Planning your next national park adventure this summer? With 63 national parks spread across the United States, choosing the perfect one for your road trip can be daunting. But fear not! Having explored every park in the country, I’ve gathered firsthand insights into each park’s unique charm and top trails. Whether you’re into family-friendly activities, breathtaking hikes, wildlife viewing, cooler temperatures, dog-friendly trails, crowd-free spots, or scenic drives, here are some top picks to consider:
1.For family-friendly getaways: Rocky Mountain National Park
Rocky Mountain NP offers majestic peaks, alpine lakes, and wildflower-studded meadows. It’s perfect for families with its kid-friendly trails like Lily Lake and Coyote Valley Trail. Don’t miss the Junior Ranger programs and the charming town of Estes Park nearby.
2. For breathtaking day hikes: Yosemite National Park
Yosemite’s towering granite walls and roaring waterfalls make it a year-round attraction. Early summer showcases the best of Yosemite Valley with spots like El Capitan and Vernal Fall Trail. For deeper exploration, consider guided tours or venture onto Tioga Road for stunning views at Tenaya Lake and Lembert Dome.
3.For wildlife-viewing: Theodore Roosevelt National Park
Explore the North Dakota badlands at Theodore Roosevelt NP, known for its bison herds, wild horses, and serene river views. Drive the Scenic Loop for wildlife sightings or hike the Wind Canyon Trail for peaceful birdwatching.
4.For cooler temperatures: Denali National Park
Escape the summer heat in Alaska’s Denali NP, famous for its wildlife and North America’s tallest peak, Denali. Take a Tundra Wilderness Tour for an in-depth exploration or join guided treks by Alaska Alpine Adventures to delve into the park’s vast wilderness.
5.For dog-friendly exploring: Acadia National Park
Acadia NP in Maine welcomes dogs on its extensive trail network and carriage roads. Explore coastal cliffs and spruce forests, starting from Hulls Cove Visitor Center. For quieter trails, head to Schoodic Peninsula and finish off with a dog-friendly lobster roll at Stewman’s.
6.For crowd-free fun: Isle Royale National Park
Discover the hidden gem of Isle Royale NP in Lake Superior. Reachable only by ferry or floatplane, it offers solitude amidst boreal forests and rugged shorelines. Hike to Scoville Point or challenge yourself with the Greenstone Ridge Trail for unparalleled views and wildlife sightings.
7.For scenic drives: Yellowstone National Park
Yellowstone, the world’s first national park, is a paradise for scenic drives. Experience highlights like Old Faithful, Grand Prismatic Spring, and Yellowstone Lake. Explore Lamar Valley for wildlife and marvel at the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone.
With these recommendations, your national park road trip is sure to be filled with unforgettable experiences. Whether you’re planning a family adventure, seeking serene landscapes, or chasing wildlife, these parks offer something special for every traveler.
