Discover top places to hike in February with great weather across the U.S. in our guide!
Say goodbye to winter’s chill and hello to the sunny trails across America’s hiking havens this February. Imagine traversing through Arizona’s mystical deserts or Florida’s lush greenery, where the winter wardrobe is optional, and the adventure is mandatory.
Pack light — just the essentials like water, snacks, and maybe a hat — and get ready to embrace the balmy breezes on your face. We’ve pinpointed the best trails that promise you pleasant weather and scenic views, perfect for every level of hiker.
Whether you’re here for a serene walk or a challenging climb, you’re sure to find your February adventure from Texas to New Mexico. So, lace up those hiking boots, it’s time to discover America’s warm winter wonders!
Big Bend National Park, Texas
If you’re looking to escape the cold this winter and get in some quality hiking time, head down to Big Bend National Park in Texas. With over 800 miles of trails, there’s something for everyone – whether you’re a beginner or an experienced hiker. And since the average February temperature is a mild 68 degrees Fahrenheit, you’ll be able to comfortably enjoy all that the park has to offer.
The park is so vast and empty that it’s easy to forget that you’re just a few hours away from any major city. But that’s what makes it such a special place to hike – you can really immerse yourself in nature and find peace and quiet amongst the stunning landscapes.
Read More: Big Bend National Park Camping
Whether you want to go on a short day hike or an overnight backpacking trip, Big Bend National Park is the perfect place to do it. So don’t let the cold weather keep you from getting outside – head down to Texas and enjoy some quality time in nature!
Black Bear Wilderness Area, Florida
The Black Bear Wilderness Area in Florida is a great place to hike during the winter months. The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including black bears, which are often seen roaming the woods.
The trails in the area are well-marked and offer a variety of difficulty levels, making it a great place for both experienced and novice hikers. There are also plenty of places to rest and take in the scenery, so you can make your hike as long or short as you like.
If you’re looking for a unique experience, consider camping in the Black Bear Wilderness Area. The area is full of lush forests and plenty of places to pitch a tent. Camping can be a great way to get away from it all and enjoy the peace and quiet of nature.
There are also many opportunities for fishing and other outdoor activities in the area, so no matter what you’re looking for, Black Bear Wilderness Area is sure to provide an unforgettable experience.
Florida Trail, Aucilla Sinks, Florida
The Florida Trail is a 1,300-mile (2,092-kilometer) National Scenic Trail that runs from Big Cypress National Preserve in South Florida to Gulf Islands National Seashore near Pensacola. Aucilla Sinks is one section of the trail that is particularly beautiful this time of year.
Located in the Big Bend region of Florida, Aucilla Sinks features crystal-clear waters and sinkholes that are perfect for swimming and exploring. Hiking the Florida Trail is a great way to experience the beauty of Florida while getting some exercise!
You can access the Aucilla Sinks section of the Florida Trail from US 19 near Monticello, FL. Be sure to bring plenty of supplies as there are no facilities here and you may find yourself spending the night in this serene environment.
While there are no marked trails, visitors can explore the area by wading through the shallow pools or paddling a canoe down one of the meandering creeks. You may even spot some alligators or other wildlife along your journey!
Zion National Park, Utah
In Zion National Park, winter is a beautiful time to explore the red rock cliffs and canyons. The park offers many trails for all levels of hikers, from easy walks to more challenging hikes. When deciding which trail to take, be sure to check the conditions and closures before heading out.
In the winter months, Zion is known for its occasional snow and ice.
Visitors should be prepared for these conditions with appropriate gear such as a hat and gloves, waterproof boots, and traction devices like Yaktrax or micro spikes. When hiking in icy or snowy conditions it’s also important to watch for slippery rocks or uneven terrain.
Read More: Our favorite hiking trails in Zion National including the weeping rocks!
In addition to the trails, there are also several scenic drives available to explore. Scenic Drive along Kolob Canyons offers magnificent views of the area while Zion Canyon Scenic Drive has numerous pullouts and overlooks that provide excellent photo opportunities. In the winter months, visitors should take extra caution if driving on icy roads due to potential high winds.
Winter can be a great time to visit Zion National Park if you’re looking for a peaceful outdoor experience away from the summer crowds. Be sure to bring appropriate clothing and gear and check trail conditions before heading out!
Death Valley, California
Death Valley, California is one of America’s most popular places to hike. The national park boasts over 3 million acres of hiking trails, and the average temperature in February is a balmy 70 degrees.
Whether you’re looking for a challenging hike up Mt. Whitney or an easy stroll through the desert, Death Valley has something for everyone.
The park is home to several interesting features, such as the Badwater Basin salt flats, the Mesquite Sand Dunes, the Racetrack playa, and several other geological wonders. There are also plenty of camping opportunities in Death Valley, as well as a wide variety of wildlife.
With so much to explore and experience, Death Valley is an excellent destination for hikers and nature lovers alike.
Read More: Hikes in Death Valley
Whether you’re looking for a family outing or a backcountry adventure, Death Valley has something to offer. With its stunning landscapes, fascinating geological features and diverse wildlife, it’s easy to see why this California park is such a popular destination.
Joshua Tree National Park, California
Joshua Tree National Park is a desert oasis located in southeastern California. The park is named for the unique Joshua Trees that grow in the area. February is a great time to visit Joshua Tree National Park for hiking. The temperatures are mild and the scenery is beautiful.
There are plenty of trails to explore, ranging from easy strolls to challenging hikes. Some of the most popular trails include Barker Dam Trail, Lost Horse Mine Trail, and Quail Mountain Trail.
Read More: Joshua Tree Camping
There are several campgrounds situated near the main entrances of the park, all offering breathtaking views of the surrounding desert landscape. Camping is also a great way to spot some of the wildlife that calls Joshua Tree home, including roadrunners, coyotes, and bighorn sheep. With its stunning beauty and plenty of outdoor activities, Joshua Tree National Park is a must-visit destination in California’s Mojave Desert.
Congaree National Park, South Carolina
There’s more to the American South than just ski slopes! If you’re looking to escape the cold and go on a hiking adventure, Congaree National Park in South Carolina is the place for you. This park is home to some of the tallest trees in the Eastern United States, as well as diverse wildlife and plant life.
The best time to hike here is in February, when the temperatures are mild and there are fewer crowds. There are over 25 miles of trails to explore, so you can find one that’s perfect for your fitness level. And if you’re lucky, you might even spot an alligator or two!
Read More: Things to do in Congaree National Park
Whatever you decide to do, Congaree National Park is an amazing place to explore. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful retreat or an exciting adventure, this park offers something for everyone. So don’t forget your camera—you’ll want to capture all of the beauty!
Bryce Canyon National Park, Arizona
February is a great time to get outside and enjoy some hiking, especially in places that are typically too hot to hike during the summer months. Bryce Canyon National Park in Arizona is one of those places. With its high desert location, Bryce Canyon sees daytime temperatures in the 50s and 60s during February, making it perfect for a day of hiking.
The park has a variety of trails to choose from, ranging from easy walks to more strenuous hikes. No matter what your fitness level, you can find a trail that’s right for you. And the views are simply incredible. From the hoodoos (the park’s unique rock formations) to the diverse array of plants and animals, there’s plenty to see on a hike through Bryce Canyon National Park.
Read More: Breathtaking Hikes in Bryce Canyon National Park
In February, the park is also a great place for wildlife photography. There are numerous species of birds that migrate through the area during this time of year, so keep your eyes peeled for hawks and other raptors soaring overhead.
Finally, don’t forget to dress appropriately. The desert can get quite chilly in February, so make sure you bring plenty of layers and wear sturdy shoes or boots.
Kisatchie national forest, Louisiana
February is a great time to hit the trails in Kisatchie National Forest! With average highs in the mid-60s and lows in the upper 40s, the weather is perfect for spending a day outside. And with over 628,000 acres of forest to explore, there’s no shortage of places to go hiking.
There are over 160 miles of trails in Kisatchie National Forest, ranging from easy nature walks to strenuous backpacking trips. Some of our favorite hikes include:
• The Big Island Loop Trail, which takes you through a variety of ecosystems including hardwood forests, cypress swamps, and bayous.
• The Catahoula Trail, which follows an old railroad bed and passes by several lakes.
• The Longleaf Vista Nature Trail, which offers stunning views of the forest from atop a sandstone ridge.
• The Wilderness Trail, which winds through pine and hardwood forests.
No matter which trail you choose, you’re sure to experience the incredible beauty of Kisatchie National Forest.
Gila National Forest, New Mexico
Gila National Forest is located in southwest New Mexico and offers over 3 million acres of public land to explore. The forest is home to the Gila Wilderness, the first designated wilderness area in the United States.
There are numerous trails to hike throughout the forest, and February is a great time to go since there are fewer crowds and the temperatures are mild. Some popular trails include the Catwalk National Recreation Trail, which follows an old mining ditch along a canyon rim, and the Continental Divide National Scenic Trail, which runs for 3,100 miles from Mexico to Canada.
If you’re looking for adventure, there are many opportunities for camping, hunting, fishing, horseback riding and off-roading. There are also hot springs and other natural attractions to explore. The Gila National Forest is home to a variety of wildlife including mountain lions, black bears, elk and wild turkeys.
The best way to experience the beauty of Gila National Forest is by taking in the views from its numerous scenic overlooks. One popular spot is the Mogollon Rim which offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and forests. For an even more immersive experience, visitors can take one of the many Jeep tours available which offer access to areas not normally accessible by foot or car.
No matter what activities you choose to do while visiting Gila National Forest, you will be sure to have a memorable experience!
Conclusion
February is the perfect time to get out and enjoy some of America’s warmer climates. With our list of ten great places for hiking, you can find something that suits all your needs: from scenic mountain trails to lush forests and desert landscapes.
Whether you’re looking for a weekend getaway or just wanting to explore somewhere new, these hikes offer something special for everyone. So grab your gear and head out into the wilderness!
No matter which hiking trail you choose, make sure to prepare for your trip. Check the weather forecast and make sure you’re dressed properly for the conditions. Bring plenty of water and snacks, a first-aid kit, a map and compass, and any other gear you might need.
Be sure to stay on designated trails and follow all the rules of the park or forest where you are hiking. With proper preparation and these tips in mind, you’ll be ready to enjoy some safe and memorable outdoor adventures this February!
