: 6:52 AM / 5:17 PM
Crowd Levels: Moderate, with comfortable temperatures for outdoor activities.
Things to See and Do: Stargazing, hike to Ryan Mountain.
Recommended Duration: 2-3 days for a relaxed desert getaway.
In conclusion, January offers a diverse range of national park experiences, from snowy landscapes to mild desert temperatures.
Whether you're a fan of winter adventures or prefer a warmer escape, these national parks provide the perfect setting for a memorable January getaway.
So, grab your jacket and explore the wonders that the U.S. national parks have to offer this winter!
