Discover Parks & Wildlife contains affiliate links and is a member of the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program. If you make a purchase using one of the Amazon links (or other affiliate links), we may receive compensation at no extra cost to you. See our disclosure policy for more information.
11 Treacherous National Park Trails That Will Make You Think Twice In Winter
Winter hiking – sounds dreamy, right? Crisp air, snow-dusted trails, and views so stunning they belong on a holiday card. But before you lace up your boots and skip out the door, let’s get real for a second.
Some of the most iconic national park trails in winter are less “peaceful strolls” and more “survive nature’s obstacle course.” Think icy paths that could double as skating rinks and slopes with an attitude (hello, avalanches).
But don’t let that scare you off; just come prepared. And today, we are covering some of those trails that get a winter makeover, transforming into beautiful yet challenging adventures. So, grab your gear, your grit, and maybe a little extra courage. You’ll need them all.
Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks, California
The High Sierra Trail is gorgeous in summer and downright beastly in winter. Picture this: you’re trudging through thigh-deep snow, the trail disguised under layers of white fluff, while avalanches loom like nature’s booby traps.
Don’t even think about summiting without crampons, sturdy poles, and perhaps a group rescue plan (yes, seriously). And for goodness’ sake, check the avalanche forecast before starting – unless you’re keen on a sled ride you didn’t sign up for.
Mount Rainier National Park, Washington
If you enjoy the thrill of unpredictable weather, the Wonderland Trail in winter will have you gripping your thermos in terror. Sudden snow squalls blanket the already treacherous path, and don’t forget about those cheerful avalanches.
Pro tip? Layers, layers, layers – because you’ll go from barely sweating to freezing your socks off in minutes. Oh, and keep your GPS handy, because this isn’t the time for aimless wandering through a whiteout.
Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona
The Bright Angel Trail. Sounds like a dream, doesn’t it? But throw in icy switchbacks and those heart-stopping drop-offs, and suddenly, it’s less “dreamy hike” and more “adventure movie stunt scene.” Sure, the views are postcard-perfect, but they come with a serious side of “uh, maybe don’t look down.”
Do yourself a favor and grab some traction cleats – your ankles will thank you. And maybe skip the edge-of-the-cliff selfies. One rogue gust of wind, and it may not be just your phone on its journey to the canyon floor.
Yosemite National Park, California
Mist Trail in winter? Oh, it’s a whole mood – icy waterfalls, bone-chilling breezes, and the occasional snow-smothered rockfall masquerading as a harmless “thud.” It’s nature’s way of keeping you on your toes (or on your rear, if you’re not careful).
Waterproof boots are non-negotiable, and trekking poles? They’re not just gear – they’re your trusty sidekicks, saving you from an unplanned audition for the Winter Olympics’ luge team.
Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, Michigan
Deep snow, frozen waterfalls, and trail markers playing an epic game of hide-and-seek – welcome to winter on the Chapel Loop Trail, where “remote” really means “good luck out there.” Snacks? Essential. Extra layers? Non-negotiable. Because if things go south, let’s just say rescuers might not be in a rush.
But oh, the payoff. Ice formations so magical that they could easily pass as Narnia’s winter collection. The downside? You might feel like a human popsicle by the end. But hey, isn’t that part of the charm?
Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado
Longs Peak Trail in winter isn’t just a hike – it’s a crash course in survival with Mother Nature as your unrelenting instructor. Imagine avalanches, winds that could knock over a linebacker, and temps so cold your water bottle freezes mid-sip. Fun, right?
And if you’re bold enough to take it on, do yourself a favor: invest in gear that’s basically superhero-level and make sure someone knows your plans.
Zion National Park, Utah
Angels Landing in winter? Let’s just say that it’s a mix of comedy and horror you didn’t know you signed up for. The infamous chains? Now frosty little handrails daring you to hold on. Those narrow paths? Slicker than a buttered pan.
Microspikes are your winter BFFs here, but don’t let them give you a false sense of confidence – one wrong step, and you’ll be “soaring” in the most unplanned way possible. It’s equally breathtaking and nerve-wracking.
Glacier National Park, Montana
Nothing says “epic winter adventure” quite like gingerly tiptoeing through avalanche zones, right? The Highline Trail this time of year is not messing around – enjoy freezing winds sharp enough to cut through even your puffiest jacket. It’s the kind of cold that makes you question every life choice that brought you here.
Keep a close eye on that weather report (seriously, check it again), and whatever you do, stick to the trail. Unless, of course, you’re auditioning to be the star of your own survival saga – then by all means, wander off.
Denali National Park, Alaska
Everything in Alaska has a flair for the dramatic, and the Mount Healy Overlook Trail is no exception. We’re talking temps that could freeze your soul, snow so deep it practically mocks your boots, and the occasional moose giving you the side-eye like you’re trespassing on its personal runway.
Layer up like you’re heading out for a space expedition, and maybe consider snowshoes. Unless trudging through knee-deep drifts is your idea of cardio. It’s wild, it’s challenging, and it’s 100% worth it.
Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Tennessee & North Carolina
Winter on the Alum Cave Trail is really something else. One second, you’re gawking at a frozen waterfall that looks like it belongs in a winter fairy tale, and the next, you’re clinging to the side of the mountain like it’s your long-lost soulmate.
The key to surviving this frosty escapade? Yaktrax and a sense of humor. Trust me, slipping your way down a trail is way more tolerable when you can laugh at yourself.
Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming
If snowy adventures were an Olympic event, the Garnet Canyon Trail would snag gold without breaking a sweat. Just picture deep snow, bone-chilling temps, and avalanche risks that don’t exactly scream “cozy weekend stroll,” and you’ll get the idea.
Add layers like you’re starring in a winter fashion show, brush up on your avalanche safety skills, and check your gear like your life depends on it (because, well, it might). This isn’t just a hike; it’s a frosty proving ground for the bold, the brave, and maybe the slightly unhinged.
Like Our Content? Follow Us on MSN (or click the Follow Button above) for more from Discover Parks & Wildlife.
12 National Parks That Partially Close Every Winter
Ever wonder which National Parks play hard to get every winter? Click here and find out…before they ghost you till spring!
11 Wintery National Park Units That Welcome Snowmobiling This Season
Bet you didn’t know these National Park units are rolling out the snowy red carpet for snowmobiles. Hop on and take a ride.
14 National Parks With The Best Winter Stargazing
Bundle up, look up, and get ready to chase the ultimate winter glow. It’s time to find out where the stars truly shine.
