The winter season brings a new and glittering transformation to landscapes around the world, and national parks that seem familiar can become entirely new destinations under a blanket of snow and ice. If you’re looking to embrace the cold and find beauty in the frost-laden wilderness, here are some of the best national parks to visit in the winter.

1. Yellowstone National Park, USA

Yellowstone in winter becomes a wonderland characterized by steaming geysers and frozen waterfalls. The contrast between the hot springs and the snow-covered ground is like nowhere else on earth. Wildlife watching is especially rewarding in the colder months, with bison, wolves, and elk moving through the crisp terrain.

2. Banff National Park, Canada

Canada’s oldest national park transforms into a snowy playground every winter. Frozen lakes such as Lake Louise become stunning ice skating rinks; ski resorts provide ample slopes for every level of skier; and you can finish your day by soaking in natural hot springs while snowflakes fall around you.

3. Yosemite National Park, USA

Yosemite offers quieter trails in winter and the famous granite cliffs blanketed with snow create an unforgettable sight. Cross-country skiing and snowshoeing are popular activities, or you could simply take in the sights of frozen waterfalls and perhaps catch a ‘firefall’ event when sunset lights up Horsetail Fall.

4. Plitvice Lakes National Park, Croatia

The cascading lakes of Plitvice are breathtaking once they’re frozen, creating a network of icy waterfalls and sparkling tree-lined paths. Fewer visitors in winter mean you can enjoy this snowy paradise with less interruption.

5. Jigokudani Monkey Park (part of Joshinetsu Kogen National Park), Japan

While not an entire national park on its own, Jigokudani is famous for its hot springs and snow monkeys that come to bathe in them during winter months—offering a truly unique wildlife viewing experience.

6. Bryce Canyon National Park, USA

Bryce Canyon’s natural amphitheater of red rock hoodoos look even more striking with a dusting of snow. Hiking might require snowshoes or crampons during this time, but the unmatched views at sunrise or sunset are well worth it.

These are just a handful of national parks that offer an exceptional experience during the wintertime. While visiting any park in this season requires preparation for cold temperatures and snow conditions, the effort is rewarded with serene beauty, unique wildlife encounters, and fewer crowds. Whether on snowshoes or skis or just bundled up for a brisk hike—exploring these natural wonders can be invigorating and inspiring in their wintry attire.