Unforgettable Adventures Await: Experiencing the Wonders of US National Parks
America is full of incredible places to visit, and one thing they do exceptionally well is looking after their astonishing National Parks. There are 63 national parks and over 400 areas that are looked after by the National Park Service, including national monuments and national recreation areas.
There are so many US National Parks that deciding where to visit will be hard. Here, we’ve pulled together a few of our favourites to help you plan your road trip itinerary.
Yosemite National Park is a treasure! You will be amazed as you reach the colossal granite cliff faces and venture into the valley.
How big is Yosemite National Park? Yosemite National Park is as tall as it is wide. Ok, not quite, but it does feel that way! 1,100 square miles of giant trees, thunderous waterfalls, and granite cliff faces.
What to do in Yosemite National Park? If you have a few days to spend in this huge National Park, you will want to make the most of your time. Catching the sunrise is always a treat, and if you’re not too tired from hiking, you can enjoy watching the sunset over the most beautiful valley in the world. The skies are blissfully unpolluted here, too, so this is an excellent opportunity for some stargazing.
How do you pronounce Yosemite? ‘Yo-sem-it-ee’.
Click here to view our Road Trip Itineraries that explore Yosemite National Park…
Yosemite National Park, California
Technically, it is Canada, but it is still one of our favourite national parks in North America. Jasper National Park is the largest National park in the Canadian Rockies, covering 11,000 square miles. You will be surrounded by bright turquoise lakes, jagged mountains and spectacular scenery here.
Where is Jasper National Park? You will find Jasper National Park in western Alberta. You’ll certainly know you’ve arrived when you reach the jagged mountain tops and breathtaking views you’ll be compelled to pull over to snap a picture of. You will reach this spectacular National Park by driving the Icefields Parkway, a scenic road driving past ancient glaciers and massive waterfalls. Don’t leave the Icefields Parkway without a visit to the glowing Peyto Lake. The lake looks surreal with its bright blue glistening water.
What to do in Jasper National Park? Guided tours take you through the park, which explains the geology and wildlife you will discover. Cougars, wolves, bears and other wildlife can be seen here. Venture out to Maligne Lake, where you can enjoy various outdoor activities, hike or visit the famous Spirit Island.
Click here to view our Road Trip Itineraries that explore Jasper National Park…
Spirit Island in Jasper National Park, Alberta
America’s most visited National Park! Ridge upon ridge of perfect forest. Wonderful to visit throughout the year, we highly recommend a trip during the autumn, as the Smoky Mountains produce a unique show of colours for hikers and driving enthusiasts.
Where to find the Great Smoky Mountains National Park? The Great Smokies is in the East of the United States, straddling the border of Tennessee and North Carolina. Gatlinburg, Tennessee, is the most popular entrance into the park.
What is the weather like in The Great Smoky Mountains? The temperatures can vary from as much as 20 degrees from the base to the peak of a mountain, and it is likely to rain up there – so pack a jacket! The end of summer is a great time to visit the park; you’ll find the Smoky Mountains a bit cooler and see clear skies. Frosts sneak in towards the end of September. Winter does see snow in the park, usually dusting the mountains in January and February.
Some of our favourite hotels in the Smoky Mountains include… The Dancing Bear Lodge in Townsend, and the Courtyard by Marriott Gatlinburg Downtown.
Click here to view our Road Trip Itineraries that explore Great Smoky Mountains National Park…
The Blue Ridge Parkway, Great Smoky Mountains
Death Valley National Park is one of North America’s hottest and driest places—a land of magnificent, yet dangerous, extremes.
This extreme destination recently broke the record for the highest recorded temperature on the planet! On August 16th, 2020, temperatures rose to 53°C (130°F), the hottest Death Valley since 1913.
Where is Death Valley? You will find Death Valley in the Great Basin near the borders of Nevada and California.
How far is Death Valley from Las Vegas? Death Valley National Park is a 2.5-hour drive from Las Vegas, at 118 Miles. Alternatively, there is a scenic route, which will take 4 hours.
There are many ways to experience this landscape, including hiking, biking, climbing and horseback riding. Dante’s View gives you views of the entire valley, whilst Zabriskie Point is another famous viewing point. Badwater Basin is the lowest point in the US at 282 feet below sea level, where you can walk out onto the salty flats. Alternatively, you can drive along the 9-mile scenic Artists Drive.
How much does it cost to enter Death Valley National Park? A fee of $30 per vehicle allows access to the park for 7 days.
Is there wildlife in Death Valley? Death Valley isn’t entirely inhabitable despite extreme drought and soaring temperatures. Surprisingly, coyotes, bats, bobcats, big horn sheep, and even mountain lions are among the wildlife that make a home in this desert land.
Death Valley Top Tip… The name speaks for itself. Death Valley can undoubtedly be dangerous for those who are poorly prepared. For that reason, fuel up before you make your journey.
Click here to view our Road Trip Itineraries that explore Death Valley National Park…
Prepare to be blown away by the Grand Canyon, an awe-inspiring natural wonder that verges on the unbelievable. On the top of many travellers’ bucket lists, this is undoubtedly one of the best National Parks in America.
Where is The Grand Canyon? The world’s biggest hole is found in Arizona, 18 miles wide and 277 miles long… you really do have to see it to believe it.
How was The Grand Canyon formed? This geological wonder can be seen from outer space! The Canyon was formed over billions of years by the water of the Colorado River running through.
When is the best time to visit the Grand Canyon? The busiest time for visitors at the Grand Canyon is from May to September, the hottest time! In autumn, the weather is mild, and the Canyon’s colours are beautiful! Expect the crowds, but with a space so huge, you will find the perfect viewpoint to enjoy.
How much time should you spend at Grand Canyon National Park? Our road trips allow you to travel across America, spending as much time as you like in each location. So, whether you are spending the night at The Canyon or just passing through for the afternoon on your road trip across Arizona, you can see as much of the Grand Canyon as you like.
Where to stay when visiting Grand Canyon National Park? Bright Angel and El Tovar Lodges are some ARTCo favourites. With natural, rustic character and the ultimate surroundings, an authentic, cosy cabin feel is always a win on a road trip!
There are some great hikes and trails around the National Park to experience the full effect of the canyon. There are also mule rides, bike rentals, and ranger talks to enjoy while you visit.
The Grand Canyon Skywalk is a glass walkway at the West Rim, which reaches out over the Canyon, surprisingly not for the faint-hearted. This is a popular spot but one particularly worthy of a wait.
Click here to view our Road Trip Itineraries that explore Grand Canyon National Park…
Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona
Visit Zion National Park, Utah, an otherworldly landscape full of towering red rock cliffs and carved winding canyons.
Where Is Zion National Park? You will reach Zion National Park in southwest Utah. Springdale is a charming little town just outside of Zion National Park and a great place to stay on your road trip and enjoy Zion. From Springdale, Utah, you can hop onto the free shuttle service, which services Zion National Park and takes you between each scenic spot. Zion National Park is 2.5 hours from Las Vegas, 1.5 hours from Bryce Canyon National Park and just under two hours from Page, AZ.
Zion National Park makes a great stop along your American road trip. We know we shouldn’t have favourites – but Zion is undoubtedly an American Road Trip Company favourite!
Click here to view our Road Trip Itineraries that explore Zion National Park…
Zion National Park in Utah
Glacier National Park, Montana, is a haven for nature lovers. With so many things to do and sights to see, there’s an adventure for everyone who visits!
Where is Glacier National Park? Glacier National Park is in Montana’s Rocky Mountains. Running right up to the Canadian border in the North, often referred to as The Crown of the Continent!
What to do at Glacier National Park? Going To The Sun Road is the scenic road running through the middle of the Rocky Mountains in Glacier National Park. This spectacular 52-mile road speaks for itself. You will drive along the narrow, winding roads, through the mountain tunnels and over the continental divide at Logan Pass.
Set off early. Chances of spotting wildlife are also higher at this time.
What wildlife can we see at Glacier National Park? Grizzly’s and Black Bears inhabit the park; it is bear country, after all! You may spot Moose, Deer, Wolverine, Big Horn Sheep, and smaller animals such as porcupines and beavers.
When does Glacier National Park open? This incredible National Park is open every day of the year, and visitors can enter at any time. The roads leading to the park and visitor facilities close during the winter as the conditions aren’t suitable.
How much does it cost to enter Glacier National Park? The entrance fee is $35, allowing access for seven days.
Click here to view our Road Trip Itineraries that explore Glacier National Park…
Going to the Sun Road in Glacier National Park
Herds of bison roam freely, and colourful spring pools and lively geysers are all on top of a volcanic hot spot. It is the world’s oldest national park – it’s Yellowstone!
Where is Yellowstone? Most of the park is tucked up in the northwest corner of Wyoming, with some spilling out into Idaho and Montana.
How much does it cost to enter Yellowstone National Park? The entrance fee is $30 per vehicle, but it is worth every penny! If you’re visiting three or more National Parks during your road trip, purchasing the ‘America The Beautiful’ annual pass for $80 will be the most cost-effective option.
What to do in Yellowstone? The park has five significant hotspots: Mammoth Hot Springs, Canyon Village, Lake Village, Grant Village, and Old Faithful. Each is home to hydrothermal marvels!
There are hikes around the park for all to enjoy, ranging from short round trips around the Geysers to steep stairways such as ‘Uncle Toms Trail’. Grand Prismatic Spring is one of the most popular attractions in Yellowstone; here, you can see the multicoloured spring from the boardwalks which surround the Midway Geyser Basin and take you along the other main features, which include Opal Pool and Turquoise Pool.
Besides viewing the surreal landscapes, one of the best things to do in Yellowstone National Park is to view the Wildlife. In Lamar Valley, you will see thousands of wild bison roaming freely. Take advantage of your jet lag and visit early in the morning; you could be lucky enough to spot deer, bears, coyotes, and maybe even wolves!
Our road trip experts know the best places to stay in Yellowstone National Park.
Click here to view our Road Trip Itineraries that explore Yellowstone National Park…
Giant Prismatic Spring, Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming
High up in the mountain live the giants. Surrounded by deep canyons and massive mountains, everything is huge! Visit Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks.
Where to find Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks?
You will find Sequoia National Park right beside Kings Canyon National Park high in the Sierra Nevada Mountain Range. As you drive in, you will reach nearly 5,000 feet in elevation, and as the air takes your breath away-you’ll be rewarded with the most amazing views!
What to do in Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks? There aren’t many places where you can walk beneath some of the tallest trees on earth, drive through a fallen giant, peer down the deepest canyons and hike granite mountains! Take a drive along the Kings Canyon scenic byway; a winding road running beside the Kings River. Visit the natural wonder, General Sherman, the largest living tree (by volume). He’s 275 feet tall and 36 feet in diameter at the base.
Top Tip… The National Park Service has a free Mobile app which can guide you through the parks, even without a mobile phone signal. Download the app before your journey and ‘download offline content in the app settings.’
Click here to view our Road Trip Itineraries that explore Sequoia National Park…
Sequoia National Park, California
The Everglades National Park is a vast and unique collection of wildlife in an unusual ecosystem! Overflowing with amazing wildlife and picturesque landscapes, this will be an experience you won’t forget.
What are the Everglades? A network of freshwater wetlands, mangroves and forests compile the Everglades. The southernmost section is one of the most popular among visitors to the park.
What wildlife can be found at Everglades National Park? It’s no surprise that wildlife is abundant out in these wild marshlands. The Florida Panther, Crocodiles, Manatees, 350 species of birds and 50 species of reptiles inhabit this incredible National park. Be careful; you will see that the animals certainly aren’t shy!
Click here to view our Road Trip Itineraries that explore Everglades National Park…
Everglades National Park, Florida
Head to Bryce Canyon National Park, where intricately formed rocks shaped over thousands of years create a landscape that makes you think you’ve left planet Earth!
How far is Bryce Canyon from Las Vegas? You will find Bryce Canyon, which is a 4-hour drive away from Las Vegas at 264 miles away.
Can you drive around Bryce Canyon? Most of the park is best seen by car, and it would take around three hours to drive through it. The entrance fee is $35 per vehicle.
How long do you spend in Bryce Canyon? This is one National Park that you can explore in just a day. If you have more than one day here, that’s great; hike away. For those passing through on your American Road Trip, we advise arriving early to beat any crowds and visiting the visitors centre. Inspiration Point is an amphitheatre in which you can witness the hoodoos.
Click here to view our Road Trip Itineraries that explore Bryce Canyon National Park…
Bryce Canyon National Park, Utah
Visit Joshua Tree National Park, where the landscape looks otherworldly like you’ve entered a Dr Seuss book! Enjoy unusual rock formations, peculiar plants, and views stretching miles over the Coachella Valley.
Where is Joshua Tree National Park? Joshua Tree National Park is straddling California’s Colorado and Mojave Deserts near Palm Springs. The crossover of deserts and ecosystems results in unusual fauna and flora, including the Joshua Tree.
What can you do in Joshua Tree National Park? There are so many trails and hikes to explore within the park for all levels of adventurers. With unusual rock faces, such as Skull Rock, it is clear why the park is well known for its rock climbing! Catch a sunset or sunrise on your road trip through Joshua Tree.
What is the weather like in Joshua Tree National Park? The weather in Joshua Tree National Park can be super hot in the summer and chilly through the winter, but at least the sky remains pretty clear all year round. Though it’s in the middle of the desert, Joshua Tree National Park occasionally witnesses rain and can even see snowfall. The ‘wet season’ runs from December through March.
Click here to view our Road Trip Itineraries that explore Joshua Tree National Park…
Joshua Tree National Park, California
Walk amongst the giants! Get outdoors and re-discover nature at its finest at the top of California, where you can find yourself amongst the world’s tallest living things. Visit Redwoods National Park, home to nearly half of the world’s coast Redwood trees. These giants grow over 350 feet and are well-protected within the National Park.
Where is Redwood National Park? You will find Redwood National Park on the northwestern edge of California, and it’s filled with trees so big they make you feel tiny. There are also 70 miles of coastal trails leading to driftwood-laden shorelines.
When is the best time to visit Redwood National Park? The best time is between late April and September when there is slightly less chance of rain.
Click here to view our Road Trip Itineraries that explore Redwood National Park…
Redwood National Park, California
This National Park is about to blow you away. Grand Teton, Wyoming, is full of pristine lakes and has soaring mountains in every direction. At almost 14,000 feet tall, you can spot which mountain is Grand Teton amongst the 484 square miles of the National Park.
Where is Grand Teton National Park? This exciting Park is located in the northwest of Wyoming. Although it shares boundaries with Yellowstone National Park, each is unique. Grand Teton is a super relaxed, peaceful experience.
What to do at Grand Teton National Park? Great for adrenaline junkies, there is an opportunity for hiking, camping and exploring all over the park. The many trails will lead you to the Teton Range. You can see to Jackson Hole and Yellowstone National Park. Spend a couple of hours driving the scenic loop for 42 Miles of fantastic scenery. Hire a bike for a fast-paced way to tour the park. You can take a leisurely ride along the bike path or go ‘off-roading’ and join the gravel road along the Snake River. Bikes are available to hire from around $40 a day. Guided tours are also available, offering great insight into the park.
Click here to view our Road Trip Itineraries that explore Grand Teton National Park…
Lake in Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming
Visit Canyonlands National Park – the least visited National park in Utah! One of Utah’s’ Mighty 5′, Canyonlands is Utah’s best-kept secret- quiet and undeveloped. You’ll know you’ve arrived once you find the striking red buttes and natural sandy arches!
Where is Canyonlands National Park? To visit Canyonlands National Park on your road trip is easy. Just under 4 hours drive to Salt Lake City, 2 hours 20 minutes from Capitol Reef National Park and 5 hours 20 minutes from Zion National Park.
What to see at Canyonlands National Park? When you visit Canyonlands National Park, Mesa Arch, The White Rim trail, and Grand View Point Overlook, they are at the top of our list. Kayaking, Hiking, Camping, and Cycling are plentiful in these bronze terrains. Finally, top off your day with an evening under the stars!
You should know before you go… The only water available in the park is in the visitors’ centre, so take plenty.
Click here to view our Road Trip Itineraries that explore Canyonlands National Park…
Canyonlands National Park, Utah
Visit Big Bend National Park, the biggest national park in Texas. In the Chihuahuan Desert, you will discover dusty red mountain cliffs, towering river canyons and the mighty Rio Grande.
Where is Big Bend National Park? It lies on the border with Mexico and is separated by, you guessed it, a big bend in the Rio Grande River! Big Bend is a remote National park. Although it’s bigger than Yosemite National Park and the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, it receives just a fraction of the visitors, keeping it quiet and undeveloped. The locals describe it as a ‘forgotten National Park’, but we would describe it as more of a ‘gem’!
What to do at Big Bend National Park? There are many hiking trails around the park; the most rewarding is the ‘Santa Elena Canyon trail’. If the water is low, you can wade into the water where 1500-foot-high walls line the way. There are hot springs in the Rio Grande Village area where you can dip into hot waters. Alternatively, pick up the pace and take a canoe trip along the Rio Grande River.
How much does it cost to enter Big Bend National Park? A fee of $30 per vehicle allows entry for a week.
What’s the weather like at Big Bend National Park? Big Bend is usually a dry place with low humidity. The rainy season is from June to October, when there may be thunderstorms and flash flooding, but this tends to dry quickly in the desert.
This is available on a bespoke tour. Talk to your expert to tailor your road trip if you want to include Big Bend National Park in your itinerary.
Big Bend National Park, Santa Elena Canyon and the Rio Grande
This impressive National Park is full of otherworldly landscapes and crazy rock formations. It will make you feel as though you’re on another planet.
Where is Badlands National Park? You will reach the dramatic landscapes of Badlands National Park in South Dakota, just a 1.5-hour drive away from Mount Rushmore, a 1-hour 40-minute drive from The Crazy Horse Memorial and Custer State Park, and 4.5 hours from Cowboy-town Cheyenne.
What to do in Badlands National Park? The park offers many different hiking trails and routes for all levels of expertise. The most popular is the Badlands Loop Road, which passes numerous vista points, trailheads, and prairie dog towns! The Badlands Loop Drive takes over an hour to complete, though you’ll want to spend a couple of hours near here to allow photo stops en route.
Top Tip for Badlands… Go for the views, but stay for the sunset! Some great spots to view Badlands National Park include Conata Basin Overlook, Pinnacles Overlook and Norbeck Pass, which offer great sunset views.
Click here to view our Road Trip Itineraries that explore Badlands National Park…
Badlands National Park, South Dakota
Road trip through the best national parks in America. Showcasing the country’s most breathtaking landscapes, diverse wildlife, and unforgettable outdoor experiences. From the towering peaks of Yellowstone and Grand Teton to the rather dramatic canyons of Grand Canyon and Zion and the lush forests of the Great Smoky Mountains, Ultimately, every stop is spectacular.
Whether you’re hiking, wildlife spotting, or taking in scenic drives, you’ll undoubtedly find America’s National Parks offer one of the greatest road trip experiences of all time. So, pack your bags, hit the open road, and explore the natural wonders of America’s best National Parks!
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