14 National Parks That Are Even More Beautiful in Winter
One of the best-kept secrets about America’s national parks? Many are even better in winter. From sunny desert trails lined with ocotillo and cholla to frosty mountains perfect for snowshoe saunters, many national parks are worth visiting in the depths of winter—offering a less-crowded chance to enjoy nature, complete with easier hotel and campground reservations. Plus, the chillier months are often the best time to spot elusive wildlife, like moose, elk, and wolves.
From the Grand Canyon in Arizona to Acadia in Maine, these are my favorite national parks to visit during the winter (and where to stay near each one), as an expert who has been to every one in the US. There’s a little something on this lineup for every kind of adventurer—so pack an extra layer (or two) and don’t let a bit of cold weather prevent you from experiencing these American gems. Here are 14 of the best National Parks that are even better in winter.
- Haleakalā National Park
- Carlsbad Caverns National Park
- Mount Rainier National Park
- Bryce Canyon National Park
- Great Smoky Mountains National Park
- Death Valley National Park
- Acadia National Park
- Hawaii Volcanoes National Park
- Big Bend National Park
- Grand Canyon National Park
- Rocky Mountain National Park
- Arches National Park
- Joshua Tree National Park
- US Virgin Island National Park
- Sliding Sands Trail</a>, which traverses the main crater to get you up close to colorful, rust-hued rocks, endangered <a href=https://www.cntraveler.com/"https://www.nps.gov/hale/learn/nature/silversword.htm/" target=\"_blank\">silversword plants</a>, and cinder cones. If you’d rather relax and enjoy the view from afar, <a href=https://www.cntraveler.com/"https://www.nps.gov/hale/planyourvisit/sunrise.htm/" target=\"_blank\">make a reservation</a> to watch sunrise from the mountain’s summit; pack a breakfast to enjoy at the <a href=https://www.cntraveler.com/"https://www.nps.gov/thingstodo/short-hike-to-leleiwi-overlook.htm/" target=\"_blank\">Leleiwi Overlook</a> once the sun is up. Afterwards, chill out near the beach at one of <a href=https://www.cntraveler.com/"https://www.cntraveler.com/gallery/best-hotels-in-maui/" target=\"_blank\">Maui’s exquisite hotels</a>.\n<strong>Where to stay near Haleakala National Park:</strong>\n<ul>\n<li>For modern oceanfront digs: <a href=https://www.cntraveler.com/"https://cna.st/affiliate-link/3Qp9kvLiToJt1EXqZh1bHvPLuV8SiswTS35A67wYJYhSihpjFb97FVEvgEvkdQWs4E3LmiL6KXmAeRA7Bkp7CV7VAVfymsammtvqpDPBPcYuNfuMQo3ftQzcMLRemhzFvr3T7khEQAmHUQ6NLrodkFH82u8rP1UekskoCzGrhfz2M1gXk4oiNLDtR1TPRcjmmcScTS7WPSAvfJPnir5ySJfdc3bDPdcpkX3HH9EF3RrVCFZMusaPYicR8rvc9ffdPgBpa2tzcAAT9cbeqmz6tEaJkqtVFZsR1oeoRQD8HWKcYEP18XBeT6FCcR8Bp87CAQLuCSmAGa5uWBdv2f8fS3SxaSBhUucmcuq3G3siUrJGyWhWkvcw3Zz9XuBEGP7WASMi4VYjpE6oibXvaMhrmopB6bgNAzQHGn5xu/" rel=\"sponsored\" target=\"_blank\" isAffiliateLink=\"true\"><strong>Wailea Beach Villas</strong></a></li>\n<li>For an off-grid escape: <a href=https://www.cntraveler.com/"https://cna.st/affiliate-link/6UTpXEdi6sJuJjWU28LnEDrWuZRHzFfcD76AP7Uub1EnajyfnAXgPMNNiLZX12eEJxKrbRy9CTX4GAuCb7ofxWGhEJDJ3wvDMakJZuADF7FTiNt9dah8Knj19L2dsrbfP3BHdWpsjgqVZN2yvXuiEqeLdc1UVTntpyxEf5w5dwPRKcZgKv2j2YnKngbbedfVwywLaZp1QL92VkiUAJiJ8N4kbxnsJt2UL6QCySN2n4x6zQDsz9VnKM8ncGzT5LUDfM3knQsCDg3dbQmohmGQJg2rgNKtnu4QhZKbfic1BVgaR6z8yuAoj4cg1FsmmPrhWXm2ZTXLRQY3zucPkDXobiC1TZLtP1vLKQVULbKoVmpD288FMtMny/" rel=\"sponsored\" target=\"_blank\" isAffiliateLink=\"true\"><strong>Hana Maui Resort</strong></a></li>\n</ul>","contentType":"photo","credit":"Alamy","segmentedSources":{"sm":[{"height":213,"width":320,"url":"https://media.cntraveler.com/photos/61a7e030860c006c27c59dfa/master/w_320,c_limit/Haleakala%CC%84%20National%20Park_DD9MAP.jpg"},{"height":427,"width":640,"url":"https://media.cntraveler.com/photos/61a7e030860c006c27c59dfa/master/w_640,c_limit/Haleakala%CC%84%20National%20Park_DD9MAP.jpg"}],"md":[{"height":427,"width":640,"url":"https://media.cntraveler.com/photos/61a7e030860c006c27c59dfa/master/w_640,c_limit/Haleakala%CC%84%20National%20Park_DD9MAP.jpg"},{"height":853,"width":1280,"url":"https://media.cntraveler.com/photos/61a7e030860c006c27c59dfa/master/w_1280,c_limit/Haleakala%CC%84%20National%20Park_DD9MAP.jpg"}],"lg":[{"height":683,"width":1024,"url":"https://media.cntraveler.com/photos/61a7e030860c006c27c59dfa/master/w_1024,c_limit/Haleakala%CC%84%20National%20Park_DD9MAP.jpg"},{"height":1365,"width":2048,"url":"https://media.cntraveler.com/photos/61a7e030860c006c27c59dfa/master/w_2048,c_limit/Haleakala%CC%84%20National%20Park_DD9MAP.jpg"}],"xl":[{"height":853,"width":1280,"url":"https://media.cntraveler.com/photos/61a7e030860c006c27c59dfa/master/w_1280,c_limit/Haleakala%CC%84%20National%20Park_DD9MAP.jpg"}],"xxl":[{"height":853,"width":1280,"url":"https://media.cntraveler.com/photos/61a7e030860c006c27c59dfa/master/w_1280,c_limit/Haleakala%CC%84%20National%20Park_DD9MAP.jpg"}]}}}" data-testid="GallerySlideWrapper">
AlamyHaleakalā National Park, Hawaii
Meaning “house of the sun” from the legend that demigod Maui once lassoed a star and pulled it closer to Earth to make the days last longer, Haleakalā National Park centers around the dormant, high-altitude volcano by the same name. The crown jewel of the park, though, is its Sliding Sands Trail, which traverses the main crater to get you up close to colorful, rust-hued rocks, endangered silversword plants, and cinder cones. If you’d rather relax and enjoy the view from afar, make a reservation to watch sunrise from the mountain’s summit; pack a breakfast to enjoy at the Leleiwi Overlook once the sun is up. Afterwards, chill out near the beach at one of Maui’s exquisite hotels.
Where to stay near Haleakala National Park:
- For modern oceanfront digs: Wailea Beach Villas
- For an off-grid escape: Hana Maui Resort
Ronal C. Kerbo/NPS PhotoCarlsbad Caverns National Park, New Mexico
The famous, striking limestone formations at Carlsbad Caverns have often been compared to floating underground jellyfish, or alcoves full of goblins and fairies—however you interpret them, they’re otherworldly. The best part about visiting this New Mexico locale in the winter months (apart from bypassing the crowds) is that the cave stays a balmy 56 degrees Fahrenheit, rain or shine. Ranger-led tours are available year-round, or visitors can opt to check out the Natural Entrance and Big Room Trails on their own. For those looking to check yet another winter-friendly park off their list while in the area, the nearby Guadalupe Mountains feel like an island in the Chihuahuan Desert, with vista-rich hiking trails you won’t want to miss.
Where to stay near Carlsbad Caverns National Park:
- For those keen to use loyalty points: Hyatt House Carlsbad
- For elegant historic suites: The Trinity Hotel
GettyMount Rainier National Park, Washington
As the continental US’s most glaciated peak, Mount Rainier almost always looks like a winter wonderland, even in the sweltering heat of summer. But a visit to this stratovolcano during winter months means much more accessible snowplay, with the road to the park’s gorgeous Paradise area open all day during the season. After a winding scenic drive through the sparkling, snow-covered pines, join a ranger-guided snowshoe walk (rent at the National Park Inn General Store in Longmire) before sipping afternoon tea in front of a crackling fire at the historic National Park Inn, the park’s only year-round lodging.
Where to stay near Mount Rainier National Park:
- For an artsy Tacoma stay: Hotel Murano
- For those exploring Seattle: Populus Seattle
GettyBryce Canyon National Park, Utah
If you think Bryce Canyon’s red hoodoos are beautiful, just imagine them shrouded in glittering white snow. In winter months, photographers from across the country flock to the park’s majestic Sunrise and Sunset Points to capture the faded light as it travels across the rocky pinnacles. Don your microspikes or snowshoes (available for rent at Ruby’s Inn) and travel between the two points on the Rim Trail, then warm up on a views-for-days drive to Rainbow Point—elevation 9,115 feet. Bed down at one of the area's great Airbnbs, like a tiny house built in a shipping container just 20 minutes by car from the park.
Where to stay near Bryce Canyon National Park:
- For maximum stargazing potential: Clear Sky Resorts, Bryce Canyon
- For chic yet cozy glamping: Escalante Yurts
GettyGreat Smoky Mountains National Park, North Carolina and Tennessee
Getting out in nature during an East Coast winter doesn’t have to mean shivering in a snowstorm for hours on end. At Great Smoky Mountains National Park, roughly half the season’s days boast a high temperature in the 50s—perfect for hiking the park’s more than 800 miles of trails. Start the day by taking in the views at Newfound Gap, nestled on the border of Tennessee and North Carolina, then hike to craggy Alum Cave or explore the old-timey wooden structures at Cades Cove. At night, stargaze by the fire at Cades Cove Campground, or retreat to a chic cottage and fit-for-a-foodie supper at Blackberry Farm.
Where to stay near the Great Smoky Mountains National Park:
- For the ultimate foodie experience: Blackberry Farm
- For plush beds and mountain views: The Swag
GettyDeath Valley National Park, California
Though its name may not conjure images of a carefree getaway, Death Valley is a treasure trove of colorful badlands, salt flats, and miles of secluded sand dunes. But we consider it one of the best national parks to visit in winter because the cooler months are the only time most people will want to visit. Boasting an average daytime high of 67 degrees Fahrenheit in January and 73 in February, the park is sunny all winter—yet far too hot come summer, when temps hover around 108 degrees. On your winter visit, take in the rosy glow of sunrise from Zabriskie Point and hike through the mustard-hued walls of Golden Canyon, then lounge poolside at the freshly updated Inn at Death Valley. Take a moment to appreciate the date palms and 1920s architecture of this historic hotel (once a favorite of Clark Gable) before dining in elegant, western kitsch at The Last Kind Words Saloon.
Where to stay near Death Valley National Park:
- For an epic in-park room: The Inn at Death Valley
- For an artistic desert alcove: Designed to Death Airbnb
- For Las Vegas lights: Fontainebleau Las Vegas
- hiking in the US</a>.\n<strong>Where to stay near Acadia National Park:</strong>\n<ul>\n<li>For beachy East Coast vibes: <a href=https://www.cntraveler.com/"https://cna.st/affiliate-link/YgEK7CGHVcmdkr8NuZm27f98p9wK6eiLGRWFJS3ZXHsEXYf7vxJjFZ9zNjYBWoBtUspyoX9ugbUZVanMZ1zNoVDjn1HLQrRDpkLu9qpNM1ddhFYJtoiMfUGpQL6sBLJ3kJiuwe1TXeJ1hzqqKCD5yUZ9v7EkfXMopZ8SUXQ3NpjFnm24VDrPV18Gc48QpwYUCA8jLcZm6Sy4uLnttrWWd1wTe5x5xiLY5tzW3UB1vHTrfCsgByQjVus5q2CeACmogT5J2meoWfnEx5fMS35uSzzLTZs5xtWTBK8iZyCjQHg6LWjZGNipMw1bmGrVs2GPcQCcLHAjJfVrZiH3qHBQ3iQ37xAP3bJ3nfX78tU5yx5sNYwkA5UaDbxVMnM5duUsL7dPRyBogRtLK12tbg77qJXGoDHz6baiNPB/" rel=\"sponsored\" target=\"_blank\" isAffiliateLink=\"true\"><strong>The Claremont Hotel</strong></a></li>\n<li>For Bar Harbor spa sessions: <a href=https://www.cntraveler.com/"https://cna.st/affiliate-link/D2mGqkeadDgnodU5iyXLgFcyX2km2aXzvLcmzXSY2g466N4d6v1K9YPTDQcNuiPfgpxHUogZnM3Naty2JuMXqPL7D7XApp7hLfKLQ7FgePWk2FzTQ6MJkiQSEJSsB1NeEWtJjmwFNqQMmpH6uNrah27qrDzegJrfwNE2mgBJCSEogPLtsoKqsDmEBZQ12h6jGZkDDSvjVHeF6sWYMbuZBQyGh8nyojWJp6Wv7p6jPkpwncgigDdDcY3WcMcktrye6EW8LmLdveNrSydFTAxyCBEdi9mrcvNXZUxCMH5vm6Xe6PG21pLMQJyPjSTmSrKfTBwHVmS5mYwCfCB3HEGFhR5ry3tTWS8uWzU7PKUnTxYTXaQCuAtfJ9EqvjevV/" rel=\"sponsored\" target=\"_blank\" isAffiliateLink=\"true\"><strong>Bar Harbor Inn</strong></a></li>\n</ul>","contentType":"photo","credit":"Getty","segmentedSources":{"sm":[{"height":213,"width":320,"url":"https://media.cntraveler.com/photos/5fad751b5c7373db2aae707c/master/w_320,c_limit/AcadiaNationalPark-FF0085.jpg"},{"height":427,"width":640,"url":"https://media.cntraveler.com/photos/5fad751b5c7373db2aae707c/master/w_640,c_limit/AcadiaNationalPark-FF0085.jpg"}],"md":[{"height":427,"width":640,"url":"https://media.cntraveler.com/photos/5fad751b5c7373db2aae707c/master/w_640,c_limit/AcadiaNationalPark-FF0085.jpg"},{"height":853,"width":1280,"url":"https://media.cntraveler.com/photos/5fad751b5c7373db2aae707c/master/w_1280,c_limit/AcadiaNationalPark-FF0085.jpg"}],"lg":[{"height":683,"width":1024,"url":"https://media.cntraveler.com/photos/5fad751b5c7373db2aae707c/master/w_1024,c_limit/AcadiaNationalPark-FF0085.jpg"},{"height":1365,"width":2048,"url":"https://media.cntraveler.com/photos/5fad751b5c7373db2aae707c/master/w_2048,c_limit/AcadiaNationalPark-FF0085.jpg"}],"xl":[{"height":853,"width":1280,"url":"https://media.cntraveler.com/photos/5fad751b5c7373db2aae707c/master/w_1280,c_limit/AcadiaNationalPark-FF0085.jpg"}],"xxl":[{"height":853,"width":1280,"url":"https://media.cntraveler.com/photos/5fad751b5c7373db2aae707c/master/w_1280,c_limit/AcadiaNationalPark-FF0085.jpg"}]}}}" data-testid="GallerySlideWrapper">
GettyAcadia National Park, Maine
For brave souls willing to venture into a frigid Maine winter, the reward is striking views of Mount Desert Island’s ragged Atlantic coastline. Follow Acadia National Park’s scenic Ocean Drive, which is plowed from Schooner Head down to the Fabbri Memorial during snowy months, for the best vistas. Snowshoers and cross-country skiers will also love the park’s 45 miles of groomed crushed-stone carriage roads, which offer some of the best winter hiking in the US.
Where to stay near Acadia National Park:
- For beachy East Coast vibes: The Claremont Hotel
- For Bar Harbor spa sessions: Bar Harbor Inn
GettyHawaii Volcanoes National Park, Hawaii
Popular with snowbirds in search of winter sunshine, Hawaii Volcanoes National Park experiences its peak season during winter months—and it’s easy to see why. From black sand beaches to rainforests booming with plant life and very recent lava flows, this park’s outdoor adventures are a welcome respite from the snow and ice on the mainland. Hit snooze at the nearby Volcano Rainforest Retreat, where floor-to-ceiling windows offer views of the surrounding lush foliage, before spending an afternoon soaring over the national park on a Circle of Fire helicopter tour.
Where to stay near Hawaii Volcanoes National Park:
- For bright rooms and lush gardens: SCP Hilo Hotel
- For a boutique, small-town lodge: Hamakua Hotel
GettyBig Bend National Park, Texas
A natural wonder (especially in the mostly flat Lone Star State), this park is named after a massive bend in the churning Rio Grande River that separates West Texas from Mexico—and the far-flung locale has enough scenic diversity for a week-long journey. Stay at the Chisos Mountains Lodge and marvel at high-elevation vistas of the craggy Window Formation as you hike through madrone trees and fragrant junipers. Then, soak your tired bones in the park’s historic hot springs, ideally as the sunset turns the famous Santa Elena Canyon into a hundred shades of amber.
Where to stay near Big Bend National Park:
- For design-forward Marfa digs: Hotel Saint George
- For meditative modern casitas: Willow House
GettyGrand Canyon National Park, Arizona
A bucket list item for many, the vintage cabins and restaurant at Phantom Ranch, a cottage-style 1920s lodge located at the bottom of the Grand Canyon, typically require a lottery just to snag a stay. In the winter season, however, cancellations are more frequent. Avid backpackers can often nab last-minute permits to camp at the storied Bright Angel Campground as well, enjoying the sunny weather near the Colorado River (it's a shocking 20 degrees warmer than the rim). If you’re not looking to hike nearly 5,000 vertical feet down to the canyon’s floor, just take in the panoramic views from the park’s south rim, open year-round, on the family-friendly Rim Trail that spans from South Kaibab to the stone ruins at Hermits Rest.
Where to stay near Grand Canyon National Park:
- For total red rock immersion: Enchantment Resort
- For a hip, elevated motel: High Country Motor Lodge
- For exquisite desert luxury: Amangiri
GettyRocky Mountain National Park, Colorado
When the summer road tripping crowds have dispersed, Rocky Mountain becomes a winter wonderland, boasting miles of secluded trails and backcountry ski hills. Take your little ones sledding at Hidden Valley or stomp through the Tyndall Gorge on a guided snowshoe hike to Emerald Lake. Afterwards, warm up in the idyllic mountain village of Estes Park with a steaming mug of hot chocolate at the cozy Inkwell & Brew before indulging in an elk striploin at Bird & Jim. Feeling fun? The Rock Inn hosts live music most nights of the week.
Where to stay near Rocky Mountain National Park:
- For a truly excellent dude ranch: C Lazy U
- For a historic mountain hotel: The Stanley Hotel
- For a hip hub with Flatiron views: Limelight Boulder
GettyArches National Park, Utah
Situated just outside the high desert hub of Moab, Utah, Arches has retained its legendary park status ever since Edward Abbey wrote volumes about it in the ‘60s and ‘70s. Home to over 2,000 documented sandstone arches, it’s the perfect place to indulge your inner child, whether that’s on a day hike through the red rocks of Devils Garden or on a dark sky tour, where you can take advantage of the early sunsets. When you’re not hiking through the park’s vermillion escarpments, stoke your adrenaline on a guided canyoneering tour before filling up on grass-fed filet and homemade pie at Birdy’s Finer Diner. Don't forget to pack layers since this desert area can dip into freezing temperatures at night.
Where to stay near Arches National Park:
- For luxurious riverside cabins: Sorrel River Ranch Resort and Spa
- For family-friendly downtown lofts: Gravity Haus Moab
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GettyJoshua Tree National Park, California
Joshua Tree has long been a bohemian desert escape for the hoi polloi of California, drawing hipster fashionistas and dirtbag rock climbers alike during its mildly cool, sunny winter months. Whether you’re looking to saddle up equestrian-style or embark on a scenic drive through an arid expanse of enormous boulders and spiky yucca trees, the park is sure to keep you busy. Don’t miss the opportunity to take in panoramic views of the area on a hike to the summit of Ryan Mountain or peruse the Cholla Cactus Garden at sunrise. Afterwards, check the event calendar at Pappy and Harriet’s for killer live music or head over to La Copine for Halibut à la Nage.
Where to stay near Joshua Tree National Park:
- For midcentury bliss: The Bungalows by Homestead Modern
- For a family-friendly Airbnb: Desert Escape with Hot Tub
- For those playing cowgirl: Pioneertown Motel
- East Coasters</a> fed up with freezing temps. Suit up and <a href=https://www.cntraveler.com/"https://divelowkey.com//" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow\">scuba dive with sea turtles</a> or spend a mellow day sipping beers on the brilliant white sand of Honeymoon Beach. Guided <a href=https://www.cntraveler.com/"https://www.nps.gov/viis/planyourvisit/rangerguidedtours.htm/" target=\"_blank\">ranger hikes</a> to historic outposts and ancient petroglyphs are also on offer for those seeking a more active vacation. Got kids in tow? Don’t miss the opportunity to take them <a href=https://www.cntraveler.com/"https://www.cntraveler.com/best-snorkeling-in-the-world/" target=\"_blank\">snorkeling</a> and sail up to a pizza restaurant via boat.\n<strong>Where to stay near the US Virgin Islands:</strong>\n<ul>\n<li>For romantic, beachy vibes: <a href=https://www.cntraveler.com/"https://cna.st/affiliate-link/4AKUnCZJo8vDAMN6jf4cAqmozk33YNSpdRnwNBcHjgxe5HJgbZtuVEeXbvkcPo5apd6qvgR1yUigYL24WGCUoyn2iZbmrgXTUnbBZTJemNB9stirswRpFxA5TQ8FFmovPTZzD1mn1GyzDHYDtBvnXqZcxQDTKM8cH1QKmLBwLWMtsNXNaV83fjdaWYEv578p3aDHYYqDqL3dm4hHPSH99sH9it3Vu8HbhqyQythAVkSuyxYaGY8NEwq6MnX81ppCWm1rm7dzLkZwdRzxjXZiPwjF79Jrqrr6hXBNfCukzPpfXZvSui1Urw3zKfAttdU5PmDJs4GgjaqhBFVav39Dr1Fa4fJaoJk3uh42udZeKWXxy7KnLZdAAk1VWynfTaPEdyDcPBkk8emuzRsL5qnUTFW764hRGD3VLeTTw43et2c1AC2MBn9LgAAL1SBMHcAtNEBUT9j2DSavfbuY6u/" rel=\"sponsored\" target=\"_blank\" isAffiliateLink=\"true\"><strong>Sea Shore Allure</strong></a></li>\n<li>For a posh, luxury villa: <a href=https://www.cntraveler.com/"https://cna.st/affiliate-link/Ziz49JQti6yAMe9jxKiM7kEZ6g1BiYnGWsk32FkGVeaAHngXccZxyJSna7zj4PDshXYFcZQKNz2VDwyZmS36QjyeQvy4cRpa17545cX2igYuEqrLUcEBVGpV9U9F71bZitD9UhSxPBhvrAuLBoTdW2Bx9MBhEKgdC7sD5PKRXP2YngAMo4brThppDMk14ZDTxjZor4qaGcoRwHWajZLmFBRaVDWM6owuc84StGhG3V99Uuo8Pux1LynD3KQM64mJKWMwpweCMoqKEcKLD3dSxCo1pq3VweheG96rBRGRSwmuoFrwZ1ehWo2ccuSqwqi7BsCBsSih9M4mAbWKTB1J5ErpU55jBV9fULd2T8v5k5o/" rel=\"sponsored\" target=\"_blank\" isAffiliateLink=\"true\"><strong>Palladio’s View</strong></a></li>\n</ul>","contentType":"photo","credit":"Getty","segmentedSources":{"sm":[{"height":221,"width":320,"url":"https://media.cntraveler.com/photos/6939d30c603d0422efaa0295/master/w_320,c_limit/GettyImages-959566114.jpg"},{"height":442,"width":640,"url":"https://media.cntraveler.com/photos/6939d30c603d0422efaa0295/master/w_640,c_limit/GettyImages-959566114.jpg"}],"md":[{"height":442,"width":640,"url":"https://media.cntraveler.com/photos/6939d30c603d0422efaa0295/master/w_640,c_limit/GettyImages-959566114.jpg"},{"height":884,"width":1280,"url":"https://media.cntraveler.com/photos/6939d30c603d0422efaa0295/master/w_1280,c_limit/GettyImages-959566114.jpg"}],"lg":[{"height":708,"width":1024,"url":"https://media.cntraveler.com/photos/6939d30c603d0422efaa0295/master/w_1024,c_limit/GettyImages-959566114.jpg"},{"height":1415,"width":2048,"url":"https://media.cntraveler.com/photos/6939d30c603d0422efaa0295/master/w_2048,c_limit/GettyImages-959566114.jpg"}],"xl":[{"height":884,"width":1280,"url":"https://media.cntraveler.com/photos/6939d30c603d0422efaa0295/master/w_1280,c_limit/GettyImages-959566114.jpg"}],"xxl":[{"height":884,"width":1280,"url":"https://media.cntraveler.com/photos/6939d30c603d0422efaa0295/master/w_1280,c_limit/GettyImages-959566114.jpg"}]}}}" data-testid="GallerySlideWrapper">
GettyUS Virgin Island National Park, US Virgin Islands
Not everyone wants to embrace the cold on their winter break, and the US Virgin Islands offers the ideal tropical escape for East Coasters fed up with freezing temps. Suit up and scuba dive with sea turtles or spend a mellow day sipping beers on the brilliant white sand of Honeymoon Beach. Guided ranger hikes to historic outposts and ancient petroglyphs are also on offer for those seeking a more active vacation. Got kids in tow? Don’t miss the opportunity to take them snorkeling and sail up to a pizza restaurant via boat.
Where to stay near the US Virgin Islands:
- For romantic, beachy vibes: Sea Shore Allure
- For a posh, luxury villa: Palladio’s View
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This gallery has been updated since its original publish date.
