Best National Parks to Visit in December

Yellowstone National Park

Do you dream of walking in a winter wonderland? Yellowstone could be the park for you! Deep snowbanks create the perfect landscape for snowshoeing, cross-country skiing and riding a snowcoach to scenic wonders like the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone. Warm up with a look at Yellowstone’s geothermal features, like Old Faithful, and keep an eye out for the bison, bald eagles and other wildlife that call Yellowstone home.  

Zion National Park

The weather in Utah in winter can vary wildly, but temperatures in Zion National Park can be slightly milder than parks like Arches or Bryce, making it a good spot to explore in the winter. Snow usually melts quickly in the sun, and as long as you check for icy conditions beforehand, you can enjoy miles of hiking trails and breathtaking natural vistas. Winter tends to be rainy in Zion, so don’t forget your raincoat!

Death Valley National Park

Want to warm things up? Death Valley National Park is a great place to start — this park is known for its extreme heat in the summer, but by winter, its temperatures can drop dramatically. December days are much more comfortable for hiking and learning about natural wonders, including Badwater Basin, the lowest point in North America at 282 feet below sea level.

Channel Islands National Park

Channel Islands National Park stands out during this season thanks to its stunning winter sunsets and opportunities to spot gray whales. Northern elephant seals and harbor seals also begin giving birth to their pups during the winter months, making this the perfect place and time to spot unique wildlife. Admire the islands on foot through hikes and by boat as you learn about their Native American history, rare plants and more.

Everglades National Park

Florida is full of national parks that are great settings for winter learning, but an especially notable one is the Everglades. You can experience the beauty of this national park up close through kayaking its many waterways with naturalists or by hiking or biking its trails. Wildlife enthusiasts will love the opportunities the Everglades offer to see alligators and birds — did you know that more than 360 species of birds have been sighted in this national park?

Whether you’re looking for warm national parks in winter or inspiration for the next park to check off your list, these five parks are amazing places to learn in December! Head to our website to see Road Scholar’s complete collection of national park learning adventures.