February Scenic Drives: 5 Roads with Unforgettable Winter Views
Winter in the national parks has a quiet magic, and you don't always need snowshoes or hiking boots to experience it. Sometimes, the best seat in the house is your own car. A scenic drive in February is a chance to cover a lot of ground, witness stunning, snow-dusted landscapes, and find moments of solitude, all from the warmth and comfort of your vehicle.
We've picked five scenic drives that are especially captivating in the winter, offering a front-row seat to the season's unique beauty.
1. Rim Drive, Crater Lake National Park, Oregon
Why it's great in February: While the full 33-mile Rim Drive is closed in winter, a significant portion remains open and plowed, offering unparalleled views of the deepest lake in the United States. The stark contrast of the brilliant white snow against the impossibly blue water is a sight you'll never forget. The snow-covered trees and quiet stillness create a truly peaceful and majestic atmosphere.
What to See: Drive to the main viewing area at Rim Village and gaze out at Wizard Island, the volcanic cone rising from the lake. The views are vast and breathtaking. Watch for the way the light changes on the snow and the surface of the water throughout the day.
Pro Tip: The road is only open to Rim Village. Check the park's website for current road conditions and closures before you go. The drive up can be snowy, so a 4-wheel drive vehicle is highly recommended. Don't forget your sunglasses—the sun reflecting off the snow can be intense!
2. Scenic Drive, Zion National Park, Utah
Why it's great in February: For much of the year, the iconic Zion Canyon Scenic Drive is closed to private vehicles. But in the quiet winter months, you can often drive it yourself. This is your chance to experience the towering sandstone cliffs and the Virgin River at your own pace, without the crowds or the shuttle bus.
What to See: The drive follows the Virgin River, with famous landmarks at every turn. Look for the Court of the Patriarchs, the Great White Throne, and the Temple of Sinawava at the end of the road. A light dusting of snow on the red rocks is a photographer's dream.
Pro Tip: The road can occasionally close to private vehicles on busy holiday weekends, so always check the park's website first. Take advantage of the numerous pullouts to get out, take photos, and even take short walks along the river.
3. Ross Maxwell Scenic Drive, Big Bend National Park, Texas
Why it's great in February: With its mild daytime temperatures, February is the perfect time to explore the stunning landscapes of Big Bend. The Ross Maxwell Scenic Drive is a 30-mile journey through the heart of the park, showcasing the dramatic beauty of the Chisos Mountains and the Chihuahuan Desert.
What to See: The drive offers numerous overlooks with expansive views. Stop at the Sotol Vista Overlook for a panoramic vista of the western side of the park. The drive ends at the spectacular Santa Elena Canyon, where the Rio Grande has carved a 1,500-foot-deep gorge through the limestone cliffs.
Pro Tip: The light is best in the late afternoon, as the setting sun illuminates the cliffs of Santa Elena Canyon. Allow at least half a day to fully enjoy the drive, the overlooks, and a short hike into the canyon itself.
4. Cactus Forest Loop Drive, Saguaro National Park, Arizona
Why it's great in February: The low winter sun casts a warm, golden light on the desert, making the iconic saguaro cacti glow. The Cactus Forest Loop Drive in the park's Rincon Mountain District (East) is a paved, one-way road that winds through a dense forest of these desert giants.
What to See: The drive offers an immersive experience in the Sonoran Desert. You'll see thousands of saguaros, along with other desert plants like cholla and prickly pear cactus. The surrounding Rincon Mountains provide a beautiful backdrop, often tinged with purple in the winter light.
Pro Tip: The best light for photography is during the "golden hour"—the first hour after sunrise and the last hour before sunset. Pull over at one of the many overlooks to watch the colors of the desert change as the sun gets low in the sky.
5. Ocean Drive, Acadia National Park, Maine
Why it's great in February: While much of the Park Loop Road is closed, a beautiful section of Ocean Drive remains open, offering access to the rugged, dramatic coastline of Acadia. The winter waves, the crisp sea air, and the lack of crowds make for a powerful and invigorating experience.
What to See: The drive hugs the coastline, with classic Maine views of rocky shores and crashing surf. Stop at Sand Beach and Thunder Hole. Even if the famous spray of Thunder Hole is quiet, the views are still spectacular. Look for sea ducks and other winter birds in the water.
Pro Tip: The road is plowed, but can be icy. Drive slowly and carefully. Dress warmly and get out of the car to smell the salt air and hear the sound of the waves. It's a different, more raw side of Acadia that many visitors never get to see.
Final Thoughts
A scenic drive is more than just a way to get from one place to another. It's an experience in itself. It's a chance to slow down, to look closely, and to appreciate the incredible diversity and beauty of our national parks. So grab your America the Beautiful Pass, fill up the tank, and hit the road.
