Best Warm Desert Destinations to Visit This Winter
When the snow starts falling and temperatures drop, many travelers trade in their snow boots for hiking boots and head to the desert. Winter is the perfect time to explore the Southwest’s most stunning desert landscapes, offering cool weather, fewer crowds, and jaw-dropping scenery.
If you’re looking for the best winter desert destinations in the U.S., here are top spots that blend adventure, relaxation, and epic views — all ideal for your next winter escape.
Joshua Tree National Park, California
Why visit in winter?
Cool temperatures, sunny days, and surreal desert landscapes make Joshua Tree a prime winter getaway. With average daytime highs in the 60s°F (15-20°C), it’s the perfect season for hiking, rock climbing, and stargazing.
Don’t miss:
Hidden Valley Trail – A short loop showcasing iconic rock formations and Joshua trees
Keys View – Panoramic views of the Coachella Valley and San Andreas Fault
Skull Rock – A natural rock formation that’s fun for all ages
Pro Tip: Winter weekends can still be busy — visit midweek for a quieter experience.
Red Rock Canyon, Nevada
Just 25 minutes from the Las Vegas Strip, Red Rock Canyon offers a high-desert oasis for winter adventurers. This conservation area is famous for its red sandstone peaks, scenic drives, and technical climbing routes.
Winter weather: Highs in the 50s–60s°F, perfect for hiking and biking.
Top things to do:
Drive the 13-mile Scenic Loop
Hike the Calico Tanks Trail for views of Las Vegas
Rock climb in Calico Basin
After a day in nature, enjoy world-class food and entertainment back in Vegas.
Pro Tip: Red Rocks requires a timed-entry reservation for driving the scenic loop. These can easily be made on recreation.gov.
Sedona, Arizona
Famous for its red rock formations and vortex energy, Sedona is a peaceful desert retreat during the winter months. It’s less crowded and offers moderate hiking weather with temps in the 50s–60s°F.
Highlights:
Cathedral Rock Trail – A challenging yet rewarding hike
Chapel of the Holy Cross – Built into the red rocks
Uptown Sedona – Great for local art and dining
Photography tip: Winter light enhances the already stunning landscape, making golden hour even more magical.
Anza-Borrego Desert State Park, California
Located just two hours from San Diego, Anza-Borrego is California’s largest state park and a hidden gem for winter exploration. With vast canyons, slot hikes, and desert wildflowers, this park is a must-visit.
Winter draws:
The Slot – A narrow, winding slot canyon that’s Instagram-worthy
Borrego Palm Canyon Trail – Hike to a desert oasis
Stargazing – An International Dark Sky Park with phenomenal night skies
Best time to visit: December through February for cooler hiking and fewer crowds.
Death Valley National Park, California/Nevada
While it’s one of the hottest places on Earth in summer, Death Valley becomes an ideal winter destination with mild temps and surreal landscapes. Winter highs range from 60–70°F.
Must-see sights:
Badwater Basin – Lowest point in North America
Zabriskie Point – Stunning sunrise views
Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes – Iconic desert landscape
Note: Some higher elevation roads may be closed in winter, so check conditions before you go.
Big Bend National Park, Texas
Tucked along the Rio Grande, Big Bend is one of the most remote and underrated national parks in the U.S. Winter brings comfortable weather (50s–70s°F) and solitude among desert mountains and canyons.
Things to do:
Soak in Langford Hot Springs
Hike Santa Elena Canyon
Drive the scenic Ross Maxwell Scenic Drive
Why winter? Avoid the scorching Texas heat and enjoy wide-open desert serenity.
Why Desert Destinations Shine in Winter
Desert regions like Joshua Tree, Red Rock Canyon, Sedona, and Death Valley offer more than just sunshine — they provide the chance to explore iconic American landscapes without the summer swelter or the holiday ski crowds. In closing, make sure to follow these quick pro-tips to ensure an enjoyable winter desert vacation:
Pack layers: Desert temps drop quickly at night
Stay hydrated: Even in winter, it’s dry
Watch the weather: Some desert regions can get rain or snow
Book early: Popular parks may still fill up in peak winter weekends
