As a crisp chill fills the air, one thing is certain, prime hiking season is just around the corner. While many consider spring and summer the best times to explore the trails, winter has its unique charm. From serene, snow-covered forests to peaceful candlelit strolls and crowd-free canyon adventures, the colder months offer unforgettable hiking experiences across the U.S.
So, lace up your boots, grab your snowshoes and poles, and embrace the season with the 11 best winter hiking trails in the USA. Let’s explore with National Park Shops team!
Contents
- 1 Apex Park Loop, Golden, Colorado
- 2 Jud Wiebe Trail in Telluride, Colorado
- 3 Cumberland Trail in Cumberland Trail State Park, Tennessee
- 4 Gorham Mountain Loop in Acadia National Park, Maine
- 5 Yosemite Valley Loop Trail, Yosemite National Park, California
- 6 Sterling Pond and Long Trail, Stowe, Vermont
- 7 Garden of the Gods, Colorado Springs, Colorado
- 8 Best Winter Hiking Trails in The USA for Beginners: Big Tree Trail, Sequoia National Park, California
- 9 Apostle Islands Lake Shore, Wisconsin
- 10 Rim to Rim to Rim, Grand Canyon
- 11 Rose River Falls, Shenandoah National Park, Virginia
- 12 Conclusion
Apex Park Loop, Golden, Colorado
- Length: 5.5 miles
- Difficulty: Moderate
You don’t have to venture far to step into a winter wonderland with a pair of snowshoes. Just 30 minutes from the “Mile High City,” Apex Park is one of the best winter hiking trails in the USA with a year-round trail system perfect for snowshoeing and deer viewing. For a scenic 5.5-mile loop, begin on the Argos Trail, then follow Magic Mountain, Enchanted Forest, and Apex trails. The Apex Trail eventually loops back, reconnecting with Magic Mountain to bring you full circle to your starting point.
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Jud Wiebe Trail in Telluride, Colorado
Start this short yet challenging loop trail in the picturesque mountain town of Telluride, one of the best winter hiking trails in the USA. When you reach the top, you’ll have a perfect vantage point to watch skiers carving down the slopes. While Telluride is famous for its snowfall, this roughly three-mile trail stays relatively dry throughout winter, thanks to Colorado’s abundant sunshine. However, if you visit after a heavy snowfall, gear up with microspikes and warm layers, the trail is just as stunning when blanketed in fresh powder.
>> Read More: How To Layer Clothes For Winter: Guide for Cold Weather
Cumberland Trail in Cumberland Trail State Park, Tennessee
The Cumberland Trail, still under construction and currently spanning over 260 miles, will eventually stretch 300 miles across Tennessee from north to south. As one of the best winter hiking trails in the USA, this scenic route offers a peaceful escape in the Cumberland Mountains when the crowds thin out during the colder months.
If you have a full day to explore, tackle the 9.5-mile Possum Creek Gorge section, where you’ll be treated to breathtaking waterfalls along a picturesque, forested creek. This trail is part of the Three Gorges Segment, a continuous 30.7-mile stretch of the Cumberland Trail.
Gorham Mountain Loop in Acadia National Park, Maine
Maine offers more than just golden summers filled with lobster rolls and double-scoop ice cream cones. While winter brings a chill, it also clears out popular trails like the Gorham Mountain Loop in Acadia National Park, making it one of the best winter hiking trails in the USA for those seeking solitude. This season transforms the coastal landscape into a serene wonderland, allowing hikers to experience breathtaking views of the rugged shoreline and distant Cadillac Mountain without the usual crowds.
For this demanding 3.5-mile loop with uneven terrain, be sure to bring snowshoes or cross-country skis. These will help you stay atop the snow as you navigate through dense spruce forests and across icy granite slabs.
Yosemite Valley Loop Trail, Yosemite National Park, California
- Length: 11.5 miles
- Difficulty: Moderate
Yosemite ranks among the most visited national parks in the U.S., and in peak summer months, the Yosemite Valley Loop is packed with adventurers eager to catch a glimpse of Sentinel Rock, Cathedral Rocks, and the towering El Capitan. However, in winter, this iconic trail transforms into a peaceful escape, making it one of the best winter hiking trails in the USA. Visit in the morning, and you might have the entire route to yourself. The full loop spans nearly 12 miles, but for a shorter trek, the half-loop option covers 7.2 miles.
Although much of the trail is flat and paved, icy and snowy patches are common. Snowshoes or ice cleats are a smart addition to your gear, but at the very least, opt for snow boots with solid traction. Also, be sure to pack a water bottle and snacks, as there are no rest stops along the way.
Sterling Pond and Long Trail, Stowe, Vermont
- Length: 6 miles
- Difficulty: Difficult
Enjoy a peaceful afternoon snowshoeing along this secluded trail, where you’re likely to have the entire route to yourself. Smugglers’ Notch, named after the smugglers who once navigated this rugged mountain pass to transport supplies between the U.S. and Canada, is now a must-visit destination for winter adventurers.
As one of the best winter hiking trails in the USA, this narrow passage, flanked by towering 1,000-foot cliffs, offers a breathtaking and remote experience. The trail does feature some steep sections, so having prior snowshoeing experience is recommended for a smoother journey.
Garden of the Gods, Colorado Springs, Colorado
- Length: 1 – 10 miles
- Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Daria Bachmann, founder and CEO of the popular travel blog Discovery Nut, highlights Garden of the Gods in Colorado Springs as one of the best winter hiking trails in the USA. Located about an hour and twenty minutes south of Denver, this breathtaking spot offers a variety of trails suited for all skill levels.
The three-mile Chambers/Bretag/Palmer Trail loops around most of the park, providing a quieter escape into the rocky landscape, while the Perkins Central Garden Trail is a 1.5-mile, family-friendly route leading to the base of the tallest rock formations. Many of its trails are paved and relatively flat, making them accessible even in winter shoes. The park offers free entry, but arrive early to avoid the crowds at one of this best winter hiking trails in the USA location.
Best Winter Hiking Trails in The USA for Beginners: Big Tree Trail, Sequoia National Park, California
- Length: 1.3-mile loop
- Difficulty: Easy
One of the best winter hiking trails in the USA, the Big Tree Trail in Sequoia National Park, is a 1.3-mile loop that becomes even more enchanting in winter. While the towering sequoias are stunning year-round, winter transforms the landscape as snow drapes over their massive branches and carpets the forest floor.
It’s an easy hike even in winter since it’s a raised boardwalk that the National Park maintains throughout the season. No need for snowshoes, though using microspikes or Yaktrax is a smart choice since the altitude in Sequoia National Park can lead to icy conditions! Plus, it offers a peaceful escape from the park’s more crowded areas.
Apostle Islands Lake Shore, Wisconsin
- Length: 2 – 6 miles
- Difficulty: Moderate
The Mainland Ice Caves at Apostle Islands National Lakeshore are among the best winter hiking trails in the USA, offering a breathtaking experience when the conditions align – cold temperatures and minimal wind. Each year brings a different spectacle, as the caves’ intricate ice formations depend on how the water interacts with the cliffs during freezing weather. After several weeks of consistent sub-freezing temperatures, park officials assess the ice’s safety for travel. Once deemed safe, adventurous hikers can don warm layers and traverse the frozen surface to explore these stunning natural wonders.
However, this is not a guarantee, so it’s crucial to check the weather conditions and forecasts before embarking on this unique winter hike. Be sure to verify ice stability by visiting the national park’s official page for updates. If conditions are unfavorable for ice trekking, you can still enjoy the beauty of the lakeshore by taking the Lakeshore Trail. This 4.5-mile route offers a challenging hike with rewarding views of Lake Superior.
Rim to Rim to Rim, Grand Canyon
- Length: 44 miles
- Difficulty: Strenuous
One of the best winter hiking trails in the USA is the Rim to Rim to Rim backpacking adventure in the Grand Canyon. During the winter months, the North Rim is inaccessible by vehicle, so the only way to experience it is on foot. Starting at the South Rim, you’ll descend via the South Kaibab Trail, one of the park’s most iconic paths. Although the upper parts of this trail require microspikes in the winter, it’s a small trade-off for avoiding the usual crowds.
As you make your way down into the canyon, temperatures become more moderate. The Bright Angel Campground, located by the Colorado River, offers a scenic and peaceful campsite shaded by large cottonwood trees. On the second day, you’ll trek through the canyon’s floor, passing waterfalls and ancient ruins. Finally, on the third day, you’ll begin your ascent to the North Rim, where you’ll re-enter the wintry conditions.
>> Read More: The 7 Best Snow Gaiters For Hiking, Tested and Review
Rose River Falls, Shenandoah National Park, Virginia
- Length: 4 miles
- Difficulty: Moderate
One of the best winter hiking trails in the USA is the Rose River Falls Trail in Shenandoah National Park, where you can watch waterfalls tumble down a rumbling stream in a designated wilderness area. This 4-mile hike is a year-round favorite, but in the winter, ice forms along the riverbanks, adding an extra layer of beauty. The trail leads to a 67-foot waterfall that continues to flow even in the cold months.
Shenandoah National Park is open year-round, offering hundreds of miles of backcountry hiking options, from frozen waterfalls to rocky summits, as well as a 100+ mile section of the Appalachian Trail along the Blue Ridge Mountains. If you’re hiking after the snow has fallen, keep an eye out for animal tracks, bobcats, white-tailed deer, and owls are active during the winter, and their prints are often visible along the trail.
Conclusion
In conclusion, exploring winter hiking trails in the USA offers a unique and breathtaking way to connect with nature during the colder months. From snow-covered paths in the Rockies to serene, icy landscapes in national parks, the variety of trails available ensures that there’s something for every adventurer. With the right preparation, gear, and mindset, winter hiking can be just as rewarding as any other season. So, whether you’re looking to challenge yourself on rugged terrain or enjoy peaceful, snow-blanketed views, these trails promise unforgettable experiences.
