Winter hiking isn’t for everyone. I mean, we think it’s great (maybe you’re just doing it wrong?), but we get that the cold, the additional gear required, the cold, limited services like closed trailhead toilets, and the cold (lol) can be enough to keep some folks from heading outdoors in winter. Fortunately, if you’re looking for where to hike in winter without snow and are willing to travel, there are plenty of options. The general rule of thumb: head south.
Here are some of our favorite U.S. warm winter hiking destinations that aren’t typically as cold as the country’s northern regions. In these places, roads don’t (usually) close because of snow, there are no microspikes or snowshoes required (though cool-weather hiking boots may still be a bonus in some places) and you probably won’t freeze your buns off when you stop for a breather.
5 Warm Weather Hikes for Winter
Big Bend National Park: South Rim Trail
I’ve backpacked in Big Bend National Park near the border of Texas and Mexico several times and it’s always a treat. The desert plants, sunny days, cool nights and sweeping views are a delight any time of year, but since it doesn’t get super cold that far south, you probably won’t freeze your buns off.
The South Rim Trail is a treat and can be done as an overnight or in a day and offers crazy views out over the Chisos Mountains and Mexico. While you’re there, hike to Emory Peak if you’re feeling adventurous. Or to the Windows Trail if heights aren’t your thing.
Why not spend some time in our old stomping grounds, Austin and surrounding Hill Country, while you’re at it. I know the area well and even wrote a hiking guidebook about it!
Catalina Island: Trans Catalina Trail
Catalina island is located a short ferry ride away from Los Angeles, California and it rarely gets inclement winter weather. And because the climate is Mediterranean, plants and wildlife (including bison) abound year-round. I recommend making campground reservations and hiking all or part of the 37-mile Trans Catalina Trail (video link) like I did.
That said, nights can still be cool, so if you plan to camp, bring plenty of cool-weather gear like insulated sleeping pads. And remember to keep your distance from the bison! They’re wild animals, after all. Just don’t forget your camera because the views of the surrounding Pacific Ocean are spectacular. Staying near LA before or after? Check out local’s favorite hikes near LA.
Death Valley National Park
Spanning the border between Nevada and California, we think Death Valley National Park is a truly underrated national park. In fact, between the wide variety of terrains, the mesmerizing landscape and the lighter crowds (especially in winter) it may be one of our favorites.
Again, it’s the desert, so nights can be quite cool, but afternoons can also be fairly warm. You can be reasonably assured there won’t be any snow, but there will be less crowded trails and campgrounds! We recommend hitting the Mesquite Flats Sand Dunes, Golden Canyon and Badlands Loop and the Badwater Basin Salt Flats to start. Then enjoy exploring some slot canyons in the less popular areas of the park!
Las Vegas, Nevada
Las Vegas might not be the first city that pops into your head when you make a mental list of outdoorsy destinations, but trust us, there’s plenty to explore around the bright lights of the city best known for casinos and live entertainment.
We love Red Rock Canyon Conservation Area and Valley of Fire State Park for hiking and were thrilled to explore sandy trails, rocky scrambles, massive formations and slot canyons all in one place. The desert truly is a mystical place (don’t forget your desert hiking essentials!) and hiking opportunities abound. Winter temps are mild and snow is exceedingly rare unless you head up into Spring Mountains National Recreation Area. Find our recommendations for hiking near Las Vegas HERE.
Everglades National Park, Florida
Ok, so this one isn’t technically a hike, but if you don’t mind giving your legs a break and letting your arms do the work for a change, (they asked us to tell you they want in on the fun, too) this is one of our favorite non-hiking adventure trips. It involves paddling out into the Florida Bay to camp on a wooden platform called a chickee (a Seminole term).
We paddled past curious but easily frightened lemon sharks, slept away from the insects, noises and distractions on land, and enjoyed a quiet night completely alone on the water. Brilliant! Read about our experience and tips for planning your own Everglades paddle here. It may be one of the best national parks to go to December through March.
Bottom Line
If typical winter weather isn’t your favorite to hike in, that’s OK; you have plenty of other options right here in the U.S. all winter long.
Going to fly to any of these warm winter hiking destinations? Remember to research what you can carry on and what you need to put in checked luggage in this post. And if you ARE down for some snowy hikes, check out our tips for enjoying winter hikes and some of our favorite winter hikes in places like Aspen and Salt Lake City.
