10 US National Parks To Visit In January And Why
10 US National Parks To Visit In January And Why
Planning a trip in January? If you’re thinking about exploring the great outdoors, January is a fantastic month to visit some of the most iconic US National Parks. Cooler temperatures in desert parks and snow-dusted landscapes in others offer unique experiences that you won’t find at other times of the year. Here’s a list of 10 US National Parks that are absolutely worth a visit in January and why they should be on your travel list.
1. Death Valley National Park
January is the perfect time to visit Death Valley National Park because the temperatures are much cooler than the scorching heat you’d face in the summer. This means you can enjoy long scenic drives through the park without the discomfort of intense heat. The cooler weather is ideal for exploring the vast, beautiful landscapes that Death Valley has to offer, from salt flats to sand dunes, and dramatic mountain backgrounds. It’s a great time to take pictures without the glare or heat haze too!
2. Everglades National Park
Everglades National Park in January is a wildlife enthusiast’s paradise. This time of year is dry season in the park, which means lower water levels bring wildlife, like birds and alligators, into clearer view as they gather around watering holes. The cooler, less humid weather also makes trekking through the park’s trails more comfortable. So grab your binoculars and camera, and get ready for some incredible wildlife watching.
3. Joshua Tree National Park
Joshua Tree is magical in January. The mild weather during this month makes it perfect for daytime exploring and night-time star gazing. The clear skies provide an excellent opportunity for astronomy enthusiasts to observe the vast starry nights. Plus, the cooler days are great for hiking among the park’s famous rugged rock formations and unique Joshua trees without the extreme heat that the area experiences later in the year.
4. Big Bend National Park
Big Bend is known for its breathtaking desert landscape which is even more enjoyable in January’s cooler climate. This season allows you to comfortably explore the vast trails and enjoy the desert bloom, where some plants start flowering early in the year. It’s a unique sight that contrasts beautifully against the stark, rugged desert scenery.
5. Grand Canyon National Park
Imagine seeing one of the world’s most famous canyons dusted in snow. The Grand Canyon in January offers just that, with stunning views of snow-covered peaks and ridges. The crisp winter air makes visibility superb, and the snowy blanket adds a quiet, magical feel to the already spectacular canyon views.
6. Bryce Canyon National Park
Bryce Canyon in January is a winter wonderland. The park’s famous hoodoos, or rock spires, look particularly striking with a dusting of snow. The white snow complements the red rocks, creating breathtaking contrasts. The cooler temperatures also mean fewer visitors, so you can enjoy the serene beauty in peace.
7. Zion National Park
Zion National Park is peaceful and less crowded in January. This makes it a great time to explore the trails and take in the stunning views without the busy crowds that are common during warmer months. The quiet trails lead to beautiful viewpoints and the chance to enjoy this majestic park at a leisurely pace.
8. Yellowstone National Park
Yellowstone is a whole different world in January. The park’s famous geysers like Old Faithful are surrounded by ice and snow, creating a surreal landscape. Wildlife viewing is also prime during the winter months, as animals like bison and wolves are more visible against the snowy backdrop.
9. Great Smoky Mountains
The Smoky Mountains are serene and quiet in January. The bare trees and snow-covered mountains provide a peaceful atmosphere for hiking or simply enjoying the natural beauty. The winter scenes are serene, making it a perfect time for those looking to enjoy nature without the hustle and bustle.
10. Saguaro National Park
Saguaro National Park in January is ideal for those who love desert hikes but prefer cooler weather. The mild temperatures make hiking pleasant, and you’ll get to enjoy the sight of towering saguaro cacti and beautiful desert landscapes without the intense heat. It’s a great way to experience the unique desert environment in comfort.
We are Mary and Eric, the founders of Be Right Back, a blog dedicated to romance around the globe and at home.
We are Mary and Eric, the founders of Be Right Back, a blog dedicated to romance around the globe and at home. With over 10 years of experience in dating and traveling to romantic places, we share our favorite date ideas and romantic destinations to help couples level up their relationships. Having lived in and traveled through the USA, we also share our favourite things to do in the States.
With 70,000 monthly readers and 16,000 followers on social media, Be Right Back is your go-to resource for romantic trip ideas and couple activities at home and abroad.