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28 BEST Nationwide Park Highway Journeys within the US
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28 BEST Nationwide Park Highway Journeys within the US

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Last updated: August 20, 2025 10:51 am
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Published: August 20, 2025
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Contents
Pacific Northwest Nationwide Parks Highway JourneysCrater Lake Nationwide ParkNorth Cascades Nationwide ParkOlympic Nationwide ParkMount Rainier Nationwide ParkCalifornia Nationwide Park Highway JourneysLassen Volcanic Nationwide ParkJoshua Tree Nationwide ParkYosemite Nationwide ParkDying Valley Nationwide ParkSequoia Nationwide ParkKings Canyon Nationwide ParkSouthwest Nationwide Park Highway JourneysGrand Canyon Nationwide ParkZion Nationwide ParkBryce Canyon Nationwide ParkArches Nationwide ParkCanyonlands Nationwide ParkCapitol Reef Nationwide ParkRockies Nationwide ParksRocky Mountain Nationwide ParkGlacier Nationwide ParkYellowstone Nationwide ParkGrand Teton Nationwide ParkEast Coast Nationwide ParksNice Smoky Mountains Nationwide ParkShenandoah Nationwide ParkNew River Gorge Nationwide ParkMammoth Cave Nationwide ParkCongaree Nationwide ParkMidwest Nationwide ParksTheodore Roosevelt Nationwide ParkBadlands Nationwide ParkWind Cave Nationwide ParkWhat to Pack for a Nationwide Park Highway JourneyRemaining Ideas on a Nationwide Park Highway JourneyNationwide Park Highway Journey FAQsHow lengthy would a street journey to all nationwide parks take?What number of days do you want at a nationwide park?What’s the #1 visited nationwide park?What time of 12 months is greatest for nationwide park street journey?How a lot does it price to go to each nationwide park?Nicole Jordan
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National Park Road Trip

It doesn’t matter when you’re headed West, Midwest or to the East Coast—there’s profound magnificence to discover in each US nationwide park. Mountains, waterfalls, caves, volcanoes, rainforests, and grasslands are among the numerous environments you’ll get to expertise alongside the way in which.

I’ve organized these nationwide parks by area that will help you plan the last word nationwide park street journey. Whether or not you intend on touring for just some days or for for much longer, there’s a nationwide park street journey for everybody right here.

Pacific Northwest Nationwide Parks Highway Journeys

The gorgeous Pacific Northwest has 4 nationwide parks to discover. You may hyperlink all 4 parks collectively over two weeks, or go to each individually. All three Washington parks are additionally inside a number of hours of one another, so it’s simple to hyperlink these nationwide parks collectively too.

There’s a lot to discover right here, and there’s a wide range of lodging and tenting choices at every of those nationwide parks. Learn on to be taught extra about these nationwide parks highlights.

1

Crater Lake Nationwide Park

Crater Lake National ParkCrater Lake National Park

Crater Lake Nationwide Park is house to the deepest lake in the US, reaching a depth of just about 2,000 toes. It additionally has among the clearest water within the nation.

If you need secluded lake life, that is the place to be. Situated in Southern Oregon, the most effective time to go to Crater Lake Nationwide Park is from spring to fall. Winter presents white-capped landscapes, however many park roads shut as a consequence of snow. I like to recommend not less than two days to totally expertise Crater Lake Nationwide Park.

Hike the Cleetwood Cove Path all the way down to the lake and go for a swim. Get pleasure from scenic views from the pullouts on Rim Drive. Hike up Scott Peak for spectacular vistas, and reserve a ship tour to discover Wizard Island.

There are minimal providers in and across the park, so gas up your automotive earlier than getting into Crater Lake Nationwide Park. If you wish to keep in a resort throughout the park, try Crater Lake Lodge. There are additionally cabins and different lodging accessible close by, or you’ll be able to camp. Exterior of the park, there are minimal lodging choices. Dispersed tenting is allowed in Umpqua Nationwide Forest.

2

North Cascades Nationwide Park

North Cascades National ParkNorth Cascades National Park

Washington’s North Cascades Nationwide Park, often known as the “American Alps,” is likely one of the least visited parks within the nation—and but it’s additionally probably the most strikingly lovely. Situated within the northern park of Washington, this glacially carved vary is roofed with snow-topped peaks with water flowing down into alpine lakes, rivers, and valleys. Drive the scenic freeway, hike as much as Cascade Cross, or cease by Diablo Lake Vista.

The park is gorgeous year-round however most accessible in the summertime and early fall earlier than it snows. North Cascades Freeway is mostly open from June to November, which is the primary street to entry many of the park.

Though you’ll be able to drive via the park and go on a brief hike in a day, if you wish to get off the crushed path you’ll want a number of days right here. North Cascades Nationwide Park has in depth backcountry areas which require a number of days of visiting to really dive into.

There are lodging choices within the park and alongside the freeway, in addition to simply outdoors the park. There are additionally some drive-in campgrounds and loads of dispersed tenting within the surrounding nationwide forests.

3

Olympic Nationwide Park

A river running through a forest in Olympic National ParkA river running through a forest in Olympic National Park

Situated on Washington’s northwest peninsula, Olympic Nationwide Park is known for its numerous ecosystems starting from excessive mountains peaks topped with glaciers, lush rainforests, and rocky coastal seashores.

With various environments and so many issues to do, you’ll need a number of days to discover this park. If you happen to’re restricted on time not less than spend a morning watching the dawn from Hurricane Ridge, hike the Hoh Rainforest Loop to take a look at the flourishing forest, and spend a night watching the sundown at Rialto or Ruby Seashores.

You may go to Olympic Nationwide Park year-round from spring via fall for the most effective climate. Winter is often rainier and snowy at excessive elevations.

The park format is completely different than different nationwide parks. Many cities are throughout the park space and supply loads of lodging choices, together with small inns and inns. There are additionally quite a few campgrounds all through Olympic Nationwide Park.

4

Mount Rainier Nationwide Park

Mount Rainier National ParkMount Rainier National Park

Mount Rainier Nationwide Park is positioned in west-central Washinton and is house to the tallest cascade volcano, Mount Rainier. One of the best time so that you can go to is from late spring to early fall. If you wish to expertise vivid carpets of wildflowers, go to in July and August—in any other case, peak fall foliage is from late September to mid-October.

It’s price spending two or three days at Mount Rainier Nationwide Park. Whereas visiting the park, don’t miss climbing the Skyline Path and Tolmie Peak Lookout. Catch views of Mount Rainier’s glaciers at Paradise, and be sure to keep late sufficient for a little bit of stargazing.

You may ebook a resort or keep at one of many inns, or discover an Airbnb in any of the encircling cities. There are three auto campgrounds within the park and loads of dispersed tenting within the surrounding nationwide forests.

California Nationwide Park Highway Journeys

I is likely to be slightly biased as a result of I reside right here, however California is a good state to go on a nationwide park street journey. There are such a lot of unbelievable websites to see, starting from the desert in Southern California, the Sierra Mountains in Central California, as much as the Cascades in Northern California.

The scale of California is essential to know. It’s an extremely massive state and has some massive nationwide parks that take a number of days to take a look at. Go to these nationwide parks individually, or you probably have a number of weeks to test a number of of them them out, hyperlink them collectively in a single California street journey.

Yosemite Nationwide Park, Sequoia Nationwide Park, and Kings Canyon Nationwide Parks are all positioned closest collectively. In case you have per week, it might work out nice to go to these three nationwide parks collectively. However if you wish to knock all of those California nationwide parks off your bucket checklist, I’d suggest not less than three weeks to dive in. You should utilize my West Coast street journey itinerary for steering.

5

Lassen Volcanic Nationwide Park

Lassen Volcanic National ParkLassen Volcanic National Park

Discover the effervescent swimming pools, mud pots, and vent steams at Lassen Volcanic Nationwide Park positioned within the central northern a part of California, in the beginning of the Cascade Mountain Vary.

Lassen Volcanic Nationwide Park is greatest to go to from the late spring via fall. As soon as it begins snowing, many park roads shut.

I like to recommend not less than two days in Lassen. If you happen to go to in winter, be a part of a ranger-led snowshoe tour. When it’s hotter and the snow has all melted, hike up Mount Lassen, stroll round Manzanita Lake, trek as much as the Cinder Cone, or drive via the park for extra scenic views.

There are a number of campgrounds within the park, in addition to a ranch-styled resort and cabins accessible for reserving. You may test Reserving.com for different lodging lodging across the park in close by cities.

6

Joshua Tree Nationwide Park

Joshua trees in Joshua Tree National ParkJoshua trees in Joshua Tree National Park

Joshua bushes, rugged mountains, desert vistas, and gigantic rocks all make up Joshua Tree Nationwide Park. There’s tons to do right here. Situated within the Mojave and Colorado deserts in Southern California, Joshua Tree is right to go to from October to April for probably the most comfy temperatures.

Hike up Ryan Mountain for sweeping views overlooking Joshua Tree Nationwide Park, drive as much as Keys View for a formidable viewpoint, wander via the Cholla Cactus Backyard, and go to Barker Dam. If you wish to do extra climbing, right here’s a listing of implausible hikes in Joshua Tree.

Whereas there aren’t any inns in Joshua Tree Nationwide Park, the tenting within the park is unbelievable for an opportunity to see the Milky Method. If tenting doesn’t fit your fancy, there are many resort lodging within the cities surrounding Joshua Tree Nationwide Park.

Whereas it’s attainable to go to a few of Joshua Tree Nationwide Park’s highlights in a day, I’d keep not less than one evening to benefit from the clearest skies for skygazing in Southern California. In case you have longer, you gained’t remorse climbing within the park and stress-free within the evenings when visiting Joshua Tree. I wrote a complete article about street tripping round Joshua Tree that will help you plan higher.

7

Yosemite Nationwide Park

Yosemite National ParkYosemite National Park

A glacier-formed valley, spherical domes, jagged mountain peaks, alpine lakes, and roaring waterfalls are just some highlights awaiting you at Yosemite Nationwide Park.

There’s a lot to see and do at Yosemite Nationwide Park—I extremely suggest spending not less than three days right here. Spend sooner or later exploring the valley and one other visiting the Big Sequoias at Mariposa Grove, after which head over to Glacier Level for sundown. Spend your third day in Yosemite Nationwide Park driving and climbing alongside Tioga Cross within the excessive nation.

Whereas most individuals go to Yosemite Nationwide Park between Memorial Day and Labor Day, the park will get fairly crowded. For dashing waterfalls, go to within the early spring. For fall foliage you must go to in October, and to benefit from the tranquility of the valley lined in snow, go to the park within the winter.

There are resort choices each inside and out of doors of Yosemite Nationwide Park, in addition to campsites and choices for glamping. Try The Ahwahnee for a luxurious keep, or head over to my article about the place to remain in Yosemite for much more choices.

8

Dying Valley Nationwide Park

Death Valley National ParkDeath Valley National Park
Photograph: Michelle Halpern

Dying Valley Nationwide Park is named the most well liked, driest, and lowest nationwide park within the US. Whereas visiting, you must try Badwater Basin, the bottom level in North America. Hike among the many Artists Pallete Painted Hills, run via the Mesquite Sand Dunes, and catch a sundown at Zabriskie Level.

Dying Valley is thought for the most well liked temperatures within the nation so it’s greatest to go to Dying Valley Nationwide Park from mid-October to April.

From the low-lying valley to the towering mountain peaks, there are many issues to discover in Dying Valley Nationwide Park. The park is laid out to simply drive in all places, so spend not less than two days touring round. In case you have an off-road car, spend an additional day driving out to Crusing Stones. Try my three-day Dying Valley street journey itinerary for extra inspiration!

Dying Valley Nationwide Park could be very distant, so gas up earlier than you enter, convey additional meals and water, and don’t rely on any cell reception. Dying Valley has restricted resort choices within the park itself however there are many locations to camp, and it’s very simple to park a camper or van in a pull-out and crash there.

9

Sequoia Nationwide Park

Giant sequoia trees in King's Canyon National ParkGiant sequoia trees in King's Canyon National Park

Residence to the biggest bushes on this planet, the very best mountain within the 48 states, and quite a few alpine lakes, you’ll positively need Sequoia Nationwide Park in your itinerary if you’re touring via California.

Stand in awe beneath Normal Sherman (the world’s largest tree by quantity), hike up Moro Rock for spectacular panoramic vistas, or plan a backpacking journey to the huge wilderness of the Sierra.

It’s attainable to go to the primary components of Sequoia Nationwide Park in a day however when you plan to do any lengthy hikes, you’ll want further time. Sequoia Nationwide Park additionally connects to Kings Canyon Nationwide Park so that you’ll wish to test that out too.

With various elevations creating many ecosystems all through the park, Sequoia is a good park to go to at any time of 12 months. Throughout the summer time, spend time at increased elevations within the mountains. Within the spring and fall, you’ll have nice climate for many hikes. Within the winter, stroll amongst the big bushes after a recent snow.

There are each front-country and backcountry campgrounds all through the park however they ebook up shortly. The Wuksachi Lodge is a beautiful place to remain within the park, and there are resort and personal lodging accessible outdoors the park in Three Rivers.

10

Kings Canyon Nationwide Park

Kings Canyon National ParkKings Canyon National Park
Photograph: Jeffrey Pang

Kings Canyon Nationwide Park borders Sequoia and is a straightforward go to whilst you’re within the Sierra Nevada Mountains. Consider me, it’s price it. Kings Canyon can also be house to many big sequoias, together with Redwood Canyon, the biggest remaining Sequoia Grove on this planet.

With only one principal out and again street working via the park, it’s attainable to go to Kings Canyon in a day when you’re pressed for time and don’t wish to backpack. However to totally discover this park, a backpacking journey is the most suitable choice.

The principle street via the park closes within the winter so it’s greatest to go to from late spring to early fall. There are a number of lodging choices within the park (and out of doors the park) in addition to campsites, however ebook them early!

Southwest Nationwide Park Highway Journeys

The Large 5 Utah Nationwide Parks and the Grand Canyon are all positioned shut collectively in Southern Utah and Northern Arizona. They’re naturally an incredible possibility on your nationwide park street journey.

A few of these parks may be visited in a day, however for a few of them, you’ll want not less than three days to discover all of the pure wonders they provide.

If you happen to plan to take a look at all of the nationwide parks directly, I’d suggest not less than one to 2 weeks to totally expertise them on a Utah street journey. In any other case, it’s attainable to hyperlink the closest ones.

Zion Nationwide Park and Bryce Canyon Nationwide Park are solely two hours from one another, and so they’re generally visited collectively. The Grand Canyon is just two hours south of Zion and is a good addition to that journey. Canyonlands Nationwide Park and Arches Nationwide Park are lower than an hour from one another, in order that they’re additionally price visiting collectively.

All these nationwide parks have a wide range of lodging choices and issues to do, so try the next highlights for the most effective nationwide park street journey.

11

Grand Canyon Nationwide Park

Grand CanyonGrand Canyon

One of many seven wonders of the world, Grand Canyon Nationwide Park is a can’t-miss spot on a southwest street journey. If you happen to solely have a day, positively go to the South Rim of the park and stroll the scenic paved path alongside the rim. If you wish to hike down into the canyon, hike a mile or two alongside the Vibrant Angel Path.

If you wish to be absolutely immersed into Grand Canyon Nationwide Park, you’ll want a number of days to totally discover it. Hike the Rim to Rim Path down into the canyon and again up, or try the park from each the North and South Rim. No matter you do, you should definitely catch a dawn or sundown over the canyon; it brings out the most effective colours within the layers of rock.

It’s attainable to go to Grand Canyon Nationwide Park at any time of 12 months, however spring and fall supply the most effective climate for climbing. Within the winter, you must put together for snow. In the summertime, plan for very popular temperatures and restrict your exercise outdoors.

When visiting Grand Canyon Nationwide Park there are a number of resort choices positioned close to the South Rim. If you happen to plan to camp, there are designated campgrounds within the park or a wide range of primitive tenting choices close to the North Rim.

12

Zion Nationwide Park

the view from Angel's Landing atZion National Parkthe view from Angel's Landing atZion National Park
Photograph: Jeremy Scott Foster

Zion Pure Park is Utah’s most visited nationwide park, and it might need one thing to do with the very fact it’s house to among the tallest sandstone cliffs on this planet. They naturally body the park’s deep, gorgeous canyon.

Go to Zion within the late spring or early fall for the most effective temperatures for climbing. I’d keep away from summer time as a result of it’s so scorching. Winter may be good, however plan for the chilly and snow.

Sitting within the southwestern nook of Utah, you’ll want not less than three days to totally expertise Zion Nationwide Park. Hike the Narrows, hike alongside a slender chain-link path to the summit of Angels Touchdown, or go to the Emerald Swimming pools. I additionally recommend driving the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive and looking for wildlife like mule deer and bighorn sheep.

The Zion Nationwide Park Lodge is the one resort within the park; nonetheless, there are many resort choices proper outdoors the park in Springdale. Kanab can also be a preferred city to remain however it’s a bit farther out. There are a number of established campgrounds inside and out of doors the park, in addition to dispersed tenting on the encircling public land.

13

Bryce Canyon Nationwide Park

Bryce Canyon National ParkBryce Canyon National Park
Photograph: Jeremy Scott Foster

Bryce Canyon Nationwide Park is famously identified for its distinctive geological formation: the hoodoo. It’s house to the biggest focus of hoodoos on earth, carved out by erosion. Amphitheaters are full of hoodoo spires, partitions, and home windows ranging in colours from shiny oranges to deep reds, to shiny whites.

Bryce Canyon Nationwide Park is a smaller park, so you’ll be able to see the highlights in a day; nonetheless, there’s all the time lots to discover you probably have extra time. My favourite hike is the 8-mile Fairyland Loop Path the place you’ll be able to stroll amongst the hoodoo towers and get a really feel for the park. It additionally passes by Dawn Level and Sundown Level, two must-visit viewpoints for apparent causes.

The park has a easy format with one principal street working via it. You may simply drive via and cease at many viewpoints, or if it’s crowded, hop on the park shuttle on the customer heart.

In comparison with different Utah parks, Bryce Canyon Nationwide Park is a good possibility to go to in the summertime; it’s positioned at increased elevations and due to this fact has cooler temperatures.

The Bryce Canyon Lodge is the one resort lodging within the park, in any other case, simply outdoors the doorway within the city of Bryce, you’ll be able to discover a place to remain. There are two campgrounds within the park, many websites are first come first served or there are further campgrounds outdoors the park. There are some areas to automotive camp outdoors the park however can take a bit to search out.

14

Arches Nationwide Park

Arches National ParkArches National Park
Photograph: Jeremy Scott Foster

Arches Nationwide Park is positioned in central-eastern Utah and is house to the world’s densest focus of pure stone arches. With the blisteringly scorching summer time warmth, it’s greatest to go to Arches Nationwide Park within the spring or the autumn. It’s much less crowded within the winter, however it does snow within the desert, so costume warmly.

It’s attainable to see Arches Nationwide Park highlights in an extended full-day journey, however the additional time means that you can go on longer hikes. Don’t miss Delicate Arch, Balanced Rock, Double Arch, and Fiery Furnace. The park has loads of pull-outs and climbing trails alongside the primary out and again route working it.

Arches get very crowded throughout the center of the day so plan to reach early. Devils Backyard Campground is the one campground within the park however there are many primitive tenting areas on the BLM land surrounding the park.

For resort and lodging, ebook a spot in Moab. This quaint city is positioned simply south of the park and has a enjoyable downtown with loads of retailers, eating places, and cafes to take pleasure in.

15

Canyonlands Nationwide Park

Utah Road TripUtah Road Trip

One other central-eastern Utah Nationwide Park, Canyonlands is thought for its huge mesas, buttes, spires, arches, and canyons. Canyonlands Nationwide Park is the biggest park in Utah and it’s divided into three sections: Island within the Sky, The Maze, and The Needles.

If you happen to solely have sooner or later within the park, try Island within the Sky. Go to the Grand View Level for sweeping vistas overlooking layers of canyons carved out by the Colorado and Inexperienced Rivers. Take a brief hike to Mesa Arch and hike out to Buck Canyon Overlook.

In case you have greater than a day, wander via the huge sandstone spires, The Needles. It’s simple to get misplaced in these for hours. In case you have a excessive clearance car, get misplaced in trail-less canyons in The Maze.

April to Could and September to October supply probably the most comfy temperatures in Canyonlands Nationwide Park.

There aren’t any inns within the park, so like Arches, Canyonlands Nationwide Park is positioned simply north of Moab, so I like to recommend reserving a resort there for a number of nights. There’s one campground within the Island within the Sky district and one within the Needles district along with loads of backcountry tenting and primitive tenting on the encircling BLM (Bureau of Land Administration) land.

16

Capitol Reef Nationwide Park

National Park Road TripNational Park Road Trip

Canyons, cliffs, domes, bridges, and the well-known water pocket fold all make up the varied desert panorama in Capitol Reef Nationwide Park. Sitting in south-central Utah, Capitol Reef Nationwide Park has probably the most reasonable temperatures in spring and fall. Summers are scorching, and winters are chilly and typically snowy.

Whereas it’s attainable to see quite a bit in sooner or later at Capitol Reef Nationwide Park, it’s greatest to spend 2-3 days right here. Try Cassidy Arch, the Hickman Pure Bridge, Cathedral Valley, and drive the Capitol Reef scenic drive.

Whereas there is no such thing as a lodging straight within the park, there are some inns, ranches, cabins, and Airbnbs inside a fast drive of Capitol Reef Nationwide Park. There are additionally a number of established campgrounds each in and out of doors of Capitol Reef in addition to loads of areas for dispersed tenting.

Rockies Nationwide Parks

The Rocky Mountains Vary is house to 4 gorgeous nationwide parks working via Montana, Idaho, Wyoming, and Colorado.

Every of those 4 parks are massive, and each requires not less than three days to totally expertise them. Try these nationwide parks on one lengthy 2-3 week street journey or each individually to dive in.

Yellowstone and Grand Teton nationwide parks are linked, so it’s simple to spend a number of days to per week visiting this space. Glacier is a number of hours north, so you probably have the time, a scenic freeway runs up north and is well worth the addition to the journey.

Rocky Mountain is a bit farther south so it’s best to go to that park by itself.

17

Rocky Mountain Nationwide Park

Rocky Mountain National ParkRocky Mountain National Park

Rocky Mountain Nationwide Park in Colorado is thought for its dramatic mountain landscapes, alpine lakes, and total unbelievable surroundings. Hike as much as Bear, Emerald, or Dream Lake then drive the Path Ridge Highway. If you happen to’re in for an extended day, hike up Longs Peak.

There’s lots to discover at Rocky Mountain Nationwide Park year-round, however spring and fall convey the most effective temperatures with reasonable crowds. As a result of Rocky Mountain Nationwide Park is so fashionable, there’s a strict reservation system. Reserve a spot at recreation.gov earlier than you head out.

Rocky Mountain Nationwide Park spans over 400 sq. miles. With over 350 miles of climbing trails, you’ll wish to spend not less than two or three days testing this well-known Colorado nationwide park.

Rocky Mountain Nationwide Park has 5 front-country campgrounds and loads of backcountry entry. The encircling nationwide forests are nice for automotive tenting or RV parking. There aren’t any lodges in Rocky Mountain Nationwide Park, however close by Estes Park has loads of resort lodging and a enjoyable downtown to discover.

18

Glacier Nationwide Park

Glacier National ParkGlacier National Park

Lively glaciers, jagged peaks, turquoise lakes, alpine meadows, and historical forests all make up this northern Montana park, Glacier Nationwide Park.

With so many highlights and climbing trails, you’ll want not less than three days to see all the recent spots in Glacier Nationwide Park, and 5 days when you plan to discover the backcountry.

Late June via mid-September is the most effective time to go to Glacier Nationwide Park for the most effective temperatures and most street entry. If you wish to drive the Going-to-the-Solar Highway that is solely accessible when freed from snow.

Don’t miss stress-free at Lake McDonald, climbing to Avalanche Lake by way of the Path of Cedars, and Lake Mary on the east aspect of the park.

There are a number of resort choices within the park in addition to inns, cabins, and Airbnb’s positioned outdoors the park in Whitefish, Bigfork, and Columbia Falls. There are additionally many entrance and backcountry campgrounds within the park. Exterior of the park there are established campgrounds and primitive tenting within the nationwide forests.

19

Yellowstone Nationwide Park

Yellowstone National ParkYellowstone National Park

Identified for its geysers, scorching springs, and traffic-stopping bison herds, there’s a purpose Yellowstone Nationwide Park grew to become the primary nationwide park again in 1872. It’s positioned on the borders of Wyoming, Montana, and Idaho and is likely one of the largest nationwide parks within the states.

You’ll want a number of days to totally expertise the wonders Yellowstone presents. Don’t miss Previous Trustworthy, the Grand Prismatic Spring, and Mammoth Scorching Springs for among the most spectacular geologic options in Yellowstone Nationwide Park.

Yellowstone Lake, the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone, and Hayden Valley are another can’t miss spots. You’ll must all the time keep looking out for wildlife as Yellowstone Nationwide Park is thought for its massive mammals, together with grizzly bears, moose, wolves, and bison.

Sitting at excessive altitudes, Yellowstone is most accessible within the late spring to early fall earlier than the snow. Throughout the winter many roads shut and many of the park is just accessible by snowmobile.

There are a number of resort lodging choices within the park in addition to in surrounding cities together with West Yellowstone and Gardiner. There are additionally loads of campgrounds each within the park and within the close by nationwide forests.

20

Grand Teton Nationwide Park

Grand Teton National ParkGrand Teton National Park

Grand Teton Nationwide Park is famously identified for its dramatic mountain skyline overlooking a big open valley. Hike as much as Cascade Canyon, raft the Snake River, paddle round Jackson Lake, or drive the 42 Mile Scenic Loop.

Yellowstone and Grand Teton Nationwide Parks are linked by freeway 191 making them an ideal joint journey possibility. Like Yellowstone, Grand Teton is most accessible from the late spring to early fall, making that the most effective time to go to.

I might spend not less than two days visiting Grand Teton Nationwide Park. There are such a lot of hikes, actions, and exquisite viewpoints to take a look at right here. If you happen to love climbing, you would simply spend per week exploring this space.

There are a number of lodging choices within the park together with rustic resort lodging, cabins, and lakefront residences. The city of Jackson can also be a preferred place to remain or hire an Airbnb. If you happen to plan to camp, ebook a campsite within the park forward of time or head out to Bridger-Teton Nationwide Forest the most effective van life/automotive tenting primitive choices.

East Coast Nationwide Parks

The east coast nationwide parks aren’t as plentiful as out west; nonetheless, there’s nonetheless tons of stuff to see and do. Mountains, forests, caves, wetlands, and gorges make up this a part of the nation.

You may go to a few of these parks in a day however in a few of them, you’ll need a number of days to discover. In case you have two weeks, join all of them! However when you’re restricted on time, I’d suggest the three closest collectively: the Nice Smoky Mountains, Shenandoah, and New River Gorge.

21

Nice Smoky Mountains Nationwide Park

mountains in the distance atGreat Smoky Mountains National Parkmountains in the distance atGreat Smoky Mountains National Park

Nice Smoky Mountains Nationwide Park is probably the most visited nationwide park within the US. It sits on the North Carolina-Tennessee border and is known for its numerous wildlife, waterfalls, scenic fog-covered mountains, and the scenic drive alongside the Blue Ridge Parkway.

Spring to fall is the most effective time to go to the Nice Smoky Mountains. Benefit from the wildflowers within the spring, bounce in swimming holes in the summertime, and benefit from the colourful foliage within the fall.

You’ll wish to spend not less than two or three days within the Nice Smoky Mountains to discover them. Don’t miss the Chimney Tops Path or the Rainbow Falls Path and take a dip at The Sinks swimming gap. At all times look out for wildlife, because the Nice Smoky Mountains are well-known for his or her numerous natural world.

Le Conte Lodge is the one lodging lodging in Nice Smoky Mountains Nationwide Park. There are many resort choices outdoors the park, with loads of stays within the touristy city of Gatlinburg. The park additionally has 10 front-country campgrounds with tent, automotive, and RV choices.

22

Shenandoah Nationwide Park

autumn colors in Shenandoah National Parkautumn colors in Shenandoah National Park

Sitting alongside the Blue Ridge Mountains in Central Virginia, Shenandoah Nationwide Park is thought for its rolling mountains, tall waterfalls, and the picturesque Skyline Drive.

Go to Shenandoah Nationwide Park from spring to fall for the most effective climate, however plan for warm, humid temperatures in the summertime. You’ll wish to spend 2-3 days right here to test all of it out. Drive Skyline Drive to wind via the park and see all of the scenic viewpoints.

Spend one other day climbing to Darkish Hole Falls and up Bearfence Mountain. If you happen to’re up for an extended day hike try Previous Rag.

There are a number of cabin and lodging choices accessible within the park, in any other case, there are small resort choices simply outdoors. There are additionally a number of campgrounds within the park in addition to restricted dispersed tenting within the surrounding nationwide forest.

23

New River Gorge Nationwide Park

the curving river valley of New River Gorge National Parkthe curving river valley of New River Gorge National Park

New River Gorge Nationwide Park is the most recent nationwide park, signed in December 2020. It’s house to the roaring whitewater river flowing via its deep canyon—one of many oldest rivers on this planet.

I’d spend not less than a day testing this park; hike the Infinite Wall Path or try the huge bridge. If you happen to plan to ebook one of many many adventures actions like whitewater rafting I’d recommend an additional day. There are many journey actions at this central West Virginia nationwide park.

No matter time of 12 months you go to, there’s all the time one thing to do. Spring, summer time, and fall have the most effective temperatures; nonetheless, winter brings snow providing scenic panoramic vistas.

There are many primitive campsites alongside the water’s edge, in addition to established campgrounds in cities a number of miles again from the river. As a result of the park runs alongside the river’s edge, there’s loads of resort lodging within the surrounding cities.

24

Mammoth Cave Nationwide Park

Mammoth Cave Nationwide Park, positioned in Kentucky, preserves the world’s largest identified cave system spanning over 400 explored miles…though there’s way more to find.

Mammoth Cave is price a day journey in your east coast street journey. Reserve a ranger-led tour to discover this unbelievable cave system. If you happen to’re within the space for an extended period of time, there are some state parks close by which can be additionally price testing.

It’s attainable to go to Mammoth Cave Nationwide Park at any time of 12 months; nonetheless, it’s least crowded from November to February.

Situated in a comparatively populated space, there are loads of inns inside shut proximity. The park has one small campground reservable on-line. There’s minimal to no tenting outdoors of the park

25

Congaree Nationwide Park

wooded walkway at Congaree National Parkwooded walkway at Congaree National Park

Towering pines and large hardwoods in Congaree Nationwide Park make up one of many highest forest canopies on this planet. Situated in South Carolina, it is a excellent day journey vacation spot when within the space or on an east coast nationwide parks street journey.

Wander on some climbing trails, kayak the Congaree River, go fishing, or be a part of a ranger-led tour to expertise the most effective of this park.

Fall via spring are the most effective seasons to go to Congaree Nationwide Park as summer time temperatures make it too scorching to take pleasure in. Come ready with bug spray and head nets to keep away from the mosquitos that are round many of the 12 months.

If you happen to’re within the space for a number of days, there are a number of campgrounds within the park and there are loads of resort choices in close by cities, together with town of Columbia

Midwest Nationwide Parks

The midwest nationwide parks are house to badlands, grasslands, and caves. Collectively, they make an incredible street journey possibility via the Dakotas.

I’d spend per week visiting these three nationwide parks, and you probably have additional time, there are some state parks to cease at close by too, Put together your self for plentiful wildlife, and when visiting these nationwide parks, gas up steadily as they’re all fairly distant!

26

Theodore Roosevelt Nationwide Park

wildlife at Theodore Roosevelt National Parkwildlife at Theodore Roosevelt National Park

Bison, elk, pronghorn, deer, bighorn sheep, and wild horses fill the open grasslands throughout Theodore Roosevelt Nationwide Park. If you happen to’re a wildlife fanatic, that is the place for you. Go to the park from spring to fall for the most effective climate; winters get very chilly and snowy.

Whereas it’s attainable to see most park highlights in a day, the park is split into three sections. If you wish to test all of them out, I like to recommend spending not less than two days right here. Don’t miss the Painted Canyon Badlands, Prairie Canine City, the Scenic Loop Drive, and Oxbow Overlook. And all the time keep looking out for the varied wildlife roaming all through the park.

There isn’t a lodging accessible within the park however there are many inns, cabins, ranches, and Airbnb choices positioned close by. The park does have two campgrounds in addition to many simply outdoors.

27

Badlands Nationwide Park

Badlands National ParkBadlands National Park

Sitting within the nook of southwest South Dakota, Badlands Nationwide Park is thought for its sprawling grasslands, eroding canyons, jagged buttes, and plentiful wildlife. Badlands Nationwide Park is the closest you will get to an American Safari.

The park’s japanese aspect is famously identified for its badland rock formations. There are numerous brief climbing trails off of Freeway 240 the primary street within the park. Persevering with west you’ll find yourself within the park’s grassland space which is house to bison, bighorn sheep, pronghorns, prairie canines, and lots of birds.

I spent a day and a half exploring Badlands Nationwide Park as a result of I like lengthy hikes; nonetheless, it’s very doable in a day. Watch the dawn over the badlands for the most effective colours within the rock, go on a brief hike, then drive via the west aspect of the park on the seek for wildlife.

Spring and fall are probably the most comfy instances of 12 months to discover the park. Winters get very chilly, and snow makes journey tough. Summers are very popular so you must keep away from climbing throughout the center of the day.

Badlands Nationwide Park is distant and has restricted providers. Gasoline up forward of time and pack loads of water and meals. Cedar Cross Lodge is the one lodging within the park moreover tenting. Nevertheless, there are many resort choices in surrounding cities in addition to further campgrounds.

28

Wind Cave Nationwide Park

Wind Cave National ParkWind Cave National Park

Wind Cave Nationwide Park is positioned simply south of Badlands Nationwide Park, and though it’s very small, it’s price a fast few-hours of exploration.

Wind Cave is thought for its distinctive boxwork cave resembling honeycomb formations. Whereas there are minimal hikes above floor, join a ranger-led tour to discover these unbelievable cave formations.

There are restricted providers within the park and no resort lodging. Not like Badlands Nationwide Park, Wind Cave is price visiting throughout the summer time warmth of the day as a result of cave temperatures are fairly cool. Excursions are supplied year-round however test on-line for probably the most up-to-date data earlier than heading out.

What to Pack for a Nationwide Park Highway Journey

Relying on the time of 12 months and what nationwide parks you’re visiting, you’ll must pack completely different provides on your nationwide park street journey. For the most effective expertise, these are some necessities you’ll need more often than not it doesn’t matter what season it’s and the place you’re touring.

  • Water – Carry not less than one gallon of water per individual per day; when you plan to camp in your nationwide park street journey, convey further water for laundry dishes and your self.
  • Meals – At all times convey loads of meals and have an additional provide of dry meals in case you might be in a distant space with minimal providers. For snacks, carry high-calorie meals like bars, nuts, and dried fruits.
  • Mountaineering Daypack – A great climbing daypack is important for these nationwide park street journeys. I’d suggest a 20-25 liter pack. Osprey makes some nice ones; males, try the Osprey Talon and girls try the Tempest 20. If you need one thing greater, try our spherical up of the most effective climbing backpacks.
  • Mountaineering Sneakers – Whether or not you’re climbing or strolling on paved paths, comfy, sturdy climbing sneakers are one other important for any of those nationwide park street journeys. Each foot is completely different so attempt them on and break them in earlier than heading out. Mountaineering boots are nice for ankle help. Mountaineering sneakers, like path runners, are superior if you would like one thing a bit lighter.
  • First Support Package – Try the MyMedic first assist package on your go-to first assist provides for these nationwide park street journeys.
  • Heat Clothes – Layers are important when visiting these nationwide parks with various temperatures, seasons, and elevation ranges. These are some nice midlayers to pack for any nationwide park street journey.
  • Solar Hoodie – Defend your pores and skin from the solar in the summertime with a skinny light-weight solar hoodie with UPF safety. I like Mountain {Hardware}’s Crater Lake Hoodie for each males and ladies.
  • Merino Wool – Within the winter, merino wool is a good possibility. It dries shortly and retains you very heat. I all the time put on my Smartwool baselayers when visiting nationwide parks in cooler months.
  • Mountaineering Pants – Fast-drying climbing pants shield from the solar, vegetation, and sharp rocks when climbing within the nationwide parks.
  • Rain Jacket – No matter season it’s, all the time convey a rain jacket. The climate can all the time change and it doubles as wind shell layer.
  • Puffy Coat – A down or artificial puffy can also be important when visiting nationwide parks. Even throughout the hotter months, some parks get very chilly at evening. I’ve worn each down and artificial puffy’s from Patagonia over time and love their merchandise.
  • Hat – In the summertime, pack a baseball cap. Within the cooler months you’ll desire a winter hat.
  • Sun shades – Don’t neglect to guard your eyes from the solar when visiting the nationwide parks.
  • Sunscreen – Whether or not you’re within the desert, mountains, or close to water, all the time convey sunblock.
  • Map – Obtain offline maps and carry paper maps within the areas of those nationwide park street journeys. Each varieties of maps are nice choices when out of cell service. For climbing, obtain AllTrails offline maps.
  • Headlamp – At all times carry a headlamp. It’s very useful at camp or when you get caught on the path later than anticipated.

Remaining Ideas on a Nationwide Park Highway Journey

It’s time to start out planning your subsequent nationwide park street journey! Whether or not you intend to hike mountains, take a soothing scenic drive, discover caves, or go swimming in waterfalls there are many nationwide park street journey choices all throughout the nation.

With so many nationwide park street journeys to discover, there’s something for each kind of traveler irrespective of the season. Have enjoyable, and let me find out about your favourite nationwide park within the feedback.

Nationwide Park Highway Journey FAQs

How lengthy would a street journey to all nationwide parks take?

It could take about 3 months to go to all of the nationwide parks when you had been going as quick as attainable and never stopping a lot to spend time in every park.

What number of days do you want at a nationwide park?

1-3 days is sufficient to take pleasure in most nationwide parks.

What’s the #1 visited nationwide park?

Nice Smokey Mountains Nationwide Park is probably the most visited nationwide park within the nation.

What time of 12 months is greatest for nationwide park street journey?

Summer time is the most effective time for many nationwide parks, however the desert parks in Utah, Arizona, and California are higher in cooler seasons.

How a lot does it price to go to each nationwide park?

With the American the Lovely Cross, you get limitless nationwide park admissions for a full 12 months for $80!

In regards to the Writer

Nicole Jordan

Nicole Jordan is an journey information who leads backpacking, climbing, sea kayaking, and snowshoeing journeys. She’s on a lifelong pursuit to climb as many mountains as attainable and sleep beneath the evening sky in the entire Nationwide Parks. When she’s not touring internationally yow will discover her residing out of her Subaru Forester, exploring the most effective of the US.

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