10 Best National Parks to Visit in January

Ready to start the new year with an epic adventure? January is not just the start of a new year, but also a fantastic time for a winter getaway. To help you escape the post-holiday lull, we’ve put together the ultimate guide to the 10 best National Parks to visit in January!

January is the month that marks the beginning of a new year, and what better way to kick it off than by exploring the beauty of America’s National Parks? Now, we get it—January’s got this whole “brrr” thing going on, but hear us out.

Many parks offer a whole new kind of beauty under a blanket of snow, and those located in milder or tropical climates are more comfortable to explore in the cooler weather. Best of all? Fewer people! 

Seriously, we’ve been to 48 out of the 63 national parks (yeah, we’re kind of obsessed), and winter? It’s waiting to blow your mind. 

To help you make the most of this season, we’ve compiled a list of the 10 best National Parks to visit in January. You’ll find helpful tips and logistical information to ensure your trip is a success! So, pack your bags (and maybe some thermal socks) and get ready for an unforgettable start to the year!

Quick Disclaimer About Our Monthly National Parks Series

Welcome to our monthly series, where we share our handpicked recommendations for the best national parks to visit each month. Our goal is to highlight every National Park in the US (that we have personally visited), ensuring each park receives its spotlight at least once. Some parks may even make multiple appearances throughout the year, allowing you to witness their transformation across the seasons!

While we have yet to explore every single National Park in the US, you can trust that our recommendations have been carefully selected. Please note that the list we provide is just a starting point, as there are countless other National Parks to explore beyond what we suggest here.

Tips for Visiting National Parks in January

Before You Go: It’s important to take a moment to familiarize yourself with the park’s regulations, permits, and reservations in advance. Reserving campsites or activities ahead of time can save you from potential headaches later on, as popular parks tend to fill up quickly.

Check Weather Conditions: Some of the parks we are sharing receive snow or hit freezing temperatures in January, so make sure to check conditions ahead of time!

Get Your Maps Ready: Most parks have unreliable cell coverage, so it’s a good idea to pre-download maps for smoother navigation.

Want to get 30% off an AllTrails+ membership? Click this link or use our code aplusk30 (you must redeem this code on the website, not the app)!

We use AllTrails+ on every single hike and it is the most helpful hiking tool out there! Some of the features we love are offline maps (so we can navigate even without cell service), wrong-turn alerts, and its 3D maps feature, so we can get a feel for trails before we hike.

Explore with the America the Beautiful Pass: For just $80, the America the Beautiful Pass gives you access to over 2,000 federal recreation sites, including National Parks. 

Follow Pet Guidelines: Each park has its own rules for pets, so it’s important to plan ahead and make accommodations for your furry friends. Some areas might be off-limits to pets to protect the local wildlife and scenery.

Leave No Trace: Let’s make sure we preserve the beauty of these parks for generations to come! Remember to clean up after yourself, stick to marked paths, and minimize your impact on the environment.

10 best national parks to visit in January

1. Saguaro National Park

Located in the heart of the Sonoran Desert, Saguaro National Park is best known for its namesake, the saguaro cactus (Carnegiea gigantea). These towering cacti can reach heights of 50 feet and live for more than a hundred years. Unique to the Sonoran Desert, they are celebrated for their imposing size and distinct branching arms.

But there’s more than just cacti—think javelinas, coyotes, and a wide array of birds. Plus, the park features petroglyphs, and ancient rock carvings left by the Hohokam people.

Where is Saguaro National Park?

Nestled in southeastern Arizona, the park is split into two separate areas by the city of Tucson—the Tucson Mountain District on the west and the Rincon Mountain District on the east. Both sections are just a short drive from Tucson, making them perfect for day trips.

Why Visit in January?

Despite the arid reputation of deserts, Saguaro National Park comes to life in January. It’s a particularly good time for birdwatching, with species like the vibrant Northern Cardinal, iconic Gila Woodpecker, and swift Gambel’s Quail on display.

Weather in January

In January, you can expect a mild and dry climate, with daytime highs around 63°F (17°C) and nighttime lows close to 48°F (9°C).

Best Things to Do in Saguaro National Park

Hike to Wasson Peak: The highest point in the Tucson Mountain Range, Wasson Peak stands at 4,687 feet. Several trails take you to the summit, but the 7.9-mile Hugh Norris Trail loop is what we recommend.

Mica View Trail: On this flat, 3.8-mile round-trip hike you’ll walk alongside towering Saguaro cacti and catch awesome views of the Rincon Mountains and Tucson.

Take a Scenic Drive: Not a fan of hiking? No problem. The park offers some stunning drives, like the Cactus Forest Loop Drive and Bajada Loop Drive, which showcase the captivating saguaro-filled landscape.

Know Before You Go

Mind Your Shoes: Planning to walk around? Skip the sandals. The desert is known for its spiky terrain, and the last thing you’d want is a Cholla cactus needle stuck in your foot.

Keep an Eye Out for Wildlife: The Sonoran Desert hosts six species of rattlesnakes, and that’s just the start. Mountain lions, scorpions, spiders, and centipedes are also residents here. While they’re not out to bother you, it’s wise to be aware of your surroundings.

Learn more about Saguaro National Park
Blog posts
Hiking Wasson Peak at Saguaro National Park in Tucson, Arizona
The BEST Things to do in Saguaro National Park West  

YouTube video
One Day at Saguaro National Park (West) 🌵 | Hiking Wasson Peak, Valley View Overlook, & more!

2. Big Bend National Park

Big Bend National Park is situated on the “big bend” of the Rio Grande River, which forms the border between the United States and Mexico. 

This park is a bit off the beaten path and only sees around 400,000 visitors a year, but trust me, it’s totally worth the trip. One of the coolest things about Big Bend is the sheer variety of landscapes you’ll see. From dry deserts to towering mountains, there’s something for everyone. 

One particularly stunning spot is Santa Elena Canyon, where you’ll be in awe of the towering cliffs along the Rio Grande. And let’s not forget the Chisos Mountains, which are the heart of the park and home to all sorts of wildlife, like desert bighorn sheep and javelinas.

Where is Big Bend National Park?

Nestled in the southwestern corner of Texas along the U.S.-Mexico border, Big Bend sprawls across a whopping 801,163 acres within the Chihuahuan Desert, making it the 15th largest national park in the U.S!

Why Visit in January?

January offers a welcome break from the park’s blistering summer temperatures. The weather is comfortably cool, and the trails are far less crowded than during peak seasons. Plus, as an International Dark Sky Park, Big Bend offers starry nights that are especially dazzling during the longer winter nights.

Weather in January

January in Big Bend typically brings sunny and mild weather, with daytime highs averaging around 66°F (19°C) and nighttime lows dipping to 38°F (3°C). Do note that the Chisos Mountains can be considerably cooler than the surrounding desert terrain.

Best Things to Do in Big Bend National Park

Santa Elena Canyon Trail: Want a quick but stunning hike? Head over to the end of Ross Maxwell Scenic Drive to find one of the park’s most gorgeous trails! At just 1.3 miles long, this hike features towering cliffs that soar up to 1,500 feet!  

Go for a Scenic Drive: For those not keen on hiking, Big Bend offers jaw-dropping drives like the Ross Maxwell Scenic Drive and the Camino del Rio.

The Window Trail: This is a 5.2-mile round-trip hike starting in Chisos Basin. You’ll meander through Oak Creek Canyon and end up at “The Window,” a rock formation offering views that switch from desert to forest to rock walls!

Know Before You Go

Check Your Vehicle: While the main attractions can be reached via paved roads suitable for two-wheel-drive cars, some of the more rugged trails require a four-wheel-drive vehicle with at least 10-inch clearance.

Plan for Parking: Given the park’s increasing popularity, parking can be scarce, particularly at popular trailheads. It’s a good idea to get an early start to nab a parking spot.

Fuel Up: Big Bend is enormous—larger than Rhode Island, in fact. Fuel options are limited to two gas stations, one at Panther Junction and another at Rio Grande Village, so plan accordingly.

Learn more about Big Bend National Park
Blog post
The ULTIMATE West Texas Road Trip: Marfa and Big Bend 

YouTube video
Big Bend National Park + Marfa, TX | US Road Trip Days 4-7

3. Haleakala National Park

Haleakala National Park is a landscape of extremes located on Maui, Hawaii’s second-largest island! Aptly named “House of the Sun” in Hawaiian, Haleakala is renowned for its sunrises and sunsets. But that’s not all—the park is also home to the Haleakala Crater, shaped by erosion and lava flows over millennia. 

Towering at over 10,000 feet, this dormant volcano is just one part of a diverse landscape that includes everything from subalpine forests to tropical rainforests. The area is rich in Hawaiian culture and history, and you might even catch a glimpse of an endangered native bird, the ‘Alauahio, if you’re lucky.

Where is Haleakala National Park?

Covering about 33,265 acres, the park is split into two main regions: the Summit District and the Kīpahulu District.

Why Visit in January?

January is a sweet spot for visiting Haleakala. The weather is cooler than in the summer months, making outdoor activities much more enjoyable. In January, the summit greets early risers with an unforgettable sunrise above the cloud cover. Plus, you’ll be sharing the park with fewer tourists compared to peak seasons. 

Weather in January

The weather in Haleakala National Park during January is usually mild, with highs around 76°F (25°C) and lows about 72°F (22°C). However, the weather can change rapidly with elevation. If you’re heading to the summit, expect temperatures to drop—sometimes as low as 40°F (4°C). Keep an eye out for rain or even snow at higher elevations.

Best Things to Do in Haleakala National Park

Witness the Haleakala Sunrise: No trip to Haleakala is complete without watching the sunrise from the summit. After all, it’s called the “House of the Sun” for a reason. Just make sure you bring a jacket or blanket. It gets COLD up there!

Hiking Haleakala Crater: With trails like the Halemau’u Trail and Sliding Sands (Keonehe’ehe’e), you’ll start just 500 feet below the summit and descend 2,500 feet into the crater itself!

Halalai’i and Pu’unaue Trail: This 13.6-mile loop trail kicks off in Kula, and it’s perfect for backpacking! The trail starts at the Sliding Sands Trailhead and descends 2,500 feet through scenic switchbacks. It will eventually take you to the Kapalaoa Cabin for an overnight stay.

Know Before You Go

Book Your Sunrise Spot: The sunrise view spots fill up fast. Make sure to reserve your place in advance through the National Park Service website.

Watch Out for Fog: Due to its elevation, Haleakala can get foggy. Try to arrive early for the best chance at a clear view, especially for sunrise.

Altitude Alert: The summit sits at a high elevation, and it’s not uncommon to feel effects like shortness of breath. Take it easy, keep hydrated, and be mindful of how you’re feeling. It’s also MUCH colder at the summit than by the ocean, so bring layers!

Learn more about Haleakala National Park
We have been to Haleakala National Park twice for sunrise, but unfortunately it was completely fogged out both times, so we never created any content about it.

4. Biscayne National Park

Did you know that Biscayne National Park is home to one of the largest reef systems in the entire world? Crazy, right? And get this—a whopping 95% of the park is submerged underwater. That’s a lot of ocean! 

But the park doesn’t just protect the reefs—it also preserves the stunning Biscayne Bay and the surrounding barrier reefs. On top of that, it boasts the longest continuous stretch of mangroves along Florida’s eastern coast!

Between its underwater marvels, colorful coral reefs, and secluded islands, the park is a haven for those wanting something a little different from their national park experience.

Where is Biscayne National Park?

Spread over 170,000 acres, the park is situated in southern Florida, just a quick 20-minute drive south from Miami. The Dante Fascell Visitor Center, the park’s only mainland component accessible by car, serves as a great starting point.

Why Visit in January?

Though you can visit Biscayne National Park all year round, January is particularly delightful for underwater exploration. The waters are clear, making it an excellent time to explore sunken ships, float alongside sea turtles, and marvel at the vibrant coral formations.

Weather in January

Due to its tropical setting, Biscayne experiences a wet and dry season. January falls within the dry season, offering mild weather conditions perfect for outdoor activities. Expect daytime highs around 76°F (24°C) and lows near 72°F (22°C).

Best Things to Do in Biscayne National Park

Stroll the Convoy Point Jetty Trail: This short 0.8-mile trail offers epic views of Biscayne Bay with a leisurely walk along the mangrove-fringed shoreline that ends at the Colonial Bird Protection Area.

Climb Boca Chita Lighthouse: Located on Boca Chita Key, this historic lighthouse was built in the 1930s by industrialist Mark C. Honeywell. The 65-foot tower provides a breathtaking 360-degree view that includes the bay, the ocean, nearby islands, and even Miami’s skyline!

Snorkel or Dive Offshore: Biscayne offers a world of underwater exploration. Popular reefs include Long Reef, featuring the Mandalay Wreck, Ball Buoy Reef, Anniversary Reef, and the area around the Fowey Rocks Lighthouse. The diversity and colors of the marine life are simply incredible!

Know Before You Go

Get on a Boat: To fully experience Biscayne’s islands, reefs, and other aquatic wonders, you’ll need to venture out by boat. Some authorized tour operators include Diver’s Paradise, Explore Miami Boat Rental, and Island Queen Cruises.

Book in Advance: Given its popularity, especially for activities like guided tours and boat rentals, it’s wise to book your slots well in advance. This ensures you won’t miss out on the best the park has to offer.

Learn more about Mammoth Cave National Park
We planned to spend a day here, but Kathryn took a tumble early in the day and injured her hand. You can see the attempted adventure below

YouTube Video
Mammoth Cave Adventure

5. Rocky Mountain National Park

Rocky Mountain National Park is a stunning natural playground set in the core of the Rocky Mountains. Covering 415 square miles, the park is a wonderland of lofty peaks, vibrant alpine meadows, shimmering lakes, and a rich variety of wildlife. 

With more than 60 peaks rising over 12,000 feet, including the majestic Longs Peak, the park’s extensive network of trails offers hikers and climbers awe-inspiring vistas. From elk and mountain lions to marmots and diverse birdlife, you’ll encounter an array of animals, including some endangered species like the Canadian lynx and bighorn sheep.

Where is Rocky Mountain National Park?

You’ll find this natural gem in central Colorado, northwest of Denver, straddling the counties of Larimer, Grand, and Boulder.

Why Visit in January?

January is a magical time to experience Rocky Mountain National Park, especially if you’re a fan of winter sports and serene, snowy landscapes. Popular trails transform into routes for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing, and the crisp, clear air makes for some of the best stargazing opportunities.

Weather in January

Expect chilly temperatures with average highs hovering around 30°F (-1°C) and lows dropping down to 15°F (-9°C). If you’re geared up for winter weather, you’ll find the park incredibly refreshing and scenic during this time of year.

Best Things to Do in Rocky Mountain National Park

Snowshoe to Sky Pond: An adventurous 8.6-mile round-trip route with a 1,700-foot elevation gain, this trek is a winter wonderland when snow-covered. The view of the frozen lake surrounded by snow-draped peaks is absolutely worth the effort.

Visit Emerald Lake: Closer and more accessible than Sky Pond, Emerald Lake offers a moderate 3.2-mile round-trip snowshoe or ski journey with a 702-foot elevation gain. This lake is another winter gem that shouldn’t be missed.

Go sledding: Want to feel like a kid again? Grab a sled and head to Hidden Valley! If you don’t have a sled, you can rent one in Estes Park.

Attend a ranger-led snowshoe walk: If you’re a bit nervous to hit the trails by yourself, snowshoe with a ranger! Between mid-January and early March the park offers ranger-led snowshoe walks. These don’t follow a specific trail, so you’ll get to experience something you wouldn’t on your own. You must make a reservation in advance and there are specific rules to attend, which you can read here.

Know Before You Go

Layer Up: With fluctuating weather conditions, it’s essential to layer your clothing. The park might see both rain and snow in January, so it’s best to come prepared for anything.

Altitude Awareness: The park starts at an elevation of 7,600 feet, and it only goes up from there. Altitude sickness can be a concern, so make sure you acclimate gradually and keep an eye out for symptoms. Don’t rush into high-elevation hikes without giving your body time to adjust.

Learn more about Rocky Mountain National Park
Blog posts
How to hike to Sky Pond at Rocky Mountain National Park
Hiking the Emerald Lake Trail at Rocky Mountain National Park (+ Lake Haiyaha)
The Ultimate Guide to Visiting Rocky Mountain National Park   

YouTube videos
Hiking to the GORGEOUS Sky Pond at Rocky Mountain National Park
A gloomy day at Rocky Mountain National Park (Attempting Mount Ida, Trail Ridge Road, & wildlife!)

6. Death Valley National Park

Contrary to its ominous name, Death Valley National Park in California boasts a surreal beauty. Known for its extreme conditions, this place has rightfully earned a reputation as one of the hottest, lowest, and driest places in North America! With temperatures reaching over 120 degrees Fahrenheit during summer, it’s no surprise that some may be intimidated.

But visit in the winter months, and you’ll discover a landscape filled with salt flats, sand dunes, rugged canyons, mountains, and even a waterfall or two! 

Where is Death Valley National Park?

Situated on the border between California and Nevada, Death Valley National Park is  massive! Covering 3.4 million acres, Death Valley is the largest national park in the lower 48 states! Given its vast size, you’ll most likely need more than one trip to fully take it in.

Why Visit in January?

Death Valley is easily one of the best National Parks to visit in January. January offers a respite from the notorious heat, turning hiking and exploring into a more pleasant experience. Imagine the salt flats at Badwater Basin coming alive in the soft light of dawn and dusk, set against the backdrop of the Panamint Mountains. Pretty amazing, right?

Weather in January

January is a far cry from the sizzling summer months, offering daytime temperatures ranging between 60°F and 70°F (15°C to 21°C). Nights can be brisk, with lows between 30°F and 40°F (-1°C to 4°C). And if you’re venturing to higher elevations, it’ll be even chillier.

Best Things to Do in Death Valley National Park

Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes: Catch these dunes near Stovepipe Wells at sunrise, and you’ll be rewarded with some breathtaking photo ops. The dunes get their name from the resilient mesquite trees that dot the landscape.

Driving Titus Canyon (currently closed): This 27-mile stretch is a rollercoaster of views, from mountain passes to a ghost town and even some ancient petroglyphs. Oh, and did we mention you drive through a massive canyon? A high-clearance vehicle is recommended.

Badwater Basin: Take a walk on the wild side—or rather, the low side—of North America. At 282 feet below sea level, Badwater Basin is home to intricate salt polygons that you can get up close and personal with via a short walkway.

Know Before You Go

Be Prepared for Limited Connectivity: Cell service is spotty, so make sure you download your maps for offline use before heading into the park.

Pack Your Essentials: Water and food stations are few and far between, although you can refill at Furnace Creek Visitor Center and Stovepipe Wells Ranger Station.

Fuel Up: Given the park’s enormity (it has over 800 miles of road), make sure to keep your gas tank full. There are only three gas stations in the park, and only two offer diesel. Plus, fuel prices inside the park can be steep.

Learn more about Death Valley National Park
Blog posts
The ULTIMATE guide to visiting Death Valley National Park (Things to do + itinerary options) 
How to hike Golden Canyon at Death Valley National Park (+ Red Cathedral & Gower Gulch) 
Hiking the Mosaic Canyon Trail in Death Valley National Park 
How to hike to Darwin Falls in Death Valley National Park (A year round waterfall in the desert!) 

YouTube videos
The ULTIMATE 3 days in DEATH VALLEY National Park! 
An EPIC drive to Death Valley (Ash Meadows, Wild Burros, Rhyolite GHOST town, & Titus Canyon!)

7. Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

One of the oldest national parks in the U.S., Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is a hotbed—literally—of volcanoes! Established in 1916 and sitting on the Big Island of Hawaii, this park is home to two active volcanoes: Kīlauea and Mauna Loa. But it’s not just about the lava; you can also wander through Lava Tubes, discover ancient petroglyphs, and trek through lush rainforests.

Where is Hawaii Volcanoes National Park?

This dramatic park is located on the Big Island of Hawaii, covering more than 300,000 acres. It’s a living laboratory of volcanic activity, where landscapes shift and renew constantly.

Why Visit in January?

Contrary to what you might think, January is a great time to visit. The park is less crowded, and the weather is on the cooler side, which is more comfortable for hiking near molten lava. It’s a great way to ring in the new year with a bit of adventure.

Weather in January

January in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is relatively mild, with average highs around 73°F (23°C) and lows near 65°F (18°C). If you’re venturing to the summit of Kīlauea, expect it to be chillier, with temperatures averaging around 58°F (14°C). And don’t forget your rain gear—January is the start of the wetter season.

Best Things to Do in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

Trek the Kilauea Iki Trail: This 3.2-mile loop offers a hike through rainforests and a solidified lava lake, eventually taking you along the rim for a breathtaking view into the crater itself.

Explore Thurston Lava Tube (Nahuku): This short 0.4-mile loop trail leads you through a rainforest to a tunnel formed by solidified lava. Inside, you’ll find interesting formations like stalactites and stalagmites.

Drive the Chain of Craters Road: This scenic drive is a must-do. It takes you past ancient petroglyphs, through lava fields, and all the way to where lava meets the sea, creating dramatic plumes of steam.

Know Before You Go

Be Lava-Safe: Always stick to the park’s guidelines when viewing lava. It’s mesmerizing but dangerous. Stay within marked areas for your safety.

Check for Lava Flow Updates: Kīlauea has been active since 1983, so it’s smart to check for any road closures due to lava flows before you go. You can find this information on the National Park Service website.

Learn more about Hawaii Volcanoes National Park
Blog post
One Day at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park Itinerary

YouTube video
Exploring Hawaii Volcanoes National Park (Our 20th National Park!) | Big Island Day 5

8. Joshua Tree National Park

Tucked into California’s sprawling desert, Joshua Tree National Park gets its name from the unique Joshua Tree (Yucca brevifolia), which are spiky-leaved trees that look like they were sketched by Dr. Seuss! 

Beyond the one-of-a-kind trees, this park offers wide-open desert views and some seriously cool rocks. If you’re into rock climbing, the massive granite formations here are a big draw. The best part? You can see a lot of this place in just one day!

Where is Joshua Tree National Park?

Situated in Southern California, Joshua Tree National Park bridges the gap between the Mojave Desert and the Colorado Desert. Covering about 800,000 acres, the park gives you a mash-up of desert plants, cool rock formations, and some pretty epic scenery.

Why Visit in January?

Even though it’s winter, Joshua Tree stays sunny and is less crowded. If you don’t mind the chilly nights that approach freezing temperatures, camping is pretty awesome too.

Weather in January

In December, the average weather in Joshua Tree National Park is relatively cool, featuring highs of around 61°F (16°C) and lows of 39°F (4°C). The moderate climate makes it a prime time for outdoor activities like hiking and rock climbing!

Best Things to Do in Joshua Tree National Park

Cholla Cactus Garden (at sunrise or sunset): A brief 0.25-mile round-trip hike, this trail offers stunning desert sunrise and sunset views that are a photographer’s dream! However, take care, as the trail is famous for its hazardous Cholla Cacti that sport large, spiky needles. Be mindful of where you step.

Arch Rock: This 1.2-mile trail provides the opportunity to see a 30-foot-high natural arch within the park’s boundaries. Although some off-trail bouldering is required, the effort rewards you with an exceptional photo opportunity and a fun rocky scramble.

Skull Rock Trail: This easy-to-moderate loop is just 1.7 miles long and takes about an hour to complete. You’ll weave through a wonderland of giant boulders and iconic formations—Skull Rock being the star of the show! Be warned, Skull Rock gets VERY busy, so getting a photo opportunity may take some patience. We found the nearby formations to be even more fun to explore!

Know Before You Go 

If camping is on your agenda, get ready for chilly nights: Packing layers and even a sleeping bag liner can be a game-changer. If camping isn’t your thing, you can find cozy Airbnbs close to the park for a more comfortable stay.

Gas Up Before You Go: Joshua Tree National Park is pretty isolated. Top off your tank before entering the park because there are no gas stations inside. Depending on your itinerary, you might be on the road for several hours within the park.

Stay Hydrated: The park’s water supply is sparse, so bring your own. The park rangers recommend at least 2 liters of water per person per day.

Learn more about Joshua Tree National Park
Blog post
The Best Things to do in Joshua Tree National Park (+ a one day itinerary!) 

YouTube video
One Day in Joshua Tree National Park (Ryan Mountain, Keys View, Cholla Cactus Garden, & MORE!)

9. Pinnacles National Park

Where the Gabilan Mountains meet the San Andreas Fault, you’ll find Pinnacles National Park! This park showcases lush valleys, intriguing talus caves, jutting limestone spires, and imposing cliffs that seem to appear out of thin air!

The striking rock formations in Pinnacles are thanks to ancient volcanic activity. On the park’s east side, you’ll see giant monoliths, the leftovers from a long-gone volcano that moved 195 miles northwest due to tectonic shifts!

Where is Pinnacles National Park

Located in California’s Salinas Valley, Pinnacles National Park, California’s smallest national park, is roughly 270 miles north of Los Angeles and 130 miles south of San Francisco.

Why Visit in January 

January is a great time to check out the park’s unique talus caves, which boast intricate rock formations and delicate ecosystems. The mild temperatures make cave exploration especially enjoyable during this time.

Weather in January

Expect January weather in Pinnacles National Park to be cool and somewhat damp, with highs around 60°F (16°C) and lows dipping to 42°F (6°C).

Best Things to Do in Pinnacles National Park

Bear Gulch Cave, High Peaks Trail, & Condor Gulch Trail: If you’re up for an adventurous hike, this is our top recommendation. The loop spans about 5.5 miles and has an elevation gain of 1,630 feet. These caves are natural labyrinths formed by huge boulders wedged into narrow canyons.

Hike Balconies Cave: This one-of-a-kind 2.4-mile talus cave system features narrow passages created by giant boulders jammed together. Be ready to crouch, scramble, and use your hands to navigate through the cave.

Watch California Condors: Keep an eye out for these massive vultures, among the largest flying birds on the planet. With a wingspan of 9.5 feet and weighing up to 20 pounds, it’s incredible to see them glide effortlessly for hours without flapping their wings!

Know Before You Go

Two ways in: The west entrance is about 10 miles northeast of Soledad, California, but be warned, the road is narrow, winding, and not suited for larger vehicles. The east entrance is around 35 miles southeast of Hollister, California. Just a heads up, there are no connecting roads between these two entrances within the park.

Learn more about Pinnacles National Park
Blog post
The BEST Day Hike in Pinnacles National Park

YouTube video
Hiking the Condor Gulch, High Peaks, & Bear Gulch Loop at Pinnacles National Park (California)

10. Everglades National Park

Everglades National Park is far more than just a park; it’s a fascinating, sprawling complex of ecosystems that no other place in the U.S. can quite match. Often dubbed the “River of Grass,” this massive tropical wilderness encompasses not just vast marshlands, but also intricate mangrove forests, expansive sawgrass prairies, and a whole slew of diverse estuarine habitats. Spanning 1.5 million acres, it serves as a sanctuary for a remarkable variety of plants and animals, some of which are endangered, such as the Florida panther and the American crocodile.

Where is Everglades National Park?

You’ll find this incredible ecological treasure at Florida’s southern tip, stretching all the way from the Gulf of Mexico to Florida Bay. Major cities like Miami and Fort Lauderdale are close, making the park highly accessible.

Why Visit in January?

The Everglades is a year-round hotspot, but January offers some special perks. As part of the dry season, the weather is milder, the mosquitoes are fewer, and the experience is generally more enjoyable. But a heads-up: this is peak season, so it can get busy.

Weather in January

January provides a reprieve from Florida’s usual sweltering heat, boasting pleasant highs of around 77°F (25°C) and cooler evenings with lows of around 53°F (12°C).

Best Things to Do in Everglades National Park

Bike Through Shark Valley: Take a leisurely 15-mile bike ride along the loop trail in Shark Valley. Don’t let the name fool you; it’s alligators you’ll likely see, not sharks. Be sure to stop at the observation tower for panoramic views.

Walk the Anhinga Trail: This less-than-a-mile loop trail winds through a sawgrass marsh, offering chances to see alligators, turtles, and various bird species like anhingas and herons.

Visit “Robert is Here”: Just outside the park, this iconic Florida fruit stand has been a must-visit for decades. Get a delicious, exotic fruit smoothie whipped up by Robert himself.

Know Before You Go

Multiple Entry Points: The park offers various entrances—Homestead for Flamingo Visitor Center and Royal Palm, Shark Valley with its iconic landscapes, and Ernest F. Coe, which leads to the Anhinga Trail.

Airboats are Essential: To see most of the park, you’ll need an airboat—a flat-bottomed vessel with a big fan on the back. Official tour providers include Coopertown Airboats, Everglades Safari Park, and Gator Park.

Skip the Swim: Sure, the waters might look serene, but they’re teeming with all sorts of critters you don’t want to bump into—think alligators, crocodiles, and snakes. So, it’s best to admire from a safe distance.

Learn more about Everglades National Park
Blog post
7 FUN things to do in the Everglades (Florida)

YouTube video
The BEST day at Everglades National Park! 🐊 (Hiking, biking, milkshakes, & MORE)

About the author

This monthly national park series was written by our writer Nicoll, using our monthly lists and incorporating our experiences at each park. Learn a bit about her below!

I’m Nicoll, an adventurous soul fueled by hiking, dirt biking, and traveling. When I’m not busy crafting captivating tales, you’ll find me exploring the world alongside my partner-in-adventure, Jake. Back in 2019, our insatiable wanderlust led us to embrace the nomadic lifestyle with our fearless pack of canine sidekicks, including a mid-content wolf dog. You can catch my adventures and musings on livingtinywithawolf.com. 

ready to explore the national parks?

Pin this guide with the best National Parks to visit in January to plan your adventure!