The crowds, endless lines and packed parking lots of peak season can sometimes overshadow the magic of U.S. national parks. However, exploring national parks when visitor numbers drop in the off-season (also known as “low season”) can reveal new opportunities to experience these majestic landscapes.
Shoulder season — a transitional period between peak season and off-season when weather tends to be mild and crowds have thinned — can also offer unique ways to connect with nature.
Here are eight national parks that come alive during these quieter times of the year. As always, check for travel guidelines and closures before planning your trip.
Winter
Arches National Park and Canyonlands National Park, Utah
Summer draws big crowds at Arches National Park, but winter transforms the park into a magical wonderland in which the fiery sandstone arches contrast with pure white snow. This quiet season magnifies the otherworldly beauty of the park’s dramatic red-rock arches, soaring spires and majestic monoliths.
Enjoy peaceful solitude as you wander paths to awe-inspiring Double Arch and Balanced Rock. The scenic 18-mile park road boasts tranquil views of spectacular rock formations, like Courthouse Towers and Park Avenue. Best of all, timed-entry reservations are no longer required after October 31, making it a cinch to embark on spontaneous winter adventures.
Just a 30-minute drive from Arches, Canyonlands National Park offers more winter wonders and breathtaking red-rock vistas.
Where to Stay: Element Moab is a five-minute drive from Arches National Park’s main entrance.
Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado
In the winter, Rocky Mountain National Park is a mesmerizing snow-covered paradise, complete with towering peaks, frozen lakes and snow-clad forests.
For outdoor enthusiasts, the national park becomes a haven for winter activities, like snowshoeing and cross-country skiing near Bear Lake and Sprague Lake. Crisp mountain air and pristine landscapes elevate winter hikes and wildlife watching. You may spot majestic elk roaming or catch the elusive snowshoe hare in its new winter coat.
Backcountry skiing and sledding at Hidden Valley add extra thrills to winter exploration, as do ranger-led programs, like snowshoe walks.
Where to Stay: Fort Collins is a lively and less-crowded gateway than other park towns, like Estes Park. Book a room, studio or suite at the spacious Fort Collins Marriott.
Spring
Everglades National Park, Florida
Spring transforms Everglades National Park into an inviting sanctuary, where the weather is pleasantly warm and dry and the humidity and bugs are at a minimum, creating near-perfect conditions for outdoor adventures.
Rent a canoe or kayak from Flamingo Adventures for a gentle paddle along the Buttonwood Canal or explore the park on two wheels with a bike ride on the 15-mile Shark Valley Tram Road.
Spring’s dry season is prime time for wildlife enthusiasts, so keep your eyes peeled for alligators, crocodiles, manatees and wading birds. The park’s scenic airboat tours and ranger-led programs come alive in spring, providing insights into the park’s ecosystem.
Where to Stay: Playa Largo Resort & Spa, Autograph Collection is a 45-minute drive from the park’s Homestead entrance. It’s also a great jumping-off point for a drive along the Florida Keys, including Dry Tortugas National Park.
Summer
Saguaro National Park, Arizona
Summer in Tucson means soaring temperatures, often climbing above 100 degrees, as well as monsoons. Yet this intense season is also one of transformation in which the arid desert landscape of Saguaro National Park becomes a vibrant oasis with desert wildflowers, chollas and saguaro cacti in bloom.
To appreciate the park’s seasonal beauty, venture out during cooler early mornings or late evenings, which are perfect for hiking some of the shorter trail routes. The Valley View Overlook Trail rewards with far-reaching views of the Avra Valley dotted with cacti.
When visiting Saguaro National Park in summer, always prioritize safety by avoiding outdoor activities during the peak heat of the day and making sure you have enough water.
Where to Stay: The Westin La Paloma Resort & Spa is an ideal base for relaxation or a refreshing splash in the pool before or after outdoor exploration at Saguaro National Park.
Fall
Acadia National Park, Maine
Acadia National Park is a remarkable fall destination, when the season drapes the landscape in vibrant reds, oranges and golds. As the leaves the turn, the park’s trails stun, with the Jordan Pond Path standing out for its views of the iconic Bubble Mountains.
Starting October 7, the top of Cadillac Mountain is the first place sunrise is visible in the United States. Seize the opportunity to witness the awe-inspiring moment when the sun first kisses the horizon. Keep in mind that a vehicle reservation is required to access Cadillac Summit Road through October 27.
Where to Stay: Bangor is about an hour from the park, but it’s also just minutes from the airport. Enjoy the suite lifestyle and complimentary breakfast at Residence Inn by Marriott Bangor.
Grand Teton National Park and Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming
Grand Teton National Park enchants in fall as the park’s high peaks receive a dusting of early snow, which contrasts with the fiery yellow and orange hues of the aspen and willow trees. Scenic loop trails around Jenny Lake and String Lake captivate, with fall foliage reflecting in the water and the mighty Tetons rising in the background.
Each bike ride, hike and climb offers the chance to spot wildlife, like moose, elk, ospreys and ptarmigans, adding an extra layer to your adventures — just remember to give all wildlife a wide berth.
As a bonus, a short drive takes you to Yellowstone National Park, offering more to explore in fall, including geysers, hot springs, lakes and waterfalls.
Where to Stay: Located in Jackson, The Cloudveil, Autograph Collection is just a 10-minute drive from the Grand Teton National Park’s main entrance.
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