{"id":11236,"date":"2023-01-10T12:43:57","date_gmt":"2023-01-10T12:43:57","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/ultimatehealthreport.com\/10-best-national-parks-to-visit-in-february-1-to-skip-local-adventurer\/"},"modified":"2023-01-10T12:43:57","modified_gmt":"2023-01-10T12:43:57","slug":"10-best-national-parks-to-visit-in-february-1-to-skip-local-adventurer","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/ultimatehealthreport.com\/10-best-national-parks-to-visit-in-february-1-to-skip-local-adventurer\/","title":{"rendered":"10 Best National Parks to Visit in February + 1 to Skip \u00bb Local Adventurer"},"content":{"rendered":"


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Looking for the best national parks to visit in February?<\/em><\/p>\n

February is a great time to visit National Parks if you want the parks to yourself. It\u2019s quiet since the holidays are over, but the weather gives you options to escape the cold or embrace a winter wonderland.<\/p>\n

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This post may contain affiliate links, where we receive a small commission on sales of the products that are linked at no additional cost to you. All opinions are always our own. Read our full disclosure\u00a0for more info. Thank you for supporting the brands that make Local Adventurer possible.<\/em><\/p>\n

Last Updated: <\/em> January 4, 2023<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

Before we get into it, we want to remind everyone to explore the parks responsibly <\/strong>using the 7 Leave no Trace Principles. Have a plan, stay on established trails, carry out anything you carry in, leave what you find, minimize campfire impact, respect wildlife, and be considerate of others.<\/p>\n

About the National Park by month Series<\/span><\/h2>\n

To put together this list, we\u2019ve combined our personal experiences and tips we gathered from locals and cross-referenced them with the weather, accessibility, local forums, other blogs, seasonal attractions like fall foliage or wildflowers, and special events happening in the area. We also considered any unique adventures only offered at certain times of the year to find the most optimal months to visit each National Park. Phew! that was a lot!<\/p>\n

It took me a whole week of research, but since I\u2019m a maximizer, it was completely worth having a year-round calendar of adventures (publishing that as soon as we finish this series!). Also, check out our complete list of all the national parks and all national park units that include soon-to-be national parks.<\/p>\n

We also chose not to include the hardest-to-access national parks in Alaska and U.S. territories in this series.<\/p>\n

National Parks By Month \u2013 <\/strong> Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | Jan | Feb<\/strong> | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul<\/p>\n

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Is February a Good Time to Visit National Parks?<\/span><\/h2>\n

Yes! If you\u2019re not trying to visit one specific national park, you can always find one to visit any time of year. February is a great time to visit parks when they are quieter, and we love the parks like Death Valley, which are scorching hot in the summer.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

Plan on visiting more than two national parks this year? Pick up an America the Beautiful annual pass to save money (entrance fees to each park are, on average, $30-35 per vehicle). Plus, you are helping support the Parks that always need funding.<\/p>\n

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10 Best National Parks to Visit in February<\/span><\/h2>\n
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1. Yosemite National Park, California \u3164\u2192<\/h3>\n

9035 Village Dr, Yosemite Valley, CA 95389,\u00a0map<\/em><\/em><\/p>\n

Average Temperatures:<\/strong> 53\u00b0F \/ 30\u00b0F
Average Sunrise \/ Sunset Times:<\/strong> 6:40 AM \/ 5:43 PM<\/p>\n

Why Visit:<\/strong> We still need to visit Yosemite National Park in February for Firefall, but it always falls around my birthday, and so far, we haven\u2019t made it a birthday trip. Yosemite\u2019s Firefall happens every mid-to-late February, when the sun perfectly aligns with Horsetail Fall, making it look like it is on fire. It happens between 5-15 minutes before sunset.<\/p>\n

Best For \/ Top Activities:<\/strong> Snowshoeing, Cross Country Skiing, Ice Skating, Tours, Photography, Scenic Drives<\/p>\n

Don\u2019t Miss:<\/strong><\/p>\n

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  • To Do \u2013\u00a0Taft Point, Glacier Point,\u00a0Half Dome, Tunnel View<\/li>\n
  • Wildlife \u2013\u00a0Bears, Mule Deer, Big Horn Sheep, Great Gray Owl, Bighorn Sheep, Bobcats, Porcupines, Red Foxes<\/li>\n
  • How many days do you need? 2-4<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

    Pro Tip:<\/strong><\/span> Expect crazy crowds during this phenomenon. Also, certain roads in the park are closed or require tire chains. Be prepared!<\/p>\n

    See Related \u2013 15 Breathtaking Things to Do in Yosemite National Park<\/strong><\/p>\n

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    2. Bryce National Park, Utah \u3164\u2192<\/h3>\n

    UT-63, Bryce Canyon City, UT 84764, map<\/em><\/p>\n

    Average Temperatures:<\/strong> 38\u00b0F \/ 13\u00b0F
    Average Sunrise \/ Sunset Times:<\/strong> 7:35 AM \/ 5:56 PM<\/p>\n

    Why Visit:<\/strong> Visit Bryce Canyon during February for a winter wonderland and to avoid crowds. You can even rent snowshoes or cross-country skis to explore other parts of the park. There\u2019s also a Winter Festival <\/strong>nearby at Ruby\u2019s Inn from February 18-20, 2023.<\/p>\n

    Best For \/ Top Activities:<\/strong> Hiking and Backpacking, Stargazing, Photography, Scenic Drives<\/p>\n

    Don\u2019t Miss:<\/strong><\/p>\n

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    • To Do \u2013\u00a0Bryce Point, Scenic Drive, Inspiration Point, Navajo Loop Trail<\/li>\n
    • Wildlife \u2013\u00a0Mule Deer, Porcupines, Utah Prairie Dog, Mountain Lions, Bobcats, Coyotes<\/li>\n
    • How many days do you need? 1-2<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

      Pro Tip:<\/strong><\/span> This is a relatively small park you can see within a day. If it\u2019s crowded, just hit the trails to escape the people who don\u2019t want to explore beyond the parking lot viewpoints.<\/p>\n

      See Related \u2013 15 Amazing Things to Do in Bryce National Park<\/strong><\/p>\n

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      3. Death Valley National Park, California \u3164\u2192<\/h3>\n

      36.4799715,-118.1707461, map<\/em><\/p>\n

      Average Temperatures:<\/strong> 74\u00b0F \/ 46\u00b0F
      Average Sunrise \/ Sunset Times:<\/strong> 6:36 AM \/ 5:30 PM<\/p>\n

      Why Visit:<\/strong> Since Death Valley is basically in our backyard, we only visit in the winter. February has warm temperatures during the day for hikes, but it gets chilly at night. Remember to pack layers in the desert. Also, they have their Dark Sky Festival <\/strong>from February 24-26, 2023.<\/p>\n

      Best For \/ Top Activities:<\/strong> Hikers, Backpackers, Scenic Drive, Photography<\/p>\n

      Don\u2019t Miss:<\/strong><\/p>\n

      Pro Tip:<\/strong><\/span> The park is enormous. Give yourself plenty of travel time between spots. We were surprised by how long it took.<\/p>\n

      See Related \u2013 15 Incredible Things to Do in Death Valley National Park<\/strong><\/p>\n

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      4. Joshua Tree National Park, California \u3164\u2192<\/h3>\n

      6554 Park Blvd, Joshua Tree, CA 92252, map<\/em><\/p>\n

      Average Temperatures:<\/strong> 66\u00b0F \/ 38\u00b0F
      Average Sunrise \/ Sunset Times:<\/strong> 6:27 AM \/ 5:28 PM<\/p>\n

      Why Visit:<\/strong> We love Joshua Tree in February for the climbing. For those who don\u2019t climb, it\u2019s still a great time to get photos of Joshua trees, rock piles, and epic sunsets. There is less to do in this park if you\u2019re not into climbing, but it\u2019s worth visiting at least once.<\/p>\n

      Best For \/ Top Activities:<\/strong> Hiking, Backpacking, Stargazing, Camping, Scenic Drives, Climbing<\/p>\n

      Don\u2019t Miss:<\/strong><\/p>\n

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      • To Do \u2013\u00a0Arch Rock, Cholla Cactus Garden, Halls of Horror, Skull Rock<\/li>\n
      • Wildlife \u2013\u00a0Bobcat, Mountain Lion, Coyote, Gray Fox, Desert Kit Fox, Black Bear, Bighorn Sheep, Desert Cottontail<\/li>\n
      • How many days do you need? 1 or 2-3 if you climb<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

        Pro Tip:<\/strong><\/span> If you\u2019re lucky, you may also catch the desert with a dusting of snow. Our friends in Socal will drive out as soon as they see the expected snow.<\/p>\n

        See Related \u2013 11 Amazing Things to Do in Joshua Tree National Park<\/strong><\/p>\n

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        5. Mammoth Cave National Park, Kentucky<\/h3>\n

        37.1879181,-86.1028107, map<\/em><\/p>\n

        Average Temperatures:<\/strong><\/strong> 51\u00b0F \/ 29\u00b0F
        Average Sunrise \/ Sunset Times:<\/strong> <\/strong>6:34 AM \/ 5:23 PM<\/p>\n

        Why Visit:<\/strong> Winter is the low season at Mammoth Cave, making February a great time to avoid crowds. The cave stays the same temperature year-round (54\u00b0 F or 12 \u00b0C). You\u2019ll get to explore the caves in smaller groups. It will be chilly if you plan on exploring any surface trails, so just be sure you have the appropriate gear.<\/p>\n

        Best For \/ Top Activities:<\/strong> Hiking, Bicycling, Cave Tours, Kayaking<\/p>\n

        Don\u2019t Miss:<\/strong><\/p>\n

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        • To Do \u2013\u00a0Mammoth Cave, Doyel Valley Overlook, Sunset Point, Green River<\/li>\n
        • Wildlife \u2013\u00a0Bats, White-Tailed Deer, Coyote, Black Bear<\/li>\n
        • How many days do you need? 1-3<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

          Local Tip:<\/strong><\/span> They offer fewer cave tours during the winter, but they also don\u2019t book up quickly like in the summer.<\/p>\n

          See Related \u2013 Complete National Parks List by State<\/strong><\/p>\n

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          6. Saguaro National Park, Arizona \u3164\u2192<\/h3>\n

          2700 N Kinney Rd, Tucson, AZ 85743, map<\/em><\/p>\n

          Average Temperatures:<\/strong> 69\u00b0F \/ 41\u00b0F
          Average Sunrise \/ Sunset Times:<\/strong> 7:35 AM \/ 5:56 PM<\/p>\n

          Why Visit:<\/strong> Cool days make February one of the best times to visit Saguaro National Park for hiking the trails and enjoying the scenic drive without the heat.<\/p>\n

          Best For \/ Top Activities:<\/strong> Hiking, Scenic Drive, Photography, Camping, Ranger Programs<\/p>\n

          Don\u2019t Miss:<\/strong><\/p>\n

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          • To Do \u2013\u00a0Valley View Overlook Trail, Cactus Forest Drive, Bajada Loop Drive, Signal Hill Trail, Desert Museum<\/li>\n
          • Wildlife \u2013\u00a0Bats, Bobcats, Javelina, Mountain Lions, Gray Fox, Coyotes, Ringtail<\/li>\n
          • How many days do you need? 1-3<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

            Local Tip:<\/strong><\/span> The park has an East and West portion separated by the city (roughly 30-45 mins).<\/p>\n

            See Related \u2013 11 Beautiful Things to Do in Saguaro National Park<\/strong><\/p>\n

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            7. White Sands National Park, New Mexico \u3164\u2192<\/h3>\n

            19955 US-70, Alamogordo, NM 88310,\u00a0map<\/em><\/em><\/em><\/p>\n

            Average Temperatures:<\/strong> 63\u00b0F \/ 26\u00b0F
            Average Sunrise \/ Sunset Times:<\/strong> 7:35 AM \/ 5:56 PM<\/p>\n

            Why Visit:<\/strong> February is a great time to visit White Sands National Park. You can explore the dunes without worrying about being too hot during the day. During the night, though, you will want to bundle up.<\/p>\n

            Best For \/ Top Activities:<\/strong> Hiking, Bicycling, Backcountry Camping, Photography, Stargazing, Sledding<\/p>\n

            Don\u2019t Miss:<\/strong><\/p>\n

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            • To Do \u2013\u00a0Sledding, Dune Life Nature Trail, Alkali Flat Trail, Playa Trail<\/li>\n
            • Wildlife \u2013 American Badger, Apache Pocket Mouse, Black-Tailed Jackrabbit, Bobcat, Coyote, Kit Fox<\/li>\n
            • How many days do you need? 1-2<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

              Local Tip:<\/strong><\/span> Keep your eye on trail markers when you\u2019re hiking. It can get disorienting very quickly. It helps if you download an offline version of the map in case you need it to help you get back.<\/p>\n

              See Related \u2013 5 Incredible Things to Do at White Sands National Park<\/strong><\/p>\n

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              8. Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado<\/h3>\n

              1000 US-36, Estes Park, CO 80517,\u00a0map<\/em><\/em><\/p>\n

              Average Temperatures:<\/strong> 28\u00b0F \/ 13\u00b0F
              Average Sunrise \/ Sunset Times:<\/strong> 7:10 AM \/ 5:23 PM<\/p>\n

              Why Visit:<\/strong> Rocky Mountain National Park is perfect for winter activities, and February is the best time to ski. In February, you will find multiple peaks via backcountry skiing, and you can also find world-class snowshoeing, sledding, and hiking.<\/p>\n

              Best For \/ Top Activities:<\/strong> Backcountry Skiing, Snowshoeing, Sledding, Hiking, Wildlife Viewing, Scenic Drives, Stargazing<\/p>\n

              Don\u2019t Miss:<\/strong><\/p>\n

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              • To Do \u2013\u00a0Trail Ridge Road, Sprague Lake, Bear Lake Road, Alpine Ridge Trail, Emerald Lakes, Alberta Falls<\/li>\n
              • Wildlife \u2013\u00a0Elk, Moose, Bighorn Sheep, Mountain Lions, Deer, Bears, Bobcats<\/li>\n
              • How many days do you need? 2-4<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

                Local Tip:<\/strong><\/span> If you want to explore Bear Lake Road, you must\u00a0get a permit.<\/p>\n

                See Related \u2013 The Best National Parks to Explore in the Winter<\/strong><\/p>\n

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                9. Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona \u3164\u2192<\/h3>\n

                36.0591278,-112.1114996,\u00a0map<\/em><\/em><\/p>\n

                Average Temperatures:<\/strong> 65\u00b0F \/ 42\u00b0F
                Average Sunrise \/ Sunset Times:<\/strong> 7:35 AM \/ 5:57 PM<\/p>\n

                Why Visit:<\/strong> January and February are the quietest months in Grand Canyon, with it being slightly warmer in February than in January. We think it\u2019s great hiking weather if you layer up for early mornings and evenings.<\/p>\n

                Best For \/ Top Activities:<\/strong> Backcountry Skiing, Snowshoeing, Sledding, Hiking, Wildlife Viewing, Scenic Drives, Stargazing<\/p>\n

                Don\u2019t Miss:<\/strong><\/p>\n

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                • To Do \u2013\u00a0Trail Ridge Road, Sprague Lake, Bear Lake Road, Alpine Ridge Trail, Emerald Lakes, Alberta Falls<\/li>\n
                • Wildlife \u2013\u00a0Desert Bighorn Sheep, Mule Deer, Mountain Lions, Coyotes, Gray Fox<\/li>\n
                • How many days do you need? 1-3<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

                  Local Tip:<\/strong><\/span> Grand Canyon West is not part of Grand Canyon National Park but on Hualapai Tribal land.<\/p>\n

                  See Related \u2013 17 Breathtaking Things to Do at the Grand Canyon National Park<\/strong><\/p>\n

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                  10. Hot Springs National Park, Arkansas<\/h3>\n

                  629 Central Ave, Hot Springs National Park, AR 71901, map<\/em><\/p>\n

                  Average Temperatures:<\/strong> <\/strong>55\u00b0F \/ 32\u00b0F
                  Average Sunrise \/ Sunset Times:<\/strong> AM \/ PM<\/strong><\/p>\n

                  Why Visit:<\/strong> Winter is the best time to visit Hot Springs National Park to take advantage of the cool weather while taking a dip in the warm pools.<\/p>\n

                  Best For \/ Top Activities:<\/strong> Soaking in Springs, Hiking, Birdwatching, Scenic Drives<\/p>\n

                  Don\u2019t Miss:<\/strong><\/p>\n

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                  • To Do \u2013\u00a0Buckstaff Bathhouse, Quapaw Bathhouse, The Display Spring, Hot Water Cascade<\/li>\n
                  • Wildlife \u2013 White-Tailed Deer, Groundhog, Black Bear, Bats, Song Birds<\/li>\n
                  • How many days do you need? 1-3<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

                    Pro Tip:<\/strong><\/span> You can only soak in the two bathhouses, not the outdoor thermal springs.<\/p>\n

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                    ONE TO SKIP: Glacier National Park Montana \u3164\u2192<\/h3>\n

                    Logan\u2019s Pass Visitor Center, Browning, MT 59417,\u00a0map<\/em><\/em><\/p>\n

                    Why Skip It:<\/strong>\u00a0The roads are closed, and much of the park is inaccessible, not making it worth the visit unless you\u2019re into cross-country skiing. Wait for warmer weather so you can see lakes like the one below.<\/p>\n

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                    Map of the Best National Parks to Visit in September<\/span><\/h2>\n<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n