Winter weather transforms the landscape of national parks into an entirely new experience. It creates new recreational opportunities like skiing, sledding, and snowshoeing are available. It also makes roads slippery, reduces visibility, and impacts your vehicle's equipment and operation. Even the most experienced drivers have difficulties navigating these hazardous conditions.
Careful trip planning is essential to avoid becoming stranded on the road. Remember that many parks are located hours from emergency services. Even in urban areas, winter road conditions may delay response for hour or days.
Careful trip planning is essential to avoid becoming stranded on the road. Remember that many parks are located hours from emergency services. Even in urban areas, winter road conditions may delay response for hour or days.
Pro Tip: Let the Park Drive You!
Find out if the park you’re visiting offers shuttles to and around the park. You can focus on the winter landscape while reducing congestion and improving the safety of all roadway users.
Drawing of a park ranger stands on the right in a snowy landscape. Top says Winter Driving Checklist. There are 6 safety tips listed with icons. The icons are described after each associated safety tip.
- Check the weather (cloud with a snow flake and rain drop)
- Plan your route (two points with a curved line between)
- Check park alerts and closures (Triangle warning sign with an exclamation point in the middle)
- Prepare your vehicle for winter (car with a wrench next to it)
- Check tire chain requirements (Tire with chains)
- Pack emergency supplies (flashlight, shovel, water bottle)
Before You Hit the Road
Check the weather
Visit weather.gov and check the park’s weather forecast.Check park alerts and closures
Find the most up to date information about hazards and closed areas in the park that may affect your visit. Some park roads close during the winter season.Check tire chain requirements
Some national parks require that you use tire chains or cables to improve traction in snow and ice. Visit the park’s website to find out its specific requirements.Plan your route
Map out your route to and within the park. Pay attention to any park alerts and closures as they may determine which roads are open and cleared for driving. Be prepared to navigate without your phone as cell service is not always available.Prepare your vehicle for winter
Cold temperatures can reduce tire pressure, weaken battery power, and freeze fluids. Before you leave the house:- Inflate all main and spare tires
- Check battery and make any necessary repairs or replacements
- Replace worn windshield wiper blades
- Use freeze-resistant wiper fluid
- Check defrosters and make any necessary repairs
- Keep the gas tank full to avoid ice in the tank and fuel lines
- Maintain the antifreeze level in the radiator
Pack emergency supplies
These are items that will help you in the event of an emergency:
- Phone, portable charger, and extra batteries
- Extra layer of winter clothing, blankets, or sleeping bags
- Food and water
- Jumper cables, flashlight, flares or emergency markers
- Snow shovel, broom, and ice scraper
- Sand or cat litter for traction in case your vehicle gets stuck in snow or ice
Through the front windshield of a car, snow, fog, and ice are shown covering a rural road. A motorcycle on the road is obscured by fog, and two road signs warn drivers about slippery roads and reduced visibility. Four winter driving tips remind people to drive slowly, to increase following distance, to turn on headlights, and to always wear a seatbelt.
On the Road
Drive slowly
It takes longer to stop on icy or snow-covered roads. Maneuvers like a sudden stop of sharp turn can cause you to lose control of your vehicle. Give yourself time to respond to other roadway users’ actions.
Increase following distance
Increase the distance between you and the vehicle ahead so you’ll have enough time to slow down and stop on slippery roads.
Turn on headlights
Always keep your headlights on, even during the day. It helps you see the road and those around you. It also helps others see your vehicle.
Always wear a seatbelt
Everyone in the vehicle should wear a seat belt. Every trip. All the time. Children should be secured in the appropriate car seat for their age and size.
Share the road
Stay alert for motorcyclists, bicyclists, and pedestrians on the road. Snow, fog, and ice reduce visibility and makes it difficult to spot them. Always yield to bicyclists and pedestrians.
Wear reflective clothing
Motorcyclists and others sharing the road with cars should wear bright, reflective clothing to increase their visibility.
Give space for snowplows
Stay behind the snowplow and keep your distance. Do not pass it. Driving next to a snowplow can cause flying debris to obstruct your view and damage your vehicle.
Additional Resources
Last updated: December 8, 2025