Everyone knows about the winter wonderlands of Yellowstone and Yosemite. But for the true explorer, the real magic often lies just off the beaten path, in places that don't make every top-ten list. These are the parks where you can find true solitude, where the silence is broken only by the crunch of your boots in the snow, and where the experience feels personal and profound.
If you're looking to escape the crowds and discover something new, these five underrated parks are absolute gems in the winter. Here's why they deserve a spot on your list.
✨ 5 Hidden Gems for a Winter Adventure
1. Great Basin National Park, Nevada
Why it's great in winter: Solitude. You'll have this stunning park almost entirely to yourself. It's also a designated International Dark Sky Park, and the crisp, clear nights of winter offer some of the most spectacular stargazing in the country.
What to See: While the high-elevation scenic drive is closed, you can still explore the Lehman Caves on a guided tour (a great way to warm up!). The lower-elevation trails are perfect for snowshoeing, and the views of the snow-covered Snake Range are magnificent.
Pro Tip: The nearby town of Baker is very small and services are limited in winter. Plan ahead, bring your own food and water, and make sure your car has a full tank of gas.
2. Theodore Roosevelt National Park, North Dakota
Why it's great in winter: The rugged badlands landscape, dusted with snow, is starkly beautiful. The park's famous bison herds, with their thick winter coats, are often easier to spot against the white backdrop.
What to See: Drive the scenic loop in the South Unit (check for closures) to spot bison, wild horses, and pronghorn. The short, accessible trails near the visitor center offer a great taste of the winter landscape.
Pro Tip: This is North Dakota in winter—be prepared for extreme cold. Dress in serious layers and never venture far from your vehicle without being fully prepared for the conditions.
3. Capitol Reef National Park, Utah
Why it's great in winter: Capitol Reef is often overshadowed by its more famous Utah siblings, Zion and Arches. In winter, you can experience its stunning geology without the crowds. A dusting of snow on the red rock of the Waterpocket Fold is a sight to behold.
What to See: The park's main scenic drive is typically open year-round. Don't miss the historic Gifford Homestead, the petroglyph panels, and the panoramic views from the Goosenecks Overlook.
Pro Tip: The orchards of Fruita in the snow are surprisingly beautiful. It's a quiet, peaceful landscape that feels a world away from the busy summer season.
4. Congaree National Park, South Carolina
Why it's great in winter: Winter is arguably the best time to visit Congaree. The oppressive humidity and mosquitoes of summer are gone, making it a pleasure to walk the trails. The lack of leaves on many trees also opens up the views, allowing you to better appreciate the sheer scale of the largest old-growth bottomland hardwood forest in the southeastern United States.
What to See: Walk the 2.4-mile Boardwalk Loop Trail to immerse yourself in the forest of giant cypress and tupelo trees. The reflections in the water on a calm day are stunning.
Pro Tip: Check the water levels before you go. The boardwalk is elevated, but some of the lower trails can flood after heavy rains.
5. Lassen Volcanic National Park, California
Why it's great in winter: Think of it as a mini, crowd-free Yellowstone. The park receives a massive amount of snow, but the hydrothermal areas, like Sulphur Works, are still active, creating a surreal landscape of steaming vents and bubbling mud pots in the snow.
What to See: The main park road is closed, but the area around the Manzanita Lake entrance and the Southwest entrance are open for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. The Sulphur Works area is just a short walk from the Southwest entrance parking lot.
Pro Tip: This is a true winter wonderland for the prepared adventurer. Rent snowshoes and explore the trails around Manzanita Lake for beautiful views of Lassen Peak.
Final Thoughts
Sometimes the most memorable adventures happen where you least expect them. This winter, skip the long lines and discover the quiet magic of a park that's all your own. Grab your America the Beautiful Pass and take the road less traveled.
What's your favorite underrated park? Let us know!
