Tag: Parks

Find Out Which Of The 10 US National Parks Matches Your Vibe In Seconds With Our New Quiz
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The United States is home to 63 incredible national parks, each a treasure trove of stunning landscapes, unique wildlife, and unforgettable adventures. From the majestic peaks of the Rockies to the otherworldly deserts of California, the options are almost endless.

Every year, millions of travelers flock to these natural wonders, making them some of the most sought-after destinations in the country.

But with so many epic choices, travelers often face a tough question: which park is the right one for my trip? That’s where we at Travel Off Path come in.

We created a brand-new interactive quiz designed to cut through the noise and match you with your perfect national park in under 30 seconds.

America’s 10 Most Popular Parks

To give you an idea of the incredible options available, here are the 10 most-visited national parks in the United States, currently drawing the largest crowds with their world-renowned scenery.
1. Great Smoky Mountains National Park
2. Grand Canyon National Park
3. Zion National Park
4. Yellowstone National Park
5. Rocky Mountain National Park
6. Yosemite National Park
7. Acadia National Park
8. Grand Teton National Park
9. Joshua Tree National Park
10. Olympic National Park
But Which One Is Right For You?

Seeing the list of the most popular parks is a great starting point, but it doesn’t answer the most important question: which one fits your unique travel style?

A park’s popularity doesn’t guarantee it’s your perfect match. The last thing you want is to book a vacation centered on strenuous activity when you were really hoping for a more relaxed vibe.

Choosing a park that aligns with your interests is the secret to an amazing trip. In a year where some parks are seeing absolutely massive crowds, knowing your priorities can help you find a better experience.

What kind of scenery calls to you?

🏔️

Towering Mountains

Granite peaks, alpine lakes, and dramatic ranges.

🏜️

Canyons & Deserts

Vast canyons, red rock cliffs, and unique desert plants.

🌊

Coasts & Forests

Rugged ocean shorelines meeting lush, diverse forests.

🌎

Geology & Wildlife

Geysers, wildlife corridors, and ancient, rolling hills.

How do you want to spend your day?

🧗

Challenging Hikes

I want strenuous, iconic hikes with epic rewards.

🚗

Scenic Drives

Accessible viewpoints and easier, beautiful walks.

🗺️

Diverse Exploration

A bit of everything! From coasts to mountains or climbing to stargazing.

And your #1 priority is…?

🐻

Iconic Wildlife

To see bison, bears, and elk in their natural habitat.

📸

Famous Landmarks

Seeing those world-famous, postcard-perfect views.

🌳

Lush Forests & Water

Dense forests, rainforests, and waterfalls are my top priority.

✨

A Unique Vibe

Seeking otherworldly landscapes and a bit more solitude.

Powered by Travel Off Path

Do you want to see iconic wildlife like bears and bison, or are you hoping to find a unique slice of solitude under a blanket of stars? Answering these questions first is key.

How Our National Park Matcher Works

We’ve designed this quiz to be incredibly simple and lightning-fast. In just three easy steps, our tool gets to the heart of what you’re looking for in a national park adventure. You’ll tell us:
1. Your ideal scenery: Are you dreaming of towering mountains, dramatic canyons, rugged coastlines, or unique geological wonders?
2. Your preferred activity level: Do you want challenging hikes, scenic drives with easy walks, or a diverse mix of exploration?
3. Your number one priority: Is seeing iconic wildlife at the top of your list, or are you more focused on famous landmarks, an East Coast experience, or finding a unique, otherworldly vibe?
Based on your answers, our matcher instantly analyzes your preferences and reveals your ideal national park. We’ll show you why it’s the perfect fit and provide a description of what makes that park so special, helping you kickstart your planning with confidence.

Ready to stop guessing and start exploring? Take our quiz above and discover your perfect national park adventure!

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September 7, 2025
These Are The 11 National Parks You Will Need A Reservation To Visit This Summer

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There’s nowhere better to be on a hot summer’s day than in a beautiful American National Park.

But if you’re planning a spontaneous day trip or weekend away, then it’s time to think again.

The team at Mount Rainier National Park in Washington just announced that visitors will now need advanced reservations to visit this summer.

That makes a total of 11 national parks that are using a reservation system this year. And some reservation spots go fast!

Here’s the complete list:

Mount Rainier National Park

Mount Rainier is the most recent national park to join the pre-booking system.

You will need a reservation to enter the famous Paradise Corridor within the park from May 24-Sept 2 between the hours of 7 am and 3 pm. The same system will be in place to enter the Sunrise Corridor between July 4 – Sept 2.

Each reservation costs $2 and gives you access to the area for a two-hour entry period.

Pedestrians and bikers are exempt from reservations, so if you can’t get a reservation spot then why not hike or cycle to these areas instead?

Acadia National Park

Acadia National Park in Maine is a national park that covers a stretch of rocky coastline. It is the 5th most popular national park in the U.S.

Driving the Park Loop Road to watch the sunrise from Cadillac Mountain is the most popular experience here. But you will need a reservation to take a vehicle on Cadillac Summit Road.

Each reservation will cost $6 and reservations are required from May 22 – October 27. You can choose from a sunset or daytime reservation ticket, with each offering different timed entry slots.

Carlsbad Caverns National Park

Carlsbad Caverns is an incredible underground national park that has to be seen to be believed. You’ll find spectacular limestone chambers, stalactites and stalagmites as well as tunnels to explore here.

Timed entry reservations are required to enter Carlsbad Caverns National Park no matter what the time of year. You can book a slot up to 30 days in advance and reservations cost $1 plus the $15 national park entrance fee.

Arches National Park

This national park is located in the heart of Utah and is most famous for its balanced rocks and easy to access hiking trails.

You cannot enter any part of this national park without a timed reservation slot between 7am and 4pm. This applies from April 1- October 31, 2024. Each reservation will cost $2.

If you want to visit the park but there are no reservation slots remaining, then you could always plan a sunset hike instead. No reservations required!

Glacier National Park

The Glacier National Park is obscenely beautiful, thanks to its blue lakes and glacier-topped mountains.

Popular with hikers and cyclists, the Glacier National Park also contains what has been awarded the best scenic drive in the U.S. But to try it yourself, you’ll need a reservation.

Timed entry reservations are required to drive along the Going-to-the-Sun Road. You’ll also need a vehicle reservation for Many Glacier, and North Fork.

The cost for each reservation is $2 and your reservation is valid for one full day. This reservation fee is in addition to the park entrance fee.

Shenandoah National Park

This national park is actually a preserved section of the larger Blue Ridge Mountains in Virginia. People visit for the views and the hiking trails, but it is perhaps best known for the exciting Skyline Drive road.

Old Rag is the most popular hiking route in the park. But you will now need a reservation to enjoy it between March 1 and November 30.

Only 800 tickets are available each day, with reservations costing just $1.

Haleakala National Park

This is a spectacular volcanic national park on the Hawaiian island of Maui. People travel from across the U.S. to climb the volcano and watch the sunrise above the clouds.

But with so many travelers keen to enjoy this bucket list experience you now need an advance reservation to drive to the summit before sunrise.

When you have this reservation you can enter the park between the hours of 3 am to 7 am. Reservations can be made up to 60 days in advance and although the tickets are technically free you will need to pay a $1 booking fee.

Want to avoid the crowds? Skip the sunrise crew and enjoy a near-identical experience at sunset instead.

Rocky Mountain National Park

Aside from its outstanding natural beauty, the Rocky Mountain National Park is famous for being one of the highest national parks in the U.S.

It’s a dream for hikers, while less active outdoor adventurers dream of driving the Ridge Top Trail.

From May 24 – October 20, you will need to secure a permit to access any area of the Rocky Mountain National Park. This is to limit congestion.

Each daily reservation costs $2, which is in addition to the park’s $25 daily entry fee.

Yosemite National Park

Yosemite National Park is one of the most popular in the United States.

But the sheer number of tourists this attracts means that reservations are needed to control crowd numbers.

Visitors will need reservations to enter Yosemite in February to see Horsetail Falls as well as from mid-April to October.

Reservations cost $2 per person and are available from mid-January for the summer season. With entrance queues exceeding 3 hours on certain days in 2023, this system is well worth using.

Zion National Park

Photo by David Guest

Reservations are needed to access certain parts, but not all, of Zion National Park. You currently need a reservation to hike any one of the 3 hiking trails in the park.

This is incredibly popular as the Zion Narrows hike is considered one of the highlights of the park.

But all other areas of the park, as well as the park shuttle, can be enjoyed reservation-free.

If you want to hike here, then you’ll have to pick your preferred trail and apply for a specific permit. These are available via a lottery-style system and cost $6 each.

Muir Woods National Monument

Muir Woods National Monument technically doesn’t require a reservation for access, but you do need to make a reservation for parking at this incredibly popular attraction.

Reservations are required year-round but can be booked 3 months in advance.

They sell out fast, particularly during peak periods, so it’s worth making your reservation as early as possible so you’re not disappointed.

Tor Brierley

Tor has been writing for more than 20 years and has visited 25 countries (and counting!) She specializes in European and family travel and never says no to new adventures.

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April 6, 2024
Why These 3 National Parks In Alaska Are Setting All-Time Visitor Records

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While hordes of travelers will be flocking to beaches this spring, let’s not forget how awesome U.S. National Parks can be.

Tourism records are being shattered all across the globe, but some surprising statistics released by the National Park Service showcase one state with a few records of its own.

Alaska may seem far-flung and inaccessible, but that’s really not the case at all.

This massive state may be set apart from the mainland, but it’s not stopping travelers from exploring what some say is the last frontier of America.

Glacier Bay National Park

It’s hard to comprehend the sheer size of Alaska. Try to wrap your brain around this – Alaska is home to 8 National Parks and Glacier Bay alone is 3.3 million acres of scenic fjords, breathtaking mountains, pristine calm waters, and crystalline glaciers.

@nicolemsunderland Prettiest National Park in my opinion 🥰 #glacierbaynationalpark #glacierbay #glacier #alaska #alaskancruise #hollandamerica ♬ original sound – Nicki | Luxury Travel

That is both figuratively and literally the tip of the iceberg, as this massive park is just a fraction of a 25 million-acre World Heritage Site, which is one of the biggest protected natural areas in the world.

One glance at Glacier Bay makes it easy to see why it’s worthy of a bucket list. The park welcomed 703,659 visitors, and among the most common ways to visit is by cruise, a mega-popular method of seeing Alaska’s top natural wonders.

Who wouldn’t want to wake up to some of the most stunning scenery in America? And of course during cooler months, it’s nice to have a heater!

@erikconover POV waking up in Glacier Bay, Alaska. Doesn’t this view make you want to sail with @Princess Cruises #PrincessPartner #MedallionClass #RoyalPrincess #PrincessCruises #CruiseTok #Cruise #CruiseShip #AlaskanCruise #realestate #luxurylife #luxurytravel #luxuryrealestate ♬ Sky Aesthetic – Tollan Kim

Although, it’s just as fun, if not more, to get up close and personal exploring the wild, remote land for the ultimate adventure.

There are no designated trails in the park, yet beaches, meadows and glacier-free areas are mostly walkable.

Klondike Gold Rush

Visitors trekking through the Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park get a history lesson, all while enjoying the incredible sights and sounds of nature.

@kelseyrosedeleon White Pass Railway | Skagway, Alaska #alaska #ak #usa #travel #traveltiktok #cruise #alaskacruise #alaskatravel #trip #vacation #holiday #hollandamericaline #traveler #mountain #whitepassrailway #adventure #alaskalife #cruiseship #train #trainride #skagway #skagwayalaska #skagwaywhitepass ♬ FEEL THE GROOVE – Queens Road, Fabian Graetz

Throughout the park are remnants of its historical past as thousands of miners took part in an extensive gold rush well over a century ago.

Klondike, as we’ll call it, begins in the small charming town of Skagway home to about 1,000 locals and over 1 million annual visitors.

The park itself received 1.3 million visitors in 2023 to be exact. Although small in size, this town packs a punch with awesome attractions.

While it’s no epic European train, inarguably, the White Pass & Yukon Route doesn’t receive the attention this unbelievably stunning route deserves.

@travelwithmevbylisar Beautiful train ride #royalcaribbean #ovationoftheseas #skagway #whitepassrailway #train #snowmountain ♬ Beautiful Nature – Steven Solveig

Rave reviews abound for both the train and Klondike with park guests highlighting horseback riding, wildlife viewing and ‘gorgeous views’.

Parks Of The Northwest Arctic Borough

Even some of the least visited National Parks are seeing a surge and setting new records. The Northwest Arctic Borough is the perfect example of why some may see Alaska as a far flung destination.

While cities such as Fairbanks and Anchorage are relatively easy to reach, going off-path in Alaska is another story entirely.

@timmertravels Follow for more travel inspiration! #travel #vacation #alaska #nationalpark #wildlife #kobukvalley #mountains #hiking #outdoors #explore #rivers #wilderness #sanddunes #tundra ♬ snowfall transition remix – cropz

But as the famous Ralph Waldo Emerson saying goes, “it’s not the destination, it’s the journey”.

Reaching the Northwest Arctic Borough can be a trek, but this stunning region of the state is home to a cluster of parks not often visited, yet visited enough last year to claim new records.

Kobuk National Park is only reachable by plane, giving these parks ultimate bucket list status. The other pair are Noatak National Preserve and Cape Krusenstern National Monument, reachable by plane or boat in the summer.

Compared to mega popular National Parks, like Yellowstone, the parks visitation numbers look low simply due to the fact they’re harder to reach.

@outdoor.kirbys #kobukvalley #sanddunes #kirbysclass #nature #awesome ♬ midnight city (slowed reverb) (feat. kadirhho) – ciaffa & fedo DJ

Those who have made the arduous trek loved ‘flightseeing’ and immersing themselves in the wild to see untouched nature in its finest form, where some parts are so remote you could hear a pin drop in the forest.

Kobuk, in particular, is home to stunning sand dunes that are completely unexpected in this climate.

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March 8, 2024
These Are The Top 7 National Parks To Visit This Spring

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Allowing the sheer majesty of America’s national parks to steal your breath and refresh your spirit is an experience that travelers from all over long for.

While nature is magnificent year-round, variables like seasonal closures, crowds, and weather conditions are important to consider when planning a trip.

We know that as winter thaws out, everyone is itching to venture outside–that’s why we compiled our list of the top 7 national parks to visit.

Factors like best weather, seasonal natural phenomena, entry requirements, and upcoming events were prioritized when creating the following list.

Cuyahoga National Park

We all dream of the surreal landscapes of national parks out west, but have you heard of this midwestern gem?

Located about an hour south of Cleveland, you’ll discover rushing waterfalls and interesting land formations carved from glaciers at Cuyahoga.

But the real reason to visit this season is that the park falls in the path of totality for the much anticipated 2024 solar eclipse.

On April 8, at 3:13 the moon will completely cover the sun.

Visitors can expect totality to last around 4 minutes and should prepare for traffic and crowds as many will gather to witness the eclipse.

Great Smoky Mountain National Park

The gentle mountains of Appalachia are the perfect place to trade life’s stressors for crisp springs, dense forests, and secluded waterfalls.

Great Smoky Mountain National Park is home to over 1500 species of flowering plants that come alive in spring (more biodiversity than any other park in North America!).

If you can visit on May 1-4, you’ll catch the national park’s 74th Annual Spring Wildlife Flower Pilgrimage.

This festival includes professionally guided walks educating on local flora and fauna, exhibitions, and various workshops on everything from pottery to foraging.

Great Sand Dunes National Park

Visiting this lesser-known national park is a unique experience.

Home to the tallest sand dunes in the country, you can hike to the top for a surreal view of the neighboring dunes and mountains.

Adrenaline seekers can rent equipment and partake in the fun of sandboarding down the dunes.

Located 200 miles south of Denver, spring is the best time to visit this national park before the weather becomes uncomfortably hot.

Springtime visitors will also benefit from arriving in time to tube on Medano Creek– a seasonal river created from mountain snow melt.

Hot Springs National Park

If chasing the rare eclipse totality is a priority for you, this underrated national park is a great spring destination.

One of only 2 national parks that will experience totality this year, you can watch the eclipse from Hot Springs on April 8th.

The charmed surrounding town of Hot Springs, Arkansas will be hosting all kinds of eclipse festivities including music festivals and vendor booths.

Spring is also the perfect time to enjoy soaking in the glorious hot springs while daytime temperatures are still cool.

Joshua Tree National Park

This surreal desert ecosystem is best visited in spring before the stifling heat of summer sets in.

You’ll find all kinds of weird and wacky plant life among these landscapes, from various cacti to the iconic gnarled Joshua trees.

Another benefit of visiting in spring is to see the flowers blooming in a neon pop of color reminiscent of the trees of The Lorax movie.

And while more national parks than ever have called for timed entries and advance reservations, Joshua Tree does not currently require either.

Yellowstone National Park

If you want more solitude and fewer selfie sticks, spring is the time to visit this wildly popular park.

Yellowstone is home to the greatest wildlife density in the lower 48 states, and visiting in April is a magical time to see baby animals.

Young bison nurse at their mothers’ sides, bear cubs crawl out of their dens, and wolf packs play with their young during this special time of year.

Death Valley

This national park lives up to its name as its 120 degree daytime highs can be dangerous in the summertime.

Death Valley’s landscape is fascinating and varied–you can check out the lowest point in the North America (Bad Water Basin), or look out over rolling hills and geological formations.

One of the most epic places in the US for stargazing, this national park is hosting its Dark Sky Festival March 1-3 this year.

The festival will include educational talks on astronomy and the opportunity to learn from scientists out in the park.

Wildflower blooms bring the national park into full color throughout the spring months.

And if conditions are perfect, you may witness a rare super bloom–a desert phenomena when an unusally high number of wildflowers bloom all at once.

If you’re willing to brave potential crowds for a deal, all the national parks will have free entry April 20, 2024 to kick off national park week.

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March 5, 2024
These Are The Top National Parks For Your Chance To See The Spring Superbloom

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As the common saying goes, there are only two guarantees in life – death and taxes. Traveling the world can be a blast, but it can also be a big letdown.

Perhaps you take a trip to Alaska, Iceland, or Canada in hopes of seeing the mesmerizing Northern Lights but come up empty-handed.

Not every place is always as it appears, and it becomes even more unpredictable with natural phenomena.

Let’s be real – how often is the weather report wrong? A lot! When it comes to gorgeous wildflower superblooms, very specific conditions have to be met.

California is one of the most reliable states in terms of giving visitors these out-of-this-world colorful photo ops, but stretches throughout the Southwest as well.

We have buzzed with the bees, Rain Danced for the gods, and stuck our fingers to the wind to compile our best guesswork of giving travelers their best shot to witness one of the most scenic natural sights at U.S. National Parks.

Lassen Volcanic National Park

California may make headlines for all the wrong reasons but she sure is a beaut! Home to stunning National Parks, some more popular than others, you can’t go wrong immersing yourself in nature in this state.

Not a household name, Lassen Volcanic Park in Northern California is among your best bets to witness a superbloom.

Known for spectacular wildflowers, visitors tend to see them bloom in the summer months. However, California has been receiving more rainfall and may start to see vibrant fields and hills full of blue lupines, orange and yellow monkey flowers, and of course, the California poppy.

Channels Island National Park

Those ready for an adventure should look no further than Channel Islands National Park off the California coast between Los Angeles and Santa Barbara.

These standalone islands may not be a household name either, but you’ll be telling all your friends about it should you time your visit right to witness a superbloom.

Home to amazing landscapes incomparable to any other park on this list, even if you do miss the ‘bloom you won’t be that upset.

This park consists of 5 separate islands, all home to wildflowers consisting of seaside daisies and beach primroses blooming through winter and spring.

Big Bend National Park

Let’s give California a breather for a minute and go deep, deep, deep into Texas away from all the major cities.

Big Bend National Park is tucked away in West Texas near the border of Mexico and has been trending on social media due to its beautiful scenery for selfie-takers.

Despite its remote location, it’s one of the best places to see the state flower explode in color – the pretty Lupinus subcarnosus, otherwise simply known as bluebonnets.

While it’s all but guaranteed to see these blue beauties lining desolate West Texas highways, bluebonnets transform hillsides into an otherworldly blue hue through the end of March in the right conditions.

Many species of wildflowers thrive in the park, giving the usual green landscape a new light of color.

Pinnacles National Park

An hour and a half south of San Jose, California lies a phenomenal National Park with wondrous sites perfect for wildlife spotting, cave exploring, and rock climbing.

Wandering this vast park will make you feel as if you’re on another planet with its wild landscape of gnarly rock formations.

Wildflower season only adds to the allure with its already stunning scenery. Here, however, outdoor lovers can experience the rare Yellow mariposa lily and California jewelflower in addition to more common colorful wildflowers like lupines, poppies, and monkey flowers.

Joshua Tree National Park

This quirky side of California isn’t just upscale desert towns and world-famous music festivals. Joshua Tree National Park, just outside of Palm Springs, is one of the best gambles to witness a superbloom.

Commonly a Spring destination given the great weather, eye-popping flower blooms are just another excuse to visit.

Named after the odd-looking Joshua trees, nature lovers have found the right place with endless sights for photo-ops given the additional 250 species of wildflowers to see, including the California poppy.

Flowers tend to bloom in early spring in lower elevations, rising to higher elevations into the summer months.

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February 12, 2024
These Are The 5 Warmest U.S. National Parks To Visit This Winter

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Winter is a fantastic time to visit many national parks in the United States.

Some of the most popular national parks are much less crowded and significantly cheaper to visit during the winter, although you may have to contend with cold weather.

But there are plenty of national parks that enjoy warm weather during the winter. These are parks that may otherwise be unbearably hot during the summer, making winter the best time to visit.

Here are the warmest national parks to check out this winter:

1. Death Valley National Park

After being closed since August due to flooding caused by summer storms, Death Valley National Park is expected to reopen on October 15, just in time for visitors to enjoy it this winter.

Death Valley is famous for being the hottest place on Earth, with a record high of 134° F. During the summer, the average daily high is as much as 116° F. Even in the spring and fall, daytime temperatures regularly exceed 90° F, making it difficult to enjoy being outside at this national park.

This makes winter the best time to visit Death Valley National Park. The “coldest” months to visit are December and January, when the average daily high is still 67° F.

2. Everglades National Park

Another warm national park to visit during the winter is Florida’s Everglades National Park. Located about one hour from Miami, this national park is the largest area of tropical wilderness in the United States, known for its unique climate and abundance of wildlife.

During the summer, the heat and humidity at this national park are out of control, with temperatures regularly exceeding 90° F for six months out of the year.

However, winter is the milder dry season, where you can still enjoy warm weather but not have to deal with excessive humidity or rain. From December through February, the average high at Everglades National Park is around 77° F.

3. Saguaro National Park

Another great national park to visit in the winter is Saguaro National Park in Arizona. Located just outside Tucson, this national park is home to the largest cacti in the United States.

While during the summer, it can be hard to appreciate the desert beauty of this national park with temperatures exceeding 100° F, winter is the perfect time to go.

In the winter, the average weather is in the mid-sixties and sunny.

4. Big Bend National Park

Big Bend National Park in Texas is another warm national park to check out during the winter. Although it has an isolated location in West Texas, it’s worth the long drive to visit this beautiful national park.

Big Bend is known for being one of the best stargazing locations in the United States, thanks to the lack of light pollution. You can also enjoy hiking, hot springs, and more at this national park. During the summer, temperatures at Big Bend can soar above 90° F.

However, it’s much cooler in the winter with average temperatures in the low sixties during the day.

5. Joshua Tree National Park

Finally, California’s Joshua Tree National Park is best visited in the winter. This is another scorching-hot place to go during the summer, with temperatures around 100° F. It’s hard to enjoy the otherworldly landscapes of this national park that’s about 2.5 hours from Los Angeles when it’s so hot.

But things cool off significantly during the winter, while still remaining warm and pleasant. During December and January, the average daily high is in the low sixties.

This makes winter the best time to go and enjoy Joshua Tree National Park.

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October 12, 2023
Why Winter Is The Best Time To Visit These 5 Popular U.S. National Parks

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Winter may not be the season you think of when it comes to visiting U.S. national parks.

Road tripping to a national park is a classic summer pastime, but you might be surprised to learn that winter can actually be a better time to plan your trip, especially for budget travelers.

Why? Winter is the off season at most national parks in the United States, which means that you can enjoy lower prices and fewer crowds.

Many national parks look different (but equally as beautiful) in the winter compared to the more popular summer season. As long as you don’t mind bundling up for the cold weather, you can enjoy a great winter trip to U.S. national parks.

Here are the national parks that are best visited during the winter in order to save money, according to a study from The Manual.

1. Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park is America’s first national park and one of its most popular. November and December are the best months to visit Yellowstone to save money, with average hotel rates at 50% compared to the peak months of June and July.

Although Yellowstone gets very cold during the winter and some roads become impossible from mid-December to mid-March, a November or early December trip is a great time to visit to save money and still enjoy this iconic national park.

2. Rocky Mountain National Park

Rocky Mountain National Park in Colorado is the fourth most-visited national park in the United States. Like Yellowstone, it’s most expensive to visit in June and July.

But hotel rates in nearby Estes Park (the town closest to the national park) fall from $180 per night to $85 per night during the months of November, December, and January.

Winter is a fantastic time to visit Rocky Mountain National Park because of the beautiful snow-capped peaks and landscapes and numerous outdoor recreation options. You can try snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, sledding, and more during the winter.

3. Zion National Park

Summer is a popular time to visit Zion National Park, along with spring and fall. In fact, hotel rates near Zion in the towns of St. George and Hurricane are highest from February through April, while they are 25% to 30% less in December and January.

Winter is a good time to visit Zion because, unlike the previous two parks on this list, the weather is not nearly as cold in December and January (although you’ll still want to bundle up!)

Zion’s rocky red cliffs and peaks are even prettier during the winter when covered by a light dusting of snow, and you can enjoy this park without the usual major crowds.

4. Grand Canyon National Park

Grand Canyon National Park in Arizona is the second most popular national park in the United States. Millions of visitors flock to this national park every year to see the iconic landscapes of the Grand Canyon, which is 277 miles long and 18 miles wide.

The most expensive time to visit this national park is April, May, and June when hotel rates top $200 per night. However, in December and January, you can find hotels nearby for as little as $75 per night and enjoy this popular national park without the crowds.

5. Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Finally, Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a great one to visit in the winter. This national park on the border of Tennessee and North Carolina is the most visited in the world.

Peak season is July through October, but those who visit during the winter months of December and January can find better deals on hotels in nearby Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg.

Being located in the Southern United States, winter in Great Smoky Mountains National Park is not quite as cold as other parts of the country, although it can still be quite chilly.

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September 17, 2023
The Best National Parks To See The Fall Foliage This Year

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Some people live for summer, and others can’t wait for it to end. If you’re the latter, you’ve been eyeing your jackets, waiting to buy all the pumpkin spice products, and eager for the changing seasons.

Of course, there’s so much to love about fall. For instance, cooler temperatures, the beginning of the holiday season, and one of the most exciting parts, the fall foliage.

It’s coming up on that magical time of the season when the leaves start turning colors. It’s one of nature’s most stunning performances as the once-green leaves turn to vibrant yellows, oranges, reds, and soft browns.

And do you know the best places to see and experience the fall foliage?

You guessed it, national parks. Continue reading about which parks you should schedule a visit to experience this once-a-year event.

New River Gorge National Park, West Virginia

While visiting this national park, there are many ways to view the colorful archaic trees. A common way to explore the park is by walking along one of the many hiking trails.

Another great route across the park is kayaking through one of the world’s oldest rivers.

If you have fall allergies and don’t want to stay outside too long, you can still admire the beautiful landscape. You have the option of cruising in your car along the park’s driving routes.

The best time to visit this park is mid-October.

Zion National Park in Utah

This well-known park offers visitors a breathtaking canyon scenery along the Virgin River.

The colors of the park coordinate with each other as the yellow leaves of the aspen trees match well with the reddish canyon walls.

Strolling along the Virgin River will give you one of the best foliage views.

The ideal time to visit this magical place is late October to early November.

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Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado

You’ll want to visit Rocky Mountain National Park in Colorado if your favorite color is yellow. During the foliage, the forest becomes drenched in yellow leaves.

This golden color show can be witnessed as early as late August and continues to late September.

Traveling through this park can consist of going along many high-elevation trails. And all the trails offer spectacular views.

The park is most known for Trail Ridge Road. It is one of the highest continuously paved roads in America, with an elevation of 12,183 feet.

Acadia National Park, Maine

One of the four national parks in Maine is Acadia National Park, which gives off a colorful display of orange, yellow, and red leaves during the fall.

Located on the rocky coast of Maine, it is a great place to escape reality and drive along the road for scenic views.

You can also experience the colors by hiking or biking over 100 miles of trails in the national park.

The best time for a visit is the middle of October.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Border of North Carolina and Tennessee

With an elevation of 4,000 feet, the leaf colors change at the highest points and make their way down the mountain.

The park has some of the oldest and largest trees in the country, and they do not disappoint when their leaves turn to deep reds and lively oranges and yellows.

While color changes start to happen in late September, the best time to go is early November.

Cuyahoga Valley National Park, Ohio

The park is filled with sugar maples and Sassafras trees that turn to dark oranges and fiery reds.

A short drive outside of Cleveland, Ohio, you can enjoy a day of hiking along the Brandywine Gorge Trail until you reach Brandywine Falls.

You might have difficulty putting your phone away along the trail because you’ll want to capture all the vibrant colors.

The best time to visit is late September through November.

Guadalupe Mountains National Park, Texas

While old Western movies will have you believe that Texas is a mostly desert landscape, that is quite the contrary.

The Guadalupe Mountains National Park’s McKittrick Canyon is the not-so-obvious spot for fall foliage. Yet it’s spectacular.

The park has a mixture of evergreen green and deciduous trees, but their maple trees are the ones that call the most attention.

In the park, you get the full range of fall colors, and the best time to visit is mid-October to mid-November.

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August 16, 2023
These 3 Stunning National Parks Are Best To Visit In The Fall

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With summer crowds beginning to thin out and crisp air emerging, Fall is the perfect month to explore the breathtaking National Parks of America.

U.S. News and Travel Report evaluated the best places to visit in Fall 2023 alongside expert insights and feedback, highlighting three head-turning parks as a result.

Whether a seasoned backpacker searching to witness Autumn’s colorful display or just generally keen to explore such parks without getting hot and sweaty hassle-free, it’s time to put on your walking boots and check them out:

Seattle’s Mount Rainier National Park

Although September at Mount Rainer is considered ‘shoulder season’, it’s a time of captivating natural beauty which can be enjoyed for just $15 a ticket.

The Fall paints a vibrant setting of colors, with temperatures spanning from the mid-50s to low-70s, making it the ideal time to drive or trail up to Sunrise 14,410 feet high and drink in the jaw-dropping views when hitting the top.

Note: Visitors should remain cautious during this time. The weather is known to be unpredictable, with snowfalls starting as early as September.

Dining inside the park is typically limited. Although, during the Autumn season, there’s usually more space to enjoy the flavors of the Pacific Northwest in the year-round dining rooms. Tourists can heat and nourish themselves by delving into cedar plank trout, bison stew, buffalo meatloaf, and more.

Not forgetting, picnic lovers wanting to save cash are in for a treat. There are numerous scenic spots to enjoy pre-packed meals, including the Jackson Visitor Center at Paradise or Kautz Creek, Longmire. Here, hot springs and a historical museum can also be found.

For the more adventurous travelers, camping is available for just $20 a plot, spread across four tranquil areas in the park.

But, beyond its convenience, it’s vital to note that the natural beauty in the park is unparalleled. Mount Rainier National Park is a must-visit destination. Its serene landscapes boast dramatic waterfalls, sky-high mountains, and luscious forests full of wildlife — coyotes, bobcats, black beats, mountain lions, etc., — rejuvenate the souls of all who venture there.

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California’s Sequoia National Park

Sequoia National Park illustrates the lasting impact of nature’s grandeur. Located just 80 miles from Fresno, California, this enticing natural park can be found in the southern Sierra Nevada area, whereby humongous trees, including one touching the havens at 275 feet, can be found for just $20 per person.

The park was discovered in the 1890s, boasting the title of the second oldest national park in the U.S.A. Its neighboring Kings Canyon National Park, established in 1940, later came together with Sequoia to further enrich the experience.

Beyond the forested areas are captivating caves that embrace the charm of snowshoeing, sustaining appeal whatever the weather. Visitors may even bump into beavers, deer, badgers, black bears, and wolverines while on their travels.

Those excited about the wilderness may enjoy camping at one of the fourteen campgrounds in the park. Picnic supplies can easily be purchased from markets close to the park, or enjoy the many dining options available inside for a more refined setting. The Peaks Restaurant at Wuksachi Lodge demands a visit.

Depending on fitness levels, navigating Sequoia is achievable by car or foot, ensuring untroubled access to its compelling landmarks is thorough and convenient.

Arizona’s Grand Canyon National Park

Grand Canyon National Park is an iconic natural wonder, alluring visitors with its beauty for just $20 a ticket, welcoming more than 4 million visitors annually.

The park stretches across 277 miles of river, approximately 18 miles in with and a mile deep. This breathtaking canyon has been shaped by the Colorado River for millions of years and is labeled as a UNESCO heritage site.

The Fall season, from September to November, is the perfect time to explore this natural marvel, exuding its brilliance under cooler temperatures and fewer crowds in a more intimate atmosphere.

Travelers can venture here without breaking the bank. Campground reservations instead of expensive hotel rooms provide pocket-friendly lodging solutions. As does the three shuttle bus service that goes from place to place, ensuring travelers view all the park has to offer effortlessly.

The South Rim of the Grand Canyon flaunts many shops and restaurants, whereby visitors can stock up on supplies and enjoy a comfortable experience when exploring this remarkable natural wonder.

Overall, as the summer crowds lesson and the beauty of fall emerges, the upcoming season becomes an appealing time to explore all of these three National Parks of America, bestowing memories to treasure for a lifetime.

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August 10, 2023
These Are The 7 Most Popular National Parks To Visit In Canada This Year
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With summer just around the corner, many are finalizing their summer travel plans. Some will head abroad, and some plan to stick close to home, but regardless of where people are planning on traveling, it’s clear that a massive number of people will take a trip this summer.

While America’s national park system gets a lot of love from travelers both domestic and international, the more popular sites will likely suffer from over-tourism, leaving a visit that could be loud, crowded, and stressful.

So, if you are looking to get out into nature you could check out some of the U.S. national parks that are less crowded and underrated, or you could head north and check out some of Canada’s postcard-perfect national parks instead.

With 37 national parks scattered across the country, Canada’s park system offers some fantastic nature, epic views, and great chances to get outside and fill your lungs with crisp fresh air. There is a wide range of natural beauty to enjoy, and the parks offer up some stunning sights, from lakes, glaciers, mountains, and everything else you could want.

This summer is a great time for American travelers to visit our neighbor to the north, from the favorable exchange rate and cheap flights to the possibility of driving across the border to avoid flying altogether. So, if a visit to Canada is on the table this year, what better way to explore the beautiful nature of this country than by checking out some of it’s national parks?

Here are the most popular parks in Canada, based on visitor statistics from April 2022 to March 2023:

1. Banff National Park – Alberta

As the most popular national park in Canada, Banff sees a lot of visitors, last year 4,130,081 people came to explore this park full of natural beauty, and it’s likely this year that number will only increase.

Famous for its otherworldly colored lakes, and numerous outdoor adventure options, this Canadian Rockies gem deserves all the attention it receives. Visitors shouldn’t miss a trip to the stunning town of Banff, and the Upper Hot Springs as well.

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2. Jasper National Park – Alberta

Jasper National Park is famous for being the world’s second-largest dark sky preserve, and the largest national park in the Canadian Rockies. With a massive 2,415,463 visitors last year, this is one park that can get crowded, so if you are lucky enough to plan a trip here, make the preparations early to avoid disappointment.

Come to experience the stunning mountain peaks and wide range of wildlife, and enjoy the over 11,000 square kilometers of beauty.

3. Pacific Rim National Park Reserve – British Columbia

With over 500 square kilometers of rocky ocean shoreline and dense forest, it’s easy to see the draw of this national park. Located on the west coast of Vancouver Island, Pacific Rim is known for its powerful winter squalls, diverse marine life, and trees that are hundreds of years old.

With an estimated visitor count last year of 1,163,362, Pacific Rim is popular, so plan early if you are heading there this summer.

4. Saguenay-St. Lawrence Marine Park – Quebec

An estimated 1,070,634 people visited this epic national park last year, an almost 25% increase from the previous year. Many come hoping for a chance to spot the whales that call these waters home.

With over 2200 species, Saguenay is considered one of the best places in the world for whale watching. You can also hop aboard a sailboat and ride the wind in the Estuary, or enjoy nature with your feet firmly planted on land.

5. Mount Revelstoke National Park and Glacier National Park – B.C.

These two parks count visitor attendance as one unit, with a combined total visitor count for 2022 coming in at about 775,190. Both beautiful parks offer some great hiking, wildlife viewing, cool rainforests, and alpine valleys and villages.

6. Yoho National Park – B.C.

663,878 people took a trip to Yoho National Park last year, with many coming to see the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Emerald Lake. Similar to Banff National Park, Yoho offers white-water rivers, wildlife, and ice-blue lakes.

7. Kootenay National Park – B.C.

574,126 people visited this British Columbia national park last year, and more are anticipated to visit it this year. Kootenay is known as the land of fire and ice, and the glaciers, hot springs, and fossils, and grasslands offer plenty to enjoy on a visit here.

To round out the top 10 most visited national parks in Canada we have:
- 8. Point Pelee National Park – Ontario
- 9. Waterton Lakes National Park – Alberta
- 10. Bruce Peninsula National Park – Ontario
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June 3, 2023