The Most Dangerous US National Parks in Winter

Exploring the majestic beauty of U.S. national parks in winter can be an unforgettable experience. Snow-draped trees, serene landscapes, and quieter trails offer a unique allure. However, winter also brings its own set of dangers, with harsh weather conditions and challenging terrains turning some parks into high-risk destinations. Here are the most dangerous U.S. national parks to visit during winter and why caution is essential for those planning a trip.

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1. Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks Winter Safety

• Winter Deaths: 12.19 per 10 million visitors
• Why It’s Dangerous:
  These iconic parks in California’s Sierra Nevada are breathtaking, with towering ancient trees like the General Sherman Tree and General Grant Tree. However, winter brings icy trails, freezing temperatures, and treacherous roads. Falls are the leading cause of death, with motor vehicle crashes not far behind.
• Visitor Tip: Always check road conditions, carry tire chains, and avoid risky hikes without proper gear.

We enjoy visiting Sequoia and Kings Canyon in late Spring and Summer. Read our post about the Sequoia National Park scenic drive and the best viewpoints.

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Winter Fun at Mount Ranier National Park

2. Mount Rainier National Park Winter Safety

• Winter Deaths: 8.55 per 10 million visitors
• Why It’s Dangerous:
  Home to the imposing Mount Rainier, this park challenges even seasoned climbers. Avalanches, falls, and unpredictable weather conditions make it a high-risk area.
• Visitor Tip: Attempt climbs only if you are highly experienced and equipped for extreme conditions. Guided tours are a safer alternative.

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3. Lake Mead National Recreation Area Winter Safety

• Winter Deaths: 6.23 per 10 million visitors
• Why It’s Dangerous:
  Despite its mild desert winter weather, Lake Mead sees a high number of drowning incidents and motor vehicle accidents. Its expansive hiking trails and rugged terrain also pose risks for unprepared visitors.
• Visitor Tip: Avoid water activities during storms and follow safety precautions when hiking.

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4. Death Valley National Park Winter Safety

• Winter Deaths: 5.87 per 10 million visitors
• Why It’s Dangerous:
  Known as the hottest place on Earth, Death Valley also brings dangers in winter. With limited resources and vast, remote terrain, even a minor mishap can become life-threatening. Motor vehicle crashes are the most common cause of fatalities.
• Visitor Tip: Stay hydrated, plan your route carefully, and inform someone of your itinerary.

Though Death Valley ranks on the list for winter safety concerns, it is our favorite time of year to visit the park. Read our post on Why January is the Best Time To Visit Death Valley National Park.

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5. Grand Canyon National Park Winter Safety

• Winter Deaths: 5.45 per 10 million visitors
• Why It’s Dangerous:
  The Grand Canyon’s icy trails and steep cliffs become particularly hazardous in winter. Falls and medical emergencies are the leading causes of death.
• Visitor Tip: Wear traction devices on your shoes, dress warmly, and avoid the edge during icy conditions.

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Other Notable Parks with High Winter Risks

• Yosemite National Park (5.23 deaths/10M): Known for its granite cliffs and waterfalls, winter accidents often involve icy roads and challenging climbs.
• Mojave National Preserve (4.36 deaths/10M): Motor vehicle crashes and harsh desert conditions pose dangers.
• Cape Hatteras National Seashore (4.35 deaths/10M): High drowning rates make its coastal waters treacherous.

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Why Winter Is Riskier

According to research by John Foy & Associates, many winter deaths in national parks are due to falls, motor vehicle crashes, and drowning. Parks in California, such as Sequoia & Kings Canyon, Death Valley, and Yosemite, are especially impacted by winter weather. Harsh conditions, icy trails, and poor visibility increase risks significantly.

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Staying Safe in Winter Parks

Visiting national parks in winter can be rewarding if done safely. Here’s how to minimize risks:

1. Plan Ahead: Research weather forecasts and trail conditions before your visit.
2. Gear Up: Wear appropriate winter clothing and carry gear like crampons or tire chains.
3. Know Your Limits: Avoid challenging trails if you lack experience or proper equipment.
4. Stay Informed: Notify someone about your itinerary and carry a map or GPS device.
5. Stay on the Trail: Avoid venturing off marked paths to reduce the risk of falls.

Top 10 U.S. National Parks Ranked By Number of Winter Deaths

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Top 10 U.S. national parks ranked by the number of winter deaths per 10 million visitors 

Rank	National Park	Winter Deaths per 10 Million Visitors	Key Causes of Death
1	Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks	12.19	Falls, motor vehicle crashes
2	Mount Rainier National Park	8.55	Falls
3	Lake Mead National Recreation Area	6.23	Drowning, motor vehicle crashes
4	Death Valley National Park	5.87	Motor vehicle crashes
5	Grand Canyon National Park	5.45	Medical, falls
6	Yosemite National Park	5.23	Medical, motor vehicle crashes
7	Mojave National Preserve	4.36	Motor vehicle crashes
8	Cape Hatteras National Seashore	4.35	Drowning
9	Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area	4.24	Drowning
10	Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore	4.04	Drowning

Alternatives for Winter Adventures

If you’re not ready for the risks of these dangerous parks, consider safer destinations like Cape Cod National Seashore or historical sites such as Independence National Historical Park. These spots offer winter charm without extreme hazards.

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Whether you’re marveling at snow-covered forests or climbing icy cliffs, winter in national parks demands respect and preparation. By understanding the risks and taking precautions, you can enjoy these natural wonders while staying safe.

Thanks for reading our article. Happy travels and we hope to see you at the places where we go!
Julie & Art

Sources:

• U.S. National Park Service mortality data  

• National Park Service Annual Visitation Report 

• National Mall & Memorial Parks visitation numbers 

• Presidio of San Francisco visitation numbers 

• Anacostia Park visitation numbers 

Methodology:

Mortality data was gathered from the U.S. National Park Service from 2007 to 2023. The incidents were categorized according to date, with any incidents between 1 November and 28 February for each year being considered, or 29 February if it was a leap year. 

Average visitation numbers were then gathered for the period covered. 

The parks were then ranked by the highest number of winter deaths per 10 million visitors. 

Any parks with less than 10 million total visitors between 2007 and 2023 were excluded. Homicide and suicide deaths were also removed from the statistics for winter deaths.