Yet heat-seeking sightseers are missing what might be the parks best-kept secret: winter.
For other parks, winteristhe high season.
November through March, snowpack permitting, join a ranger-ledfull moon hikeon snowshoes provided by the National Park Service.
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Or time your visit during a new moon phase for world-class stargazing beneath some of the Wests darkest skies.
The mild temperatures make hiking on dusty trails, rolling dunes, and salt flats comfortable.
Now imagine seeing the fiery sandstone and surrounding evergreen trees with a layer of fresh snow.
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The winter scenery at this Natural Wonder of the World is absolutely magical.
Ambitious early risers can climb Cadillac Mountain to catch the sunrise.
Keep this in mind when you’re trying to snag one of the first-come, first-served campsites.
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Haleakala National Park, Hawaii
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Winter is one of Maui’s busiest tourist seasons.
Seeing first light from the top of Haleakala is a must-have experience in any season.
These parks are also great for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing.
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On free, ranger-led snowshoe walks, shoes are even provided.
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