Winter Is the Best Time to Visit These National Parks

Winter might not be the obvious season for a national park trip, but for many parks, it’s actually the best time to go. Cooler temperatures, fewer crowds, and dramatic seasonal landscapes can completely change the experience. In desert and tropical parks, winter brings relief from summer heat. In colder regions, snow transforms familiar trails into something quieter and more striking.

From Hawaii to Utah, these national parks shine brightest when the crowds thin and winter sets in.

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G O L F

Inside Scottsdale’s Best Golf, According to Local Pros

Scottsdale’s golf courses are carved directly into the Sonoran Desert, with fairways winding past granite boulders, saguaro forests, and wide-open skies. Winter is peak season here, making it the perfect time to experience some of the area’s best courses.

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G U I D E

Snowshoeing Is Easier and More Fun Than You Thought

No lessons required, minimal gear, and access to quiet forests and open landscapes make it far more approachable than most winter sports. Here’s how to get started.

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T R A V E L

See Huge Waterfalls and 1,000-Foot Cliffs at Mexico's Sumidero Canyon

Sumidero Canyon in Chiapas is one of Mexico’s most dramatic natural wonders, with towering cliffs, lush jungle, and waterfalls that plunge into the river below. While hiking is popular, the best way to experience the canyon is by boat, gliding past sheer rock walls and cascading falls.

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O U T D O O R

Rockford Is an Outdoor Haven Perfect for a Weekend Escape From Chicago

Rockford may not be the first place that comes to mind for a Midwest getaway, but with more than 10,000 acres of protected land and dozens of forest preserves, it’s an easy weekend escape for hiking, kayaking, and outdoor adventures.

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The Matador Editorial Team