Jake Cain is an entrepreneur and writer from Cincinnati, Ohio. He spends his free time driving around the country in his late 90’s conversion van, affectionately known as the “Monster Van” with his wife and 3 boys.
March is an excellent time to explore the beauty of America’s national parks, with milder temperatures, fewer crowds, and a host of activities to enjoy.
From hiking to stargazing, scenic drives, and much more, March is the perfect month to discover the natural wonders that our national parks have to offer. To help you choose the right spring destination, we’ll highlight some of the best national parks to visit in March, providing insight into the unique experiences that each park has to offer.
Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast, a family seeking adventure, or a solo traveler looking to explore the great outdoors, these national parks are guaranteed to deliver an unforgettable experience. So, let’s dive into the best national parks to visit in March and start planning your next adventure today!
Guadalupe Mountains National Park
If you’re looking for a national park to visit in March, look no further than Guadalupe Mountains National Park! First and foremost, the weather in March is absolutely gorgeous. With temperatures ranging from the mid-50s to the low 70s, you’ll be able to enjoy all the outdoor activities the park has to offer.
Along with the perfect mild weather, March is a great time to hike in the park because the wildflowers are starting to bloom. You’ll be able to see a variety of beautiful flowers like Indian paintbrush, bluebonnets, and buttercups. And if you’re lucky, you might even see the rare Guadalupe Mountain columbine!
March is also a great time to visit because the park is less crowded than it is during the peak summer months. If you want to experience the beauty of Guadalupe Mountains National Park without the crowds, March is the perfect time to go.
White Sands National Park
If you’re planning a national park trip in March, don’t miss out on White Sands National Park! With sunny skies and mild temperatures ranging from the mid-60s to the low 70s, March is the ideal time to explore this striking park.
What makes White Sands so distinctive is its gorgeous white gypsum sand dunes, which cover over 275 square miles and are unlike any other sand dunes in the world. And in March, you can experience this natural wonder without the summer heat that can sometimes make visiting the park uncomfortable.
The park offers a variety of activities, including hiking, biking, picnicking, and wildlife watching. You can also try sandboarding, sledding, and even stargazing in the park’s designated dark sky area.
Whether you’re traveling with family or friends, or on your own, White Sands National Park in March offers a one-of-a-kind experience that you’ll never forget.
Carlsbad Caverns National Park
Carlsbad Caverns National Park is an essential destination if you’re planning a national park trip in March. The mild temperatures, with highs in the mid-60s to low 70s, make it the perfect time to explore the caverns.
This park is known for its incredible cave system, which features over 100 limestone caves, including the famous Carlsbad Caverns. In March, you can witness a spectacular natural phenomenon known as the bat flight. Every evening at dusk, thousands of bats emerge from the caves to feed, creating an unforgettable sight.
The park offers a range of activities, from guided cave tours to scenic hikes along the Chihuahuan Desert trails. And if you’re interested in stargazing, the park offers regular night sky programs.
So if you’re looking for a one-of-a-kind and indelible experience (and you aren’t afraid of bats!), Carlsbad Caverns National Park in March is definitely worth the trip.
Saguaro National Park
March is the ideal time to visit Saguaro National Park! With temperatures in the mid-70s, it’s the ideal weather for exploring the park’s stunning landscape of giant saguaro cacti.
One of the best activities to do in the park is hiking, with numerous trails that cater to all skill levels. While trails for hikers of every ability are available, you can also take scenic drives to experience the beauty of the park from the comfort of your car.
In March, visitors can witness the blooming of wildflowers and catch a glimpse of the park’s diverse wildlife, including coyotes, javelinas, and Gila monsters. And if you’re interested in stargazing, the park offers regular night sky programs with expert astronomers.
With its breathtaking scenery and diverse range of activities, Saguaro National Park is a rewarding destination in March for anyone looking for an extraordinary national park experience.
Arches National Park
If you’re looking for a national park to visit in March, Arches National Park should certainly be on your itinerary! With temperatures in the 50s and 60s, it’s the perfect time to explore the park’s incredible rock formations and eye-catching natural arches.
One of the best activities in the park is hiking, with trails that range from easy walks to challenging treks. You can also take a scenic drive through the park to witness the beauty of the rock formations from the comfort of your car.
Photography buffs will be excited to take out their cameras, as the lighting in March can provide some of the best photo opportunities of the year. And for a spectacular experience, you can even sign up for a ranger-led night sky program to stargaze in one of the best dark sky locations in the country.
With so much to offer, Arches National Park is a must-visit location in March for anyone who loves the great outdoors.
Pinnacles National Park
March is a fantastic time to visit Pinnacles National Park! With temperatures in the mid-60s, it’s the perfect weather for hiking and exploring the park’s amazing rock formations and awesome caves.
The park offers a variety of hiking trails, including some that are accessible for all skill levels. You can also take guided cave tours to learn more about the park’s fascinating geological features.
March is also a great time to witness the park’s diverse wildlife, including California condors, bats, and numerous species of birds. And for a truly special experience, you can stargaze in one of the best dark-sky locations in California.
With its breathtaking scenery and diverse range of activities, Pinnacles National Park is a hugely satisfying destination in March for anyone looking for a brilliant national park experience.
Joshua Tree National Park
With temperatures in the 70s March is the ideal month to visit Joshua Tree National Park and explore the park’s dramatic desert landscape.
One of the best activities in the park is hiking, with numerous trails that cater to all skill levels. You can also go rock climbing or bouldering on the park’s famous granite rock formations. And if you’re interested in stargazing, the park offers some of the clearest night skies in Southern California.
In March, you can witness the park’s beautiful wildflowers in bloom, making it a perfect time for nature lovers and photographers alike.
With its eye-catching desert landscape and a broad range of activities, Joshua Tree National Park is the perfect March travel destination for any nature lover.
Big Bend National Park
If you’re looking for a national park to visit in March, Big Bend National Park should definitely be on your list! Warm, comfortable temperatures make this spring month the perfect time to explore the park’s diverse terrain and wildlife.
One of the best activities in the park is hiking, with trails that range from easy walks to challenging treks. You can also take a scenic drive along the Ross Maxwell Scenic Drive to witness the beauty of the park’s mountains, canyons, and desert landscape.
March is also a great time to witness the park’s diverse wildlife, including black bears, mountain lions, and numerous species of birds. And for a wonderfully soothing experience, you can soak in the park’s hot springs or take a float trip down the Rio Grande.
Anyone who loves the great outdoors will have a great time exploring the hiking trails and hot springs of Big Bend National Park in March!
Zion National Park
March is a fantastic time to visit Zion National Park! With temperatures in the 60s and 70s, it’s the perfect weather for exploring the park’s characterful red rock formations and canyons.
One of the most popular activities in the park is hiking, with trails that cater to all skill levels. You can hike to the top of Angels Landing for a panoramic view of the park or explore the Narrows, where you’ll wade through a narrow canyon with towering walls.
Be prepared to catch a glimpse of some of the park’s wildlife, too, including bighorn sheep, mule deer, and numerous species of birds. For a one-of-a-kind and memorable experience, you can take a scenic drive along the Zion-Mount Carmel Highway, which offers sweeping views of the park’s landscape.
With its inspirational scenery and a dizzying range of activities, Zion National Park is a fantastic spring destination!
Death Valley National Park
March is a fantastic time to visit Death Valley National Park! Temperatures are mild, allowing visitors to explore the park’s extraordinary landscape without the scorching heat that you’d find here in the summer months.
Hiking is a popular and enjoyable activity at Death Valley National Park, with trails that can accommodate all skill levels. You can hike to Zabriskie Point for a staggering view of the badlands, or explore the colorful formations of the Artist’s Palette.
March is also a great time to witness the park’s unique wildlife, including bighorn sheep, kit foxes, and coyotes. And for a truly unforgettable experience, you can stargaze under some of the darkest skies in the United States.
If you’ve had Death Valley National Park on your travel bucket list, consider planning the trip for March! It’s a perfect time to explore this incredible park.
Shenandoah National Park
With the winter chill finally receding, temperatures begin to warm up and the delightful landscape of Shenandoah National Park comes to life. This spring awakening makes this park one of our favorite parks to visit in March.
One of the best activities in the park is hiking, with over 500 miles of trails that offer dazzling views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. You can hike to the top of Old Rag Mountain for a challenging but rewarding climb, or take a leisurely stroll to Dark Hollow Falls for an impressive waterfall view.
If you prefer to appreciate the views from the comfort of your car, you can take a scenic drive along the park’s famous Skyline Drive, which offers exhilarating views of the park’s landscape.
March is also a great time to witness the park’s diverse wildlife, including black bears, white-tailed deer, and numerous species of birds.
With its beautiful scenery and wide range of activities, Shenandoah National Park is a must-visit destination in March for anyone looking for a rewarding national park experience.
Canyonlands National Park
March is the perfect time to explore the rugged and awe-inspiring landscape of Canyonlands National Park. With cooler temperatures and fewer crowds, you can fully immerse yourself in the park’s natural beauty.
One of the top activities in the park is hiking, with trails for every skill level that offer remarkable views of the park’s gorgeous rock formations and canyons. The Island in the Sky district offers panoramic views from its mesa, while the Needles district provides an up-close look at the park’s colorful rock formations.
You can also go on a scenic drive or take a guided tour to see the park’s many landmarks, including the iconic Mesa Arch. The thinner March crowds make these activities less crowded, offering a more peaceful experience.
Don’t miss Canyonlands National Park in March! This park is a perfect way to explore the beauty of the American West.
Bryce Canyon National Park
Bryce Canyon National Park is a fantastic destination to visit during the less-crowded shoulder season in March. With milder temperatures and fewer crowds, you’ll have more opportunities to explore the park’s bewitching winter scenery at your own pace.
There are plenty of activities to enjoy, such as hiking along the park’s trails to take in the magnificent views of the distinctive hoodoo rock formations. Stargazing is also a must-do activity in Bryce Canyon National Park, as its dark skies offer an incredible opportunity to witness the cosmos.
Additionally, taking a scenic drive to explore the park’s many overlooks and points of interest, including the famous Bryce Amphitheater, is a great way to spend your day.
Whether you’re an experienced adventurer or a first-time visitor, visiting Bryce Canyon National Park during the shoulder season in March is an ideal time to experience the glory of the American Southwest.
9 Day Trips From Virginia Beach Full of Rich History
Discover the top day trips from Virginia Beach that offer a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. From exploring the historical sites of Colonial Williamsburg to witnessing the wild ponies on Chincoteague and Assateague Islands, this article has something for everyone. So, plan your mini-vacation now and explore the best of Virginia’s gems!
16 Aesthetic Beach View Day Trips From Santa Barbara
If you’re planning a trip to Santa Barbara, don’t miss out on exploring the nearby destinations that offer something for everyone. From hiking in the Los Padres National Forest to relaxing on the beaches of Avila Beach, you’ll enjoy this list of the best day trips from Santa Barbara. Whether you’re a wine enthusiast or a film buff, there’s something for everyone on this list of exciting day trips.
10 Day Trips From Gainesville
If you’re planning a trip to Gainesville, Florida, don’t miss out on exploring the nearby destinations that offer something for everyone. From the historic city of St. Augustine to the beautiful beaches of Daytona and Cedar Key, we’ve compiled a list of the best day trips from Gainesville. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast or a history buff, there’s something for everyone on this list of exciting day trips. So, plan your mini-vacation now and explore the best of Florida’s gems!
Best 16 Day Trip Spots From Myrtle Beach
If you’re planning a trip to Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, don’t miss out on exploring the nearby destinations that offer something for everyone. From the charming fishing town of Murrells Inlet to the historic city of Charleston, this article has compiled a list of the best day trips from Myrtle Beach. Whether you’re a beach lover or a history buff, there’s something for everyone on this list of exciting day trips. So, plan your mini-vacation now and explore the best of South Carolina’s gems!