15 January Travel Destination Ideas in the US
January is an excellent time to explore various destinations across the United States, whether you’re looking for winter wonderlands or warm escapes and vacations. January is an ideal time to travel to many popular destinations due to the more pleasent weather conditions as well as less crowds in many areas that are otherwise filled up for the most of the year. In addition to that, most of the prices from the hotels, to flights are much cheaper than during peak months/seasons. From snow-covered mountains to sunny deserts, here are 15 incredible travel ideas for January!
1. White Sands National Park, New Mexico
White Sands National Park is a unique destination where dunes of pure gypsum create a snowy desert landscape. The cooler January weather is ideal for exploring this surreal environment. This is also one of the least crowded national parks in the states you can visit, making it an open space for uninterupted adventure!
Top Things to Do:
- Sled down the dunes (sleds are available for rent at the visitor center).
- Walk the Interdune Boardwalk for accessible views of the dunes.
- Drive the Dunes Drive loop for scenic views.
- Stay for stargazing or a full moon hike.
2. Sedona, Arizona
Sedona’s red rock formations are breathtaking year-round, but January’s cooler weather and quieter trails make it a prime time to visit. Because it’s also an extremely popular destination nearly year round, going here in January is one of the best times to experience low crowds and way more open space and peace during your trip.
Top Things to Do:
- Hike Cathedral Rock, Devil’s Bridge, or Bell Rock.
- Visit the Chapel of the Holy Cross.
- Explore art galleries and shops in Tlaquepaque Arts & Shopping Village.
- Stargaze in Sedona’s International Dark Sky Community.
- Do a Pink Jeep Tour.
3. The Mighty 5 National Parks in Utah
Utah’s Mighty 5 National Parks (Arches, Bryce Canyon, Canyonlands, Capitol Reef, and Zion) are magical in January, with snow adding contrast to the red rocks. You can explore one, multiple or all of these national parks within a weeks time in many cases and each has their own unique terrain and beauty, making this one of the top destinations in January to explore and overall in life!
Top Things to Do:
- Hike the Navajo Loop at Bryce Canyon for snowy hoodoo views.
- Explore the Delicate Arch Trail in Arches.
- Drive the Scenic Drive in Capitol Reef.
- Take the Riverside Walk or Angel’s Landing hike in Zion.
- Enjoy panoramic views at Grand View Point in Canyonlands.
4. Florida Springs Florida
The Florida Springs provide a warm-water haven in the cooler winter months, with crystal-clear waters and abundant wildlife. Florida is better known for having beautiful beaches but the natural springs located more inland within the state make for amazing, exotic adventures.
Top Things to Do:
- Swim or kayak at Silver Springs State Park.
- Snorkel with manatees at Three Sisters Springs.
- Tube down the Ichetucknee River.
- Explore the underwater caves in Ginnie Springs (for certified divers).
5. Joshua Tree National Park, California
Joshua Tree offers mild temperatures and stunning desert scenery in January. It’s perfect for outdoor activities without the intense summer heat.
Top Things to Do:
- Hike the Hidden Valley Trail or Barker Dam Trail.
- Climb boulders at Skull Rock.
- Watch the sunset from Keys View.
- Camp under the stars in this International Dark Sky Park.
6. Oregon Coast
The Oregon Coast in January offers dramatic views of stormy seas and moody skies, perfect for storm-watching and peaceful retreats.
Top Things to Do:
- Visit Cannon Beach and Haystack Rock. If you have time, also check out Ecola State Park nearby.
- Explore the tide pools at Cape Perpetua.
- Watch the waves crash at Thor’s Well.
- Explore as much of Samuel H Boardman Scenic Corridor (South Oregon Coast).
- Walk along the beaches in Bandon or Newport.
7. Columbia River Gorge, Oregon
The Columbia River Gorge is a winter wonderland in January, with waterfalls often partially frozen and breathtaking views. Most are easily accessible but the key here is that the area is way less crowded during this period and very fun to explore!
Top Things to Do:
- Visit Multnomah Falls and Latourell Falls.
- Drive the Historic Columbia River Highway for scenic views.
- Hike to Wahclella Falls or Bridal Veil Falls.
- Stop at Vista House for panoramic vistas.
8. Aspen, Colorado
Aspen is a premier destination for winter sports and luxury retreats, offering world-class amenities and stunning mountain scenery.
Top Things to Do:
- Ski or snowboard at Aspen Mountain or Snowmass.
- Take a snowshoeing tour through the Rockies.
- Explore downtown Aspen’s shops and restaurants.
- Relax at the Aspen Art Museum.
9. Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming/Montana/Idaho
Winter transforms Yellowstone into a snowy paradise, offering solitude and unique experiences like frozen waterfalls and steaming geysers.
Top Things to Do:
- Visit Old Faithful and the Grand Prismatic Spring.
- Take a guided snowmobile or snowcoach tour.
- Watch for bison, wolves, and elk in Lamar Valley.
- Snowshoe or cross-country ski in the park.
10. Lake Tahoe, California/Nevada
Lake Tahoe is perfect for winter sports and cozy cabin retreats, surrounded by stunning snow-covered mountains.
Top Things to Do:
- Ski or snowboard at Heavenly or Squaw Valley.
- Take a scenic cruise on the lake.
- Visit Emerald Bay State Park for breathtaking views.
- Go sledding or tubing at Adventure Mountain.
11. Charleston, South Carolina
Charleston offers a mild winter escape with historic charm and coastal beauty.
Top Things to Do:
- Stroll through the Historic District and Rainbow Row.
- Visit plantations like Magnolia or Boone Hall.
- Walk along Folly Beach or Sullivan’s Island.
- Enjoy Lowcountry cuisine at local restaurants.
12. Death Valley National Park, California/Nevada
Winter is the best time to visit Death Valley, with mild temperatures making it easier to explore this desert landscape.
Top Things to Do:
- Hike Golden Canyon to Red Cathedral.
- Explore Badwater Basin, the lowest point in North America.
- Watch sunrise at Zabriskie Point.
- Drive through Artist’s Palette for colorful rock formations.
13. Big Bend National Park, Texas
Big Bend is a hidden gem for outdoor enthusiasts in January, offering mild weather and stunning desert vistas.
Top Things to Do:
- Hike the Lost Mine Trail or Santa Elena Canyon.
- Relax in the natural hot springs along the Rio Grande.
- Stargaze in this International Dark Sky Park.
- Go bird-watching along the river.
14. Asheville, North Carolina
Asheville combines mountain scenery with a vibrant arts and food scene, making it a great winter destination.
Top Things to Do:
- Tour the Biltmore Estate and its gardens.
- Hike in the nearby Blue Ridge Mountains.
- Explore the River Arts District.
- Visit local breweries and restaurants downtown.
15. Kauai, Hawaii
Kauai is the perfect tropical escape in January, offering lush rainforests, sunny beaches, and fewer crowds than other Hawaiian islands.
Top Things to Do:
- Hike the Kalalau Trail along the Napali Coast.
- Relax on Poipu Beach or Hanalei Bay.
- Take a helicopter tour of Waimea Canyon.
- Kayak along the Wailua River.
Tips for January Travel
- Pack Accordingly: Be prepared for varied climates, from snowy mountains to warm beaches.
- Book Early: Popular winter destinations can fill up quickly.
- Plan for the Weather: Check local conditions, especially for snow or road closures in colder regions.
