7 Winter Hiking Destinations for LGBTQ+ RV Owners
We know that some LGBTQ+ travelers prefer to hibernate during the winter and return to the wilderness when the weather warms up. However, the colder months are an ideal time to get outside and go hiking, and queer vacationers enjoy that, too!
There’s nothing quite like hiking through snow-covered trails, breathing in fresh, crisp air, and basking in the peaceful quiet of nature during the winter. If you enjoy RV life and or plan on visiting a few places this winter, RV Trader put together a list of the best winter hiking destinations in the United States, with plenty of campsite recommendations to help you plan your adventure.
Make sure to do plenty of research and book your RV site in advance, as campsites can sometimes experience unexpected closures. In addition, make sure to dress properly for cold temperatures and pack plenty of gear to keep you warm and safe.
Rocky Mountain National Park (Colorado)
Featuring over 355 miles of hiking trails, winter hikers can explore the snowy terrain of Rocky Mountain National Park while enjoying breathtaking views. Notable winter hikes include Bear Lake Trail and Dream Lake Trail. If you’re visiting in your RV, Moraine Park Campground is open year-round and offers RV-friendly sites with direct access to the park’s winter trails.
Acadia National Park (Maine)
Heading East, Acadia National Park in Maine transforms into a winter wonderland with its snow-capped cliffs towering over the Atlantic Ocean. The Jordan Pond Path and the Cadillac South Ridge Trail are great hikes to explore during the winter. Blackwoods Campground provides year-round RV sites, offering facilities with flush toilets and running water.
Yellowstone National Park (Wyoming)
Known for its geothermal wonders, Yellowstone National Park offers a unique winter hiking experience. The park’s incredible geyser basins are even more powerful when influenced by cold temperatures. Old Faithful Snow Lodge and Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel provide RV parking, allowing visitors to access the park’s popular trails, like the Upper Geyser Basin.
Adirondack Park (New York)
For those seeking a winter getaway in Upstate New York, Adirondack Park is a great destination. The park has an extensive trail system, featuring popular winter hikes like Cascade Mountain Trail and Mt. Marcy Trail. There’s also skiing, skating, and shopping in this magical region. There are a variety of RV campgrounds near Lake Placid, Wilmington, and Lake George, providing easy access to the park’s trails and activities.
Zion National Park (Utah)
While renowned for its red rock formations, Zion National Park in Utah also offers unique scenery during the winter. The park’s lower elevations remain accessible during the colder months, allowing hikers to explore trails like Emerald Pools Trail and Riverside Walk. RV-friendly campgrounds, such as Watchman Campground, offer a comfortable home base for winter hikers to enjoy the beauty of Utah.
Glacier National Park (Montana)
Glacier National Park is a sight to behold during the winter, with opportunities to go snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and hiking. Visitors can explore Avalanche Lake Trail or Hidden Lake Overlook Trail for the ultimate snowy hiking adventure. Apgar Campground provides RV campsites, making it a convenient base for hikers to access the park’s pristine winter scenery.
Great Smoky Mountains National Park (Tennessee/North Carolina)
Even in the southeastern United States, winter hiking enthusiasts can find a fulfilling experience in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. While higher elevations experience snowfall, lower elevations offer milder conditions. Visitors can explore trails like Alum Cave Trail and Laurel Falls Trail. Elkmont Campground provides RV sites, allowing visitors to experience the beauty of winter amongst a backdrop of mountain ranges and a frosty river.
There are many stunning destinations around the country where you can enjoy winter hiking trails, from the snowy peaks of the Rocky Mountains to the frosted coast of Maine. If you’re eager to set out on a winter hiking road trip in your RV this month, these are some great options.
For more outdoor inspiration, check out our list of resources to find the right LGBTQ+ hiking groups!
