Winter can be a magical time to visit U.S. national parks, fewer crowds, snow-covered landscapes, and dramatic scenery. But colder temperatures also bring seasonal closures. Roads, campgrounds, visitor centers, and even entire park sections may shut down for safety reasons. If you’re planning a winter trip, knowing which parks partially close, and what stays open, can help you plan smarter and avoid surprises.
Yellowstone National Park
Many roads close to regular vehicles in winter due to heavy snow. Access is often limited to snowcoaches or snowmobiles, while some entrances and visitor services remain open.
Rocky Mountain National Park
Trail Ridge Road, the park’s highest highway, closes for most of winter. Lower-elevation areas and select trails remain accessible, but weather can change conditions quickly.
Yosemite National Park
High-elevation roads, including Tioga Road, shut down due to snow. Tire chains may be required, and some campgrounds and trails close seasonally.
Glacier National Park
Much of Going-to-the-Sun Road closes in winter. Visitor access is limited to lower sections, though snowshoeing and cross-country skiing are popular.
Mount Rainier National Park
Winter storms often close roads and facilities. Paradise areas may be open on certain days, but chain requirements and temporary closures are common.
Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks
Snow leads to road closures and chain controls. Some areas stay open, but access to higher elevations and backcountry routes is limited.
Zion National Park
While Zion stays more accessible than snow-heavy parks, icy conditions can close trails like Angels Landing, and shuttle services may operate on limited schedules.
Bryce Canyon National Park
Snowfall can temporarily close roads and viewpoints. Some scenic drives and trails reopen quickly, but winter conditions often restrict full access.
Grand Teton National Park
Several roads close in winter, limiting access to certain viewpoints. Winter recreation like snowshoeing and wildlife viewing remains popular.
Lassen Volcanic National Park
Heavy snow shuts down the main park highway. Visitor facilities and campgrounds are mostly closed, with limited winter access for snow travel.
Great Basin National Park
High-altitude roads close due to snow, including access to Wheeler Peak areas. Lower sections of the park typically remain open year-round.
Acadia National Park
Many park roads close to vehicles in winter, but are open for walking, skiing, and snowshoeing. Visitor services operate on reduced schedules.
