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#2 on this list
Everglades National Park
Florida
Dry season: fewer mosquitoes, concentrated wildlife, comfortable temps.
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- Specification researched
#3 on this list
Big Bend National Park
Texas
Cool desert hiking weather; Chisos Mountains are pleasant mid-winter.
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Specs side by side
| Spec | Everglades National Park | Big Bend National Park |
|---|---|---|
| Managing Agency | National Park Service | — |
| Total Acreage | 1.5 million acres | — |
| Peak Season | December through March | — |
| Average High | 75°F (24°C) in January | — |
| Average Low | 54°F (12°C) in January | — |
| Permit System | Recreation.gov for wilderness camping | — |
| Location | — | Southwest Texas, Mexican border |
| Land Area | — | 801,163 acres |
| High Point | — | Emory Peak (7,825 feet) |
| January Highs | — | 60°F to 66°F (desert floor) |
| January Lows | — | 32°F to 38°F (colder at elevation) |
| Night Sky Rating | — | International Dark Sky Park (Gold Tier) |
What our reviewers liked and didn't
Everglades National Park
- Drying conditions concentrate incredible numbers of birds and alligators
- Virtually free of the summer's oppressive heat and relentless mosquito swarms
- World-class flatwater sea kayaking and backcountry chickee camping
- Mild January weather creates optimal conditions for cycling Shark Valley
- High seasonal visitation creates heavy congestion at popular frontcountry trailheads
- Low winter water levels limit passage on select interior canoe trails
- Paddlers must carry every drop of fresh drinking water into the backcountry
Big Bend National Park
- Mild daytime temperatures allow long-distance desert foot travel
- Incredible night-sky visibility with virtually zero light pollution
- Radical terrain shifts from alpine peaks to deep limestone canyons
- Minimal insect activity and absent summer humidity
- Sub-freezing night temperatures require four-season sleep systems
- Severe lack of reliable backcountry water demands heavy pack loads
- Vast distances require long drive times between interior destinations
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