When the summer sun turns brutal, there’s nothing better than escaping to a place where the air stays crisp and cool. Lucky for us, the US has plenty of hidden pockets that stay refreshingly cold even in July and August. Here are five of the best cold places to visit in summer in the US when you’re tired of sweating through your shirts.
1. Glacier National Park, Montana
Glacier National Park is a gem for anyone craving cold mountain air in the thick of summer. Sitting near the Canadian border, this park stays pleasantly cool, with temperatures often hovering in the 60s and 70s. The real charm is the massive snowfields that linger well into the warm months, feeding over 700 miles of hiking trails with icy streams and waterfalls. Take the famous Going-to-the-Sun Road for views of snow-capped peaks even in July.
Highlights:
- Hike the Highline Trail for insane mountain views
- Spot mountain goats and grizzly bears
- Stay at historic lodges like Many Glacier Hotel
2. Mount Rainier National Park, Washington
Mount Rainier is more than just a snow-capped icon on Washington’s license plates. In summer, the park is a haven for cool-weather lovers. At 14,410 feet, the mountain’s glaciers help keep the surrounding area chilly, with daytime temps often in the 50s and 60s near Paradise and Sunrise visitor areas. Wildflower meadows bloom in July, but you’ll still see patches of snow on your hikes.
Highlights:
- Hike to Panorama Point for snow in your summer selfies
- Explore ice caves near Paradise
- Camp in cool forests at Ohanapecosh
3. Crater Lake National Park, Oregon
Crater Lake sits at over 6,000 feet in the Cascade Mountains, and the deep blue water is the leftover basin of a collapsed volcano. Even in the middle of summer, cool winds sweep across the lake. Nights can dip into the 40s. The rim drive around the lake is breathtaking, with views of Wizard Island and dramatic cliffs. Bring a jacket — you’ll need it.
Highlights:
- Take a boat tour to Wizard Island
- Hike the Cleetwood Cove Trail to swim in the icy blue water
- Camp under the stars at Mazama Village
4. San Francisco, California
This might surprise you, but San Francisco is famously chilly in summer thanks to the marine layer and Pacific winds. Mark Twain wasn’t joking when he said the coldest winter he ever spent was a summer in San Francisco. Expect temps in the mid-60s, with plenty of fog rolling over the Golden Gate Bridge. Pack a sweater or you’ll be that tourist shivering in shorts.
Highlights:
- Walk across the Golden Gate Bridge wrapped in fog
- Grab clam chowder at Fisherman’s Wharf
- Escape to chilly Alcatraz Island
5. Denali National Park, Alaska
If you really want to beat the heat, head north. Way north. Denali National Park in Alaska is the ultimate cool summer destination. Daytime temps often stay in the 50s and 60s, and nights can be downright cold. You’ll get stunning views of North America’s tallest peak, glaciers, tundra, and wildlife galore. Summer is the best time to visit because the park is only open May through September.
Highlights:
- Ride the Denali Park Road shuttle for bear and moose sightings
- Hike the Savage River Loop with a light jacket
- Take a flightseeing tour over glaciers
Ready to Chill Out?
When the heat gets unbearable, swap your tank tops for fleeces and head for these cold spots. Glacier peaks, coastal fog, and mountain breezes will remind you that summer doesn’t always mean sweat. Grab your hiking boots and go find some chill.
