The parks of the American West are usually associated with summer. Yet winter gives them a completely different face: snow-dusted canyons, geysers steaming in the cold, wildlife easy to spot and almost nobody on the trails. A different kind of trip for lovers of rare atmospheres.
Yellowstone in winter
From December to March, Yellowstone becomes a white world. Most roads are closed to cars: the park is explored by snowcoach or snowmobile with a guide, from West Yellowstone or Gardiner. Old Faithful steams in the icy air, and bison, elk and sometimes wolves are easy to spot on the snow, especially in the Lamar Valley.
Utah's parks under snow
The hoodoos of Bryce Canyon dusted with white, the red arches of Arches against the snow: the contrast is spectacular. The main roads usually remain open, and the parks can be combined with one or more days of skiing in Utah's resorts, famous for their powder snow.
Preparing your winter trip
- Warm gear: layers, hat, gloves and suitable shoes. Temperatures can drop very low, especially in Yellowstone.
- Suitable vehicle: in Utah, a car with appropriate tyres is recommended; in Yellowstone, guided excursions take over.
- Flexible itinerary: the weather may require small changes, so allow some margin.
- Book early: few lodgings are open in Yellowstone in winter.
When to go?
January to March for Yellowstone, and December to March for Utah. The February half-term holidays are an ideal time to combine parks and skiing.
Your adviser builds this winter trip with you, self-drive or in a small escorted group.
