Across the United States, national parks offer countless ways to cool off and explore the outdoors. From kayaking through flooded forests and rafting down powerful rivers to snorkeling vibrant reefs and swimming in alpine lakes, there’s no shortage of ways to enjoy the water. Some parks are even surrounded by water and can only be reached by boat or plane.

As an Amazon affiliate, when you click on some of the links on this page and make a purchase, we may earn a small commission, at no cost to you! By using our affiliate links, you’ll find our favorite picks and support us at the same time. And we really appreciate your support!

If you’re looking for the best national parks for summer water activities, these destinations offer unforgettable adventures both on and in the water.

Kayaking in National Parks

Kayaking is one of the best ways to explore national parks from a completely different perspective. Quiet waterways often reveal wildlife, hidden landscapes, and scenery you can’t experience from the trails.

Kayaking at Congaree National Park

Often overlooked by travelers, Congaree National Park is a dream destination for paddlers. The park protects the largest intact old-growth bottomland hardwood forest in the southeastern United States.

The highlight for kayakers is the Congaree River Blue Trail, a 50-mile paddling route winding through the park’s floodplain. As you glide through the calm waters, you’ll paddle beneath towering trees and through a quiet wilderness filled with wildlife.

Keep an eye out for River otters, White-tailed deer and turtles. You might even see an alligator! Be sure to have your binoculars around your neck because you don’t want to miss anything. We like these binoculars that also take pictures so we can have memories of amazing sights.

It’s one of the most peaceful paddling experiences in the national park system.

Kayaking the Rio Grande at Big Bend National Park

Kayaking might not be the first activity that comes to mind in the Texas desert, but Big Bend offers one of the most spectacular paddling routes in the country.

The Rio Grande River slices through massive canyons with cliffs rising up to 1,500 feet. Paddlers drift between dramatic desert landscapes while floating through narrow canyon corridors. While much of the river offers gentle floating sections, some areas include Class I–III rapids, giving the trip a little extra excitement.

The contrast between towering canyon walls, desert scenery, and flowing water makes this an unforgettable kayaking experience.

Other National Parks Great for Kayaking: Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve, Everglades National Park, Channel Islands National Park, Acadia National Park, Grand Teton National Park and Crater Lake National Park

Pro Tip: Many national parks require permits for boats or kayaks. Always check the park’s official guidelines before launching.

Whitewater Rafting in National Parks

If you’re craving adrenaline, whitewater rafting delivers an unforgettable way to experience the power of nature.

Rafting the Colorado River in Grand Canyon National Park

Rafting the Colorado River through the Grand Canyon is often considered the ultimate national park rafting adventure.

Trips travel 280 miles from Lees Ferry to Pearce Ferry, carrying rafters through one of the most spectacular geological landscapes on Earth. Along the way, you’ll encounter legendary rapids, ancient rock layers, and hidden side canyons.

Beyond the thrilling whitewater, rafting the Grand Canyon also offers Historic sites. remote hiking trails, incredible canyon viewpoints and Dark night skies far from civilization.

It’s truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Whitewater at New River Gorge National Park and Preserve

The New River Gorge has been a premier rafting destination on the East Coast since the 1970s. The park protects a 53-mile stretch of the New River, one of the oldest rivers in North America. Guided rafting trips typically run from April through November.

The river offers options for all skill levels. Upper New River is family friendly with Class III rapids. Lower Gorge offers powerful Class VI-V rapids.

The dramatic gorge scenery makes the ride even more unforgettable.

Other National Parks for Whitewater Rafting: Glacier National Park, Gates of the Arctic National Park and Preserve, Yosemite National Park, Canyonlands National Park and North Cascades National Park

River Tubing in National Parks

Sometimes the best summer adventure is simply floating down a peaceful river.

River Tubing at Shenandoah National Park

River tubing in Shenandoah is one of the most relaxing ways to spend a summer afternoon. Floating slowly along gentle rivers surrounded by lush Appalachian scenery creates a peaceful experience perfect for families or anyone wanting a laid-back day outdoors.

Tube rentals and guided trips are available nearby, making it an easy activity even for beginners.

Snorkeling in National Parks

Not all national parks are landlocked. Some protect incredible underwater ecosystems that rival the best tropical destinations.

Snorkeling at Dry Tortugas National Park

Located about 70 miles west of Key West, Dry Tortugas National Park is famous for its crystal-clear waters and colorful coral reefs.

Snorkelers can explore shallow reefs filled with tropical fish, coral formations, and marine life. Visibility is often excellent, making it ideal for both beginners and experienced snorkelers.

Don’t forget an underwater camera because you’ll want to capture the vibrant marine life here. We like this AKASO Brave 4. It’s like a Go Pro but a little less pricey. I personally think the pictures and videos are just as good as a Go Pro.

Snorkeling at Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park

The waters around Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park offer a fascinating underwater environment shaped by volcanic activity.

These nutrient-rich waters support diverse marine life, including tropical fish and coral reefs. The clear Pacific water also provides excellent snorkeling visibility.

Other National Parks for Snorkeling: Channel Islands National Park, Isle Royale National Park and Virgin Islands National Park

Swimming in National Parks

Many national parks offer beautiful lakes and rivers perfect for cooling off during the summer.

Swimming at Indiana Dunes National Park

Located along the shores of Lake Michigan, Indiana Dunes National Park features miles of sandy beaches and refreshing freshwater swimming.

Several beaches provide restrooms and water access, while West Beach offers lifeguards and showers during the summer season.

Pro Tip: Arrive early on weekends to secure parking or visit during the week for a quieter beach day.

Swimming at Kings Canyon National Park

Kings Canyon may not get the same attention as nearby Yosemite, but its dramatic landscapes rival any park in the country. You’ll find  waterholes and hidden pools here, but some are not good for swimming, so be sure to check before you jump in.

One popular swimming spot is Muir Rock, a massive granite boulder overlooking the Kings River. Visitors often jump from the rock into the deep emerald pool below. The jump is only about 15 feet, but the water is cold, so be prepared for a refreshing shock.

Other National Parks for Swimming: Yellowstone National Park, Rocky Mountain National Park, North Cascades National Park, Glacier National Park and Grand Teton National Park

Fly Fishing in National Parks

Anglers will find some of the best fly fishing in the country within national parks.

Fly Fishing at Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone offers countless fishing opportunities in rivers, lakes, and streams throughout the park.

Popular river spots include Madison River, Yellowstone River, Firehole River and Lamar River.

Many outfitters offer guided trips, lessons, and even horseback-supported fishing adventures.

Fly Fishing at Lassen Volcanic National Park

Lassen Volcanic National Park is often overlooked, but it’s an excellent destination for backcountry fly fishing.

Manzanita Lake is known for healthy populations of rainbow and brown trout, and nearby streams also hold wild trout. It’s an ideal destination for anglers looking for scenic fishing without the crowds.

Other National Parks for Fly Fishing: Glacier National Park, Yosemite National Park, Shenandoah National Park, Great Smoky Mountains National Park and North Cascades National Park

Pro Tip: Fishing regulations vary by park, so always check the National Park Service website before casting your line. Many parks offer many types of fishing.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for summer adventures in America’s national parks, water activities offer some of the most exciting ways to experience these incredible landscapes.

Whether you’re kayaking through flooded forests, rafting powerful rivers, snorkeling tropical reefs, or simply floating down a peaceful river, national parks provide unforgettable ways to cool off and explore the outdoors.

With so many incredible destinations to choose from, you’re sure to find the perfect national park water adventure for your next summer trip. Use this list from the National Park Service to find your favorite activity and where to visit.

We love sharing tips and information we learn along the way to help you when you’re planning your next vacation. We hope to inspire you to find your adventures, have lots of fun and make many memoires.

The post Best National Parks in the USA for Summer Water Adventures appeared first on scenicroutetravelers.com.

Some parks absolutely shine in spring thanks to seasonal blooms and mild temperatures, while others are simply more enjoyable before summer turns them into furnaces. These 15 are the national parks that truly come alive this time of year.

As an Amazon affiliate, when you click on some of the links on this page and make a purchase, we may earn a small commission, at no cost to you! By using our affiliate links, you’ll find our favorite picks and support us at the same time. And we really appreciate your support!

Best East Coast National Parks to Visit in Spring

Spring on the East Coast means cooler temperatures, vibrant wildflowers, and wildlife becoming more active, perfect conditions for hiking, scenic drives, and photography.

New River Gorge National Park – West Virginia

One of America’s newest national parks, New River Gorge National Park is a fantastic spring destination. Whitewater rafters flock here for Class V rapids, but you don’t need adrenaline to enjoy this park.

Spring is ideal for hiking the well-maintained trails around the iconic New River Gorge Bridge. Be sure to visit Grandview, where sweeping views of the river winding through the Appalachian Mountains are nothing short of jaw-dropping. Train lovers will enjoy watching long freight trains snake through the gorge below, while waterfall fans should head south toward Sandstone Falls.

Shenandoah National Park – Virginia

Spring is arguably the best time to visit Shenandoah National Park. Red maples burst with color, wildflowers blanket the forest floor, and wildlife becomes increasingly active.

Drive Skyline Drive for panoramic views or explore the park’s extensive trail system. April and May are prime months for wildflower lovers, especially when trilliums bloom across the forest floor.

Pro Tip: When you’re driving along, you don’t want to miss capturing these great colors, so be sure your camera takes great videos. I’ve captured some things when videoing that I didn’t even notice. We use this PixPro camera from Kodak it takes both great pictures and videos.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park – Tennessee & North Carolina

The Great Smoky Mountains are legendary in spring and for good reason. This park is home to over 1,500 flowering plant species, earning it the nickname “Wildflower National Park.”

With more than 800 miles of hiking trails, including a stretch of the Appalachian Trail, spring is perfect for exploring without oppressive heat. Don’t miss Clingmans Dome for sweeping mountain views or take a scenic drive through Cades Cove, one of the best wildlife-viewing areas in the park.

Read Next: The Ultimate National Park Packing List

Everglades National Park – Florida

Spring marks the tail end of dry season in Everglades National Park, making it one of the most comfortable times to visit. Expect lower humidity, temperatures around 80°F, and incredible wildlife activity.

From mid-April to mid-May, alligator mating rituals take center stage where adult male alligators try to impress females with water slapping, tail lifting, and growling.   These rituals take place most often at Shark Valley. Spring is also ideal for biking, hiking, airboat tours, and guided kayak trips through mangrove tunnels.

Pro Tip: Even though the humidity is lower, it’s still humid so you’ll want to carry lip balm to protect your lips from cracking.

Best Midwest National Parks to Visit in Spring

Badlands National Park – South Dakota

Spring at Badlands National Park means cooler temperatures, fewer crowds, and wildlife returning to the prairie. Bison, prairie dogs, and bighorn sheep are commonly spotted this time of year.

The park’s pastel sunrises and fiery sunsets are unforgettable. One unique perk? The Badlands’ Open Hike Policy, which allows you to explore off trail throughout much of the park.

Big Bend National Park – Texas

Spring is prime time at Big Bend National Park, especially for birdwatchers. From late February through early May, migratory birds rest along the Rio Grande and in the Chisos Mountains.

This park offers endless adventure; hiking desert trails, scenic drives, or even floating the Rio Grande through dramatic canyons if you’re feeling bold.

Best Southwest National Parks to Visit in Spring

Spring is the sweet spot in the Southwest, with comfortable temperatures and desert landscapes bursting into bloom.

Carlsbad Caverns National Park – New Mexico

Skip summer crowds and explore Carlsbad Caverns National Park in spring. This underground wonder features over 100 caves, massive chambers, and breathtaking limestone formations.

Spring also signals the return of the park’s famous bats. In April and May, Mexican free-tailed bats emerge in massive spirals at dusk – an unforgettable natural spectacle.

Grand Canyon National Park – Arizona

Spring is one of the best times to visit the Grand Canyon, offering mild weather and fewer crowds before summer chaos sets in.

Enjoy jaw-dropping views from Mather Point and Yavapai Observation Station, hike along the rim, or explore by shuttle. If you’re planning to visit the North Rim, note that it’s tentatively expected to reopen on May 15, 2026, depending on if they can recover from the fire by then.

Zion National Park – Utah

Zion National Park is stunning year-round, but spring offers ideal hiking conditions before extreme summer heat arrives.Many popular hikes require permits, so plan ahead. Even non-hikers will love Zion’s scenic drives and shuttle-accessible viewpoints through the main canyon.

Even if you are not a hiker, there is still much to see in this park from your car or the Zion National Park shuttle. You can drive through the park year-round, but the main Zion canyon is closed to vehicles for most of the year. You will need to take the shuttle when the road is closed.

Capitol Reef National Park – Utah

Often overlooked, Capitol Reef National Park is a springtime standout. Wildflowers bloom across red rock landscapes, temperatures are mild, and trails are accessible for all skill levels.

Explore the Fruita Historic District, hike to Hickman Bridge, or take a scenic drive through the park for incredible views without the crowds.

Arches National Park – Utah

Spring is ideal for exploring Arches National Park, home to more than 2,000 natural stone arches.

The famous Delicate Arch Trail is a must-do, and spring temperatures make desert hiking far more enjoyable than in summer.

Great Sand Dunes National Park – Colorado

Spring is the best time to visit Great Sand Dunes National Park. Mild temperatures make sandboarding and sledding enjoyable, and by late May, Medano Creek forms from snowmelt- perfect for tubing and splashing.

Pro Tip: Even though the temperature isn’t as hot in the spring, it is still dry in the desert, so be sure to bring plenty of water with you. You definitely don’t want to get dehydrated. We like this one from Amazon. We’ve been trying to get away from plastics, and this is working well for us.

Best West Coast National Parks to Visit in Spring

Death Valley National Park – California & Nevada

Despite its name, Death Valley is most enjoyable in early spring when temperatures stay below 80°F.

Drive to iconic viewpoints like Dante’s View, Badwater Basin, and Artist’s Palette, and always pack plenty of water, this is still the desert.

Joshua Tree National Park -California

With cool mornings and warm afternoons, spring is the best time to visit Joshua Tree National Park.

Short hikes like Arch Rock, Barker Dam, and Cholla Cactus Garden are perfect this season. Sunrise and sunset are absolute musts here.

Learn more about this park: Guide to Exploring Joshua Tree National Park

Channel Islands National Park – California

Spring is prime time at Channel Islands National Park, a remote and often-overlooked gem off Southern California’s coast.

Accessible by boat, the islands offer hiking, kayaking, snorkeling, and excellent wildlife viewing in crystal-clear waters.

Final Thoughts: Why Spring Is the Best Time to Visit National Parks

Spring offers the perfect balance of weather, wildlife, and scenery across the U.S. national park system. From blooming deserts to roaring waterfalls and active wildlife, this season delivers unforgettable experiences – without the peak summer crowds.

If you’re planning a national parks trip, spring just might be the sweet spot. Consider getting an America the Beautiful Pass if you plan to visit more than one park this year. Also take a form of ID with you, a lot of parks are asking for IDs with your passes.

Learn more: Ultimate Guide to America the Beautiful Pass

We love sharing tips and information to help you plan your next adventure. We hopt to inspire you to find your adventures, have lots of fun and make many memories.

The post Best National Parks to Visit in Spring: Wildflowers, Wildlife & Perfect Weather appeared first on scenicroutetravelers.com.

If you’re dreaming of a snowy escape, these are the best national parks in winter for unforgettable outdoor activities.

As an Amazon affiliate, when you click on some of the links on this page and make a purchase, we may earn a small commission. This comes at no cost to you! By using our affiliate links, you get the inside scoop on our favorite items and support us at the same time. And we can’t thank you enough!

Yellowstone National Park – Geysers and Wildlife in Winter Wonderland

Yellowstone is famously packed in summer, but winter transforms it into a peaceful world of steaming geysers and frosted wildlife. The contrast of frigid air and scalding geothermal features makes Old Faithful, the Fountain Paint Pots, and the park’s hot springs even more dramatic. Take a guided day tour to Old Faithful to spot steam-frosted bison, glimpse the Fountain Paint Pots, and watch the famous geyser erupt with barely a soul in sight.

Ride a snowcoach or snowmobile through Yellowstone. When the deep snow closes Yellowstone’s roads to vehicles, the park transforms into a dreamscape best explored by snowmobile or snowcoach (a specialized vehicle with tracks or oversized low-pressure tires). Snowmobiles offer an active adventure, while snowcoaches deliver a relaxing, heated, guided ride.

Yosemite National Park- Skate beneath the Half Dome

Winter in Yosemite feels like stepping into a postcard. At Curry Village, you can ice skate with Half Dome glowing pink at sunset – one of the most iconic winter activities in any national park. After skating, warm up near the fire pits or grab a bite at Bar 1899 or the Pizza Deck.

When you’re ready for more adventure, hop the free shuttle to Badger Pass Ski Area, one of California’s oldest ski resorts, offering beginner-friendly downhill runs, snowboarding, a terrain park and a dedicated tubing hill.

Reservations for lodging at Yosemite are highly advised and space fills up fast, so be sure to plan well in advance.

Pro Tip: If you plan on visiting a lot of parks this year, think about getting an America the Beautiful Pass. It will save you money in the long run.

Read: Ultimate Guide to America the Beautiful Pass

Grand Teton National Park – Snowmobiling and Winter Safaris

Winter is a wonderful time to experience Grand Teton National Park. One of the best things to do is to drive around looking for wildlife. If you don’t want to drive, opt to go on a winter wilderness safari where you travel in a large snowcat. Winter recreation activities abound, as the park becomes a popular destination for cross-country skiers, snowshoers, and photographers who wish to capture the beauty of a Teton winter.

With many traditional roads in the Teton Range closed due to snow and ice, a snowmobile ride adventure through the Wyoming backcountry is the perfect way to behold the mountains come winter. Bundle up for a windswept snowmobile tour departing from Jackson Hole, which highlights scenic destinations in both Grand Teton and Yellowstone national parks.

Rocky Mountain National Park – Sleigh Rides and Snowshoe Trails

Rocky Mountain National Park is the best national park for winter camping. It also has amazing mountain scenery with snow capped peaks and snowy landscapes. Snowshoeing and cross-country skiing are favorites here especially at the Bear Lake area. Easier wildlife viewing in winter is a bonus! The quiet brings the animals to lower elevations.

You’ll hear those sleigh bells jingling as you set off on a scenic horse-drawn sleigh ride through the snowy terrain surrounding Rocky Mountain National Park. Snuggle up under a blanket as you check out the local wildlife, and a breathtaking sunset, on an evening ride that includes dinner in a beautiful mountain cabin. It’s a unique apres-ski activity that’s the perfect end to a day spent tackling the famous Colorado slopes.

Pro Tip: Bring this cute, insulated travel tumbler filled with your favorite hot chocolate on the sleigh ride. It also fits in your car’s cup holder and keeps your drink warm for up to 3 hours. Available on Amazon.

Bryce Canyon National Park – Hoodoos and the Winter Festival

Bryce Canyon’s iconic red-orange hoodoos look almost unreal with a layer of fresh snow. Winter reduces crowds dramatically, making the viewpoints even more spectacular.

 Every February for the last 40-plus years, Ruby’s Inn hosts the annual Bryce Canyon Winter Festival, three days of snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, archery (and ski archery), ice skating, and guided hikes along the canyon rim. Beyond sports, attendees can take workshops in astrophotography, leather-making, line dancing, and even nutrition.

Kings Canyon National Park- Celebrate the Nation’s Christmas Tree

Time slows in the sequoia groves that make up Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks, where arboreal giants have watched the seasons come and go for more than 2,000 years. You can enjoy cross-country skiing and snowshoeing or if you’re looking for something a little less strenuous, drive through the parks’ gorgeous landscape.

For more than a century, people have  gathered on the second Sunday in December in Kings Canyon National Park to honor one of the largest living trees in the world: General Grant. President Calvin Coolidge designated it the “Nation’s Christmas Tree” in 1926 and every year the trek offers ranger talks, caroling and a ceremonial wreath-laying beneath the tree.

Pro Tip: Don’t forget to pack lip balm and sunscreen for protection from the wind, sun and cold.

Glacier National Park – Quiet Trails and Ranger-Led Snowshoeing

Winter in Glacier brings deep stillness and fewer visitors, turning the park into one of the most peaceful national parks to visit in winter. While Going to the Sun Road is not fully open to motor vehicles in winter season, there are portions of this scenic roadway open all year round. The road to Lake McDonald Lodge is plowed throughout the winter, and it’s a beautiful scenic drive along the lake.

Winter weekends in Glacier National Park mean popular ranger-led snowshoe walks from late December through mid-March. The two-hour, beginner-friendly outings trace quiet trails near Apgar and Lake McDonald, putting the park’s vast stillness on full display.

Olympic National Park – Ski in a Rain Forest (Yes, Really)

Olympic National Park is famously diverse and that includes winter. It turns out that you can ski in a rain forest. One of the most surprising winter activities here is skiing at Hurricane Ridge, where 400 inches of snow fall annually. You can also snowboard, snowshoe and cross-country ski here.

On the coast, sink into a hot tub and watch mesmerizing and intense winter storms batter the shoreline. Once you are done playing in the snow head to the hot springs and warm up while enjoying the beautiful coast.  Clear days deliver jaw-dropping views of the Olympic Mountains and the Strait of Juan de Fuc.

Pro Tip: You’ll want to capture these amazing views, so don’t forget a camera. I like this Kodak PixPro when I travel. It’s a great size and has capability to take videos.

Mammoth Cave National Park – Underground Caroling

Winter slows things down at Mammoth Cave, making it an atmospheric time to explore the world’s longest-known cave system. As icicles decorate the Historic Entrance of Mammoth Cave and the occasional snowstorm blankets the hillsides, winter transforms the park into a new wonder all its own.

Every December, merry voices echo through the world’s longest-known cave system during Mammoth Cave National Park’s annual Cave Sing. The tradition dates back well over a century, when residents hosted a Christmas party in the cave, even hauling in a decorated 10-foot tree. Today, the free celebration includes several musical performances in the cave’s massive, acoustically rich rooms, as well as refreshments and a visit from Santa Claus himself.

Acadia National Park- Frozen ponds equal skating rinks

When winter’s deep freeze takes hold in Maine, smaller bodies of water across Acadia National Park transform into serene natural skating rinks in a winter playground. Local favorites like Jordan Pond and Eagle Lake have wide-open ice.

An average of five feet of snow falls on Acadia’s evergreen forests and rocky headlands over the course of a year, transforming the park’s scenic loop drive and winding carriage roads into a paradise for cross-country skiers and snowshoers.

Mount Rainier National Park – Winter Camping Heaven

Mount Rainier shines in winter, offering massive snowy vistas and frozen waterfalls perfect for photography. Winter camping is a favorite for visitors here,  but usually is not available until January and requires a permit.

 Other winter fun includes a slew of sports such as snowboarding, skiing, snowshoeing, snowmobiling, and sledding. Hike or snowshoe through the forest with views of Mount Rainier and bubbling mineral springs.

Denali National Park- Dog sledding and Northern Lights

Denali delivers a true Alaskan winter. Vast untouched landscapes, clear night skies, and deep silence set the tone for a cold-weather adventure. Dress warm and head out for a magical experience. If you’re lucky you’ll see the Northern Lights.

 Dog sledding is a quintessential Alaskan winter activity, and Denali is one of the best places to experience it. The park also offers opportunities for snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, riding snow mobiles and winter camping. Dress warm, really warm, and enjoy the solitude.

Pro tip: Take along night vision goggles not only for a better view of the Northern Lights but also for spotting wildlife. These googles by Hexeum are really nice. Check them out on Amazon.

 Cuyahoga Valley National Park – Train Ride to the “North Pole”

Cuyahoga Valley is a great place to visit during winter, snow or no snow. The hiking trails remain open year round. Some animals are active in the winter months, so be sure to bring your camera. Winter sports abound; you can enjoy Cross-country and downhill skiing, snowshoeing, snow tubing, and sledding.

The railroad in Cuyahoga Valley National Park operates through the winter, offering themed rides that make it a compelling journey this time of year. Best of all, visitors who hop aboard during the holiday season can enjoy a festive trip to the “North Pole,” complete with a visit from Santa that’s sure to delight younger guests. Travelers can board trains from either the Akron Northside Station or the Rockside Station. It’s one of the most charming winter experiences in any U.S. national park.

Voyageurs National Park – Drive Across the Frozen Lake

Voyageurs is a true winter wilderness with no shortage of cold,but also unimaginable beauty. The Northern Minnesota winters bring a deep freeze to Voyageurs National Park. While Voyageurs may not be for everyone (it gets really, really cold here). It is a beautiful park that offers cross-country skiing, snowshoeing and snow mobile riding. Anglers can enjoy ice fishing and even rent ice houses and get guides to help!

Driving on the ice roads is the real adventure in this park. A 7-mile plowed ice road starts near the Rainy Lake Visitor Center and follows the frozen lake along the north edge of the Kabetogama Peninsula, and another stretches nine miles from Lake Kabetogama to Ash River Visitor Center. Both roads are open when the ice is thick enough for safe use.

Crater Lake National Park- Crater Rim Overlook Magical View

Crater Lake becomes a magical winter wonderland with its deep blue waters surrounded by snow-covered peaks. The lake is the big draw, but it’s often blocked by clouds, so viewing the entire lake during the winter is rare. That said, the portion of the lake you can see is stunning when surrounded by snow. The overview of the crater is high on the bucket list but be sure to check the weather before you go as they do close the road sometimes.

 From November to May, visitors can enjoy ranger-led snowshoe walks, cross-country skiing, and even downhill skiing and snowboarding. You can also go sledding and ride snow mobiles in the park.

Final Thoughts: Planning a Winter Visit to U.S. National Parks

If you love snow, quiet trails, and crisp winter air, these national parks offer some of the best winter adventures in the country. Before you go, check the NPS website for current conditions -many parks require tire chains, 4WD, or route planning due to winter closures.

Bundle up, plan ahead, and get ready to experience America’s national parks in their most peaceful and magical season. We want to share tips and information we learn to help you plan your trips. We hope to inspire you to find your adventures, have lots of fun and make many memories.

The post Best National Parks to Visit in Winter for Snowy Outdoor Adventures appeared first on scenicroutetravelers.com.