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The Perfect Road Trip to See Every U.S. National Park

by US Park Pass | Mar 9, 2020

Map Shows the Ultimate U.S. National Park Road Trip

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If exploring the breathtaking beauty of our National Park System in one road trip is something on your bucket list, this may be the perfect map for you. Back in 2016, for the 100 th anniversary of the National Park Service, blogger Randy Olson devised an optimal route to see the most epic national parks across the nation.

The U.S. National Park System technically consists of 59 parks, but 12 of them are in Alaska, Hawaii and other U.S. territories. This road trip is focused solely on those you can reach by car in one trip within the Continental 48.

Even with the reduction of the parks outside the Lower 48, Olson included 47 others along his route that stop in 23 different states. If you've never been to the Grand Canyon, Great Smoky Mountains , Joshua Tree, or any of the other great National Parks, this may be the best way to see them in one shot.

Those determined to finish the trip full of scenic drives can do so in approximately two months! The route covers 14,498 miles. Olson starts his trip at the Grand Canyon, but he designed the route as a loop, so you could begin anywhere on the map and travel in whichever direction you'd like.

Here's the full list of national parks in order and a visual of the route:

Randy Olson/Google Maps

The Ultimate U.S. National Park Road Trip

• Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona
• Petrified Forest National Park, Arizona
• Saguaro National Park, Arizona
• Guadalupe Mountains National Park, Texas
• Carlsbad Caverns National Park, New Mexico
• Big Bend National Park, Texas
• Hot Springs National Park, Arkansas
• Mammoth Cave National Park, Kentucky
• Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Tennessee
• Everglades National Park, Florida
• Dry Tortugas National Park, Florida
• Biscayne National Park, Florida
• Congaree National Park, South Carolina
• Shenandoah National Park, Virginia
• Acadia National Park, Maine
• Cuyahoga Valley National Park, Ohio
• Isle Royale National Park, Michigan
• Voyageurs National Park, Minnesota
• Theodore Roosevelt National Park, North Dakota
• Badlands National Park, South Dakota
• Wind Cave National Park, South Dakota
• Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado
• Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve, Colorado
• Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, Colorado
• Mesa Verde National Park, Colorado
• Canyonlands National Park, Utah
• Arches National Park, Utah
• Capitol Reef National Park, Utah
• Bryce Canyon National Park, Utah
• Zion National Park, Utah
• Great Basin National Park, Nevada
• Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming
• Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming
• Glacier National Park, Montana
• North Cascades National Park, Washington
• Mount Rainier National Park, Washington
• Olympic National Park, Washington
• Crater Lake National Park, Oregon
• Redwood National and State Parks, California
• Lassen Volcanic National Park, California
• Yosemite National Park, California
• Kings Canyon National Park, California
• Sequoia National Park, California
• Pinnacles National Park, California
• Channel Islands National Park, California
• Joshua Tree National Park, California
• Death Valley National Park, California

This post was originally published on June 16, 2017. It was updated on March 9, 2022. 

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Visit Every US National Park on this Epic Road Trip

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Visiting every single National Park in the United States is no small task. Currently, there are 63 recognized National Parks including American Samoa & the Virgin Islands. Even if you only look at the contiguous U.S., there are 48 National Parks spread across the country. For this National Park road trip, we will be focusing on the parks you can reach overland without hopping a plane, boat, or crossing a border.

When we were planning our ultimate national park road trip we were surprised to find very little route information when you’re looking at exploring the entire United States. Most National park guides instead focus on a single region of the U.S.

But with vanlife surging in popularity, more travelers than ever will be exploring the United States on long term cross country trips . There really is no wrong way to reach the parks, but this is the optimal route we decided on when planning our road trip to every national park.

How to Plan a National Park Road Trip

How do you plan a road trip of this magnitude? One state at a time.

We converted a 1994 Dodge Ram Van before hitting the road. So for us, it was important to keep the mileage as low as possible. This old tank isn’t gonna last forever. We didn’t want to have to double back or go way out of our way if at all possible.

First, we made a map of all the national parks across the United States. Including a few that sit on small islands just offshore (like Key Biscayne & the Channel Islands).

Then we played connect the dots.

& the zig-zag map we provided below was born.

But now you have to ask yourself… when do you plan on leaving? Well, it all depends on where you’re starting.

I’ll cover this more in-depth at the end of the blog post but in general, you’ll want to avoid harsh winter weather during your national park road trip.

Best Way to see the National Parks? Van Life.

Okay. I might be biased. But van life has changed the road trip game. It’s made it cheaper. More comfortable & helped me to travel more off-the-beaten-path. & that’s just a few benefits of the van life . But van life isn’t always as glamorous as it’s made out to be. & if you’re on the fence you should test out van/RV travel before you invest in your own rig.

My favorite RV rental company is RVShare. They have rentals all over the U.S. & are a very affordable option. Another perk…they are locally owned RVs which means they are cozier than a generic rental and you’re supporting small businesses.

If you’re looking for more of an adventure van experience I would check out Travellers Autobarn (my favorite van rental company) or Escape van rentals.

Before you hit the road make sure you’re well-stocked with all the vanlife essentials that make living in your vehicle a piece of cake.

Ultimate USA National Park Road Trip Map

Here’s our google map with rough driving routes to every single national park in the United States included.

Disclaimer: These are the routes recommended by Google. We took slightly different driving routes to add small towns we were interested in stopping in. I would recommend creating your own driving route to add things that may interest you along the way.

Complete National Park Road Trip Itinerary

Because Google Maps can be a bit hard to read sometimes, let’s break it down.

Here is a USA National Park road trip map that starts & ends in Washington State. As you can see the route is a circle, which means you can start anywhere that is convenient for you.

Here’s a list of all the National Parks in order by this route.

• North Cascades National Park
• Glacier National Park
• Yellowstone National Park
• Grand Teton National Park
• Wind Cave National Park
• Badlands National Park
• Theodore Roosevelt National Park
• Voyageurs National Park
• Isle Royale National Park
• Indiana Dunes National Park
• Cuyahoga National Park
• Acadia National Park
• Shenandoah National Park
• New River Gorge National Park
• Mammoth Cave National Park
• Great Smoky Mountains National Park
• Congaree National Park
• Everglades National Park
• Hot Springs National Park
• Big Bend National Park
• Guadalupe Mountains National Park
• Carlsbad Caverns National Park
• White Sands National Park
• Saguaro National Park
• Petrified Forest National Park
• Grand Canyon National Park
• Mesa Verde National Park
• Great Sand Dunes National Park
• Rocky Mountain National Park
• Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park
• Arches National Park
• Canyonlands National Park
• Capitol Reef National Park
• Bryce Canyon National Park
• Zion National Park
• Great Basin National Park
• Joshua Tree National Park
• Death Valley National Park
• Sequoia National Park
• Kings Canyon National Park
• Pinnacles National Park
• Yosemite National Park
• Lassen Volcanic National Park
• Redwoods National Park
• Crater Lake National Park
• Mount Rainier National Park
• Olympic National Park

How Long Would it Take to Visit All the National Parks?

In-depth? Years.

But obviously, most travelers don’t have that kind of time. Our road trip lasted about 3 and a half months . I wouldn’t recommend any less than this amount of time. If you plan on visiting just national parks in the US 3-4 months is ample time to see the highlights. But if you’re planning on enjoying the other sights and cities that America has to offer ( & you should ) I would recommend 6 months to a year.

Side Note: As you can see from our many maps there are a few national parks that are way out of the way. Like Great Basin National Park in Nevada . Or the Gateway Arch National Park in Missouri . We kept Great Basin on the route but decided NOT to include Gateway Arch as it’s really more of a national monument. Who decided that got to be a National Park anyways??

If you wanted to include Gateway Arch I would recommend adding it after Isle Royale and before you hit the Indiana Dunes National Park.

If you’re willing to charter a boat you can also add in Key Biscayne, Dry Tortugas, & the Channel Islands without changing the route drastically.

What about Alaska & Hawaii? Virgin Islands? American Samoa?

This is where the additional 12 National Parks come in. Alaska has a whopping 8 National Parks that you absolutely should visit in the Spring . Hawaii has two & there is one on both the Virgin Islands and American Samoa.

I did not include them here because it’s unlikely they will be included on a cross-country road trip.

Best Time to Start Your National Park Road Trip

We’ve covered the where but what about when? It’s time to look at the best time to start your cross-country road trip.

The truth is there really is no perfect route. You’ll have to make sacrifices with temperature and crowds along the way. Some parks will have to be visited off-season. It’s just the way it is. The United States is such a diverse and vast country that it’s impossible to get “perfect” conditions in every state along the way.

Weather to Consider on Your Road Trip

Northern U.S. : The Northern U.S. gets winter. Cold, snowy, horrible winter. Unless you’re an avid skier and experienced snow driver you’ll probably be wanting to avoid the North during the Late Nov-Feb months.

Southern U.S .: National Parks like Death Valley reach temps of over 130 degrees in the summer months. While states like Florida have a hurricane season that stretches from summer to fall.

Our Ideal Weather Route

Knowing we wanted to see the changing of the colors in New England in the fall we decided to begin in Washington State in late summer. If you have an entire year I would spend August-Oct crossing from Washington to Maine. Oct-Nov down the East Coast. Dec-Jan crossing the South to Arizona. Feb-April zig-zagging across the southwest to Death Valley & then enjoy a lovely summertime on the West coast from May onward.

For those with less time, I would just make sure to check national parks where extreme weather is common. Rocky Mountain National Park in Colorado , Glacier National Park in Montana, Voygeaurs & Isle Royale in the North . & of course the desert National Parks like Death Valley in California and the parks in Utah.

Our Top 5 Can’t-Miss National Parks

In no particular order, these are the parks that we LOVED and you absolutely shouldn’t miss on your cross-country road trip.

• Yosemite National Park . This is my favorite national park. Climbing, hiking, dramatic landscapes, stargazing, I’ll go back to Yosemite again & again.
• Glacier National Park . With tons of hiking over varied terrain and rugged Montana landscapes, it landed easily in my top 3.
• Death Valley National Park . Who would have thought a massive empty dust bowl could be so pretty? Some of the best sunsets, sunrises, & stargazing you’ll find anywhere.
• Yellowstone National Park . Wildlife, geysers, and mars-like landscape. It lives up to the hype.
• Acadia National Park . Stunning fall foliage, beautiful coastline, and truly unique hikes. I recommend the Iron wrung trails.

Our 5 Least Favorite National Parks

These parks on the other hand…if you want to cut them out you won’t be missing much.

• Indiana Dunes National Park. There are far better dunes in the United States.
• Cuyahoga National Park. Essentially it’s one small hike with some neatly stacked rocks.
• Congaree National Park. Again. Just a flooded walkway and only a few trails.
• Wind Cave National Park. The least impressive of the caverns.
• Hot Springs National Park. You can’t even soak in the outdoor springs. Big disappointment.

Cross Country Road Trip Stops to Add

If you’re embarking on this adventure you’ll likely want to stop at more than JUST National Parks. We thoroughly explored each state we visited. We drove through the Black Hills of South Dakota , ate our way through cities like Chicago & NYC, and enjoyed a few weeks on the beaches of Florida .

I compiled a massive 400+ stop Google Map of all our destinations across the United States for truly the biggest & most epic USA road trip of all time. It includes state parks, hiking trailheads, budget-friendly food stops, & more. Everywhere you could possibly want to see on a cross-country road trip is included.

Join our E-Mail list below & I’ll send you my monster Google map with all our USA road trip destinations .

No planning necessary, all you’ll need to do is hit the road.

I promise I won’t spam you with emails or try to sell you anything. Currently, I send at most 1-2 emails a month. & if that’s too much for your inbox you can always unsubscribe. Thanks in advance for supporting my blog.

Alternative National Park Road Trips

Don’t have 4 months to a year to roam about? Here are some smaller National Park road trips that can be done in a month or less.

Pacific Northwest National Park Road Trip Map

Home sweet home. Being from Washington State I’ve got a soft spot for the mountains. This circuit is packed with wildlife, hiking, and dramatic landscapes. You could see it all in as little as 2 weeks, but I would avoid the cold winter months. This is a late spring-early fall road trip .

West Coast National Park Road Trip Map

If you’ve got a little longer you can take a trip down the West coast . These are some of the most impressive national parks in the United States and the climate will be diverse. This road trip will take you from the lush Olympic mountains to the tallest redwood forests to the jaw-dropping mountains of Yosemite to the arid deserts of Joshua Tree all in one go.

Southwest National Parks Road Trip

The Southwest is such a unique region of the U.S. The landscape is warm wide-open deserts marked with orange otherworldly rock formations , deep underground caverns, and stunning Colorado peaks . It’s a weird chunk of the United States and worth a short getaway.

Trying to Pick Which National Park to Visit?

Just planning a short trip? I wrote a blog post for each season in the United States to help you choose where to go when.

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National Parks Road Trip Resources

A road trip of this size can’t be done on a whim (unless you sign-up for my complete Google map route). It takes some careful planning and research. Here are some resources we found useful on our cross-country road trip to every National Park.

America the Beautiful Pass

Most National Parks charge a fee to enter. It ranges from $10-$30 for a week-long pass. Or if you’re planning on visiting multiple parks the America the Beautiful Pass is $80 and gives you unlimited access to National Parks & Monuments for a year.

We used our pass to access all 47 National Parks above as well as Mount Rushmore, Devils Tower National Monument, and more. You can buy them online through the link above or at the entrance station to any National Park.

AAA Membership

Even if you’re not driving a 30-year old self converted van across the country it’s important to have a backup plan. Especially when you’ll be spending time out in the wilderness. You don’t want to break down in Death Valley & end up paying hundreds of dollars for a tow.

Road Trip Essentials Packing List

Here are a few things you might find yourself needing on the road. Visiting National Parks involves a lot of outdoor exploring.

• Lifestraw Water Bottle .
• Hiking Boots.
• Rain Jacket & Heavy Coat for unexpected weather.
• Comfy hiking pack.
• Thick socks.
• Mosquito repellant.

For a full list of road, trip gear be sure to check out my van life essentials blog post. It covers everything you could possibly need on your cross-country National Park road trip.

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The Optimal Itinerary for a US National Park Road Trip, Mapped

RANDY OLSON , a computer science and engineering Ph.D. candidate at Michigan State University, is a man who likes to design road trips. He has previously organized the ultimate US road trip and the best cross-Canada journey and, this time, Olson created an itinerary that would allow travelers to see every single national park in the 48 contiguous states without wasting any time (or stuffing their backpacks too full). Since Olson’s map was released in 2016, four new national parks have been added to the system. So Matador Network added them to a new map, creating the ultimate national park road trip.

Before you head out, stock up on the best backpacking gear for your epic trip — you’ll be glad you did.

Here is Olson’s original map form 2016:

Map: Randy Olson / Google

This ultimate national park road trip covers 16,847 miles and it would take you about two months to complete the loop if you’re going “at a breakneck speed.” In other words, you’d better take a few months off work before getting on the road.

This, of course, isn’t an exhaustive list of the national park system. There’s a national park ( or national monument, or national forest ) nearby just about everywhere there’s people in the US — as well as many places where there aren’t a whole lot of people. If you want to just find the closest national park regardless of where you are, there’s a map for that , too, that covers all 423 sites. Just make sure you have the proper entry permits for the type of activities you want to do no matter which park you go to. After all, there’s a national park that’s a good fit for just about every type of traveler .

Here’s Matador Network ’s new ultimate national park road trip map:

Here’s a list of all the national parks included in this new itinerary. Note that you can start the trip at any stop in the loop.

• Grand Canyon National Park , Arizona
• Petrified Forest National Park, Arizona
• Saguaro National Park, Arizona
• Guadalupe Mountains National Park, Texas
• Carlsbad Caverns National Park, New Mexico
• White Sands National Park, New Mexico
• Big Bend National Park , Texas
• Hot Springs National Park, Arkansas
• Mammoth Cave National Park , Kentucky
• Gateway Arch National Park, Missouri
• Indiana Dunes National Park , Indiana
• Great Smoky Mountains National Park , Tennessee
• Everglades National Park, Florida
• Dry Tortugas National Park, Florida
• Biscayne National Park , Florida
• Congaree National Park, South Carolina
• Shenandoah National Park , Virginia
• New River Gorge National Park , West Virginia
• Acadia National Park , Maine
• Cuyahoga Valley National Park, Ohio
• Isle Royale National Park , Michigan
• Voyageurs National Park, Minnesota
• Theodore Roosevelt National Park, North Dakota
• Badlands National Park, South Dakota
• Wind Cave National Park, South Dakota
• Rocky Mountain National Park , Colorado
• Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve, Colorado
• Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, Colorado
• Mesa Verde National Park, Colorado
• Canyonlands National Park , Utah
• Arches National Park, Utah
• Capitol Reef National Park , Utah
• Bryce Canyon National Park , Utah
• Zion National Park , Utah
• Great Basin National Park , Nevada
• Grand Teton National Park , Wyoming
• Yellowstone National Park , Wyoming
• Glacier National Park , Montana
• North Cascades National Park , Washington
• Mount Rainier National Park , Washington
• Olympic National Park , Washington
• Crater Lake National Park, Oregon
• Redwood National and State Parks, California
• Lassen Volcanic National Park, California
• Yosemite National Park, California
• Kings Canyon National Park, California
• Sequoia National Park , California
• Pinnacles National Park, California
• Channel Islands National Park, California
• Joshua Tree National Park , California
• Death Valley National Park , California

A version of this article was previously published on May 26, 2017, and was updated on August 2, 2021, and March 3, 2022, with more information.

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How to Plan Your US National Parks Road Trip | USA

A US National Parks trip is kind of a right of passage for anyone who loves the outdoors. Sleeping in barren deserts. Going off-trail to explore strange rock formations weathered over millions of years. Wading through knee-deep water in narrow canyons. Bagging peaks during the short summer when the highest altitudes are within reach. The trip is about varied terrains and diverse landscapes. Visit both Yosemite and Big Bend, and you’ll doubt that you’re in the same country. And the stuff in Utah? Well, that might as well be in another world.

But unlike the good ol’ days of the American road trip, the US National Parks are no longer well suited to an off-the-cuff style of travel. There’s a lot of competition for campsites and backcountry permits. Planning a US National Parks trip takes time and effort, and A LOT of time and effort, at that. But you’ll get every bit of energy you pour into planning back when you’re out there, experiencing some of nature’s greatest works.

Ready to go on an adventure? Here’s a massive guide to planning a US National Parks trip including everything from route planning to suggested itineraries to making reservations to costs.

Choose Your Route

1. pick your parks.

The US is a BIG COUNTRY. There are vast distances between the coasts and you can even expect long drives between parks in the same state. So where do you start planning a US National Parks road trip itinerary? Start by making a list of parks you want to see. Grab a guidebook or check out some of our featured Outlandish National Park Guides.

Focus on one park at a time and look at photos, watch videos, or check out things to do. Narrowing down your list of parks can be easy if you already know where you want to go, and very daunting if you don’t. If you fall into the second camp, ask yourself: how long do you have? What states are interesting to you? What season are you traveling in? What’s your overall budget for the trip?

Suggested US National Parks Road Trip Itinerary

Ultimate centennial parks road trip.

There are 61 National Parks in the US, which is A LOT of ground to cover; around 14,498 miles if you go the most efficient way. In 2016, data scientist Randy Olson created an interactive map that optimized driving times to create the ultimate US National Parks road trip itinerary. It excludes parks in Alaska, Hawaii, and other territories) but still manages to cover 47 US National Parks. 

• Route 1: Grand Canyon to Everglades (map)
• Route 2: Everglades to Badlands (map)
• Route 3: Badlands to Zion (map)
• Route 4: Zion to Lassen (map)
• Route 5: Lassen to the Grand Canyon (map)

While that is the perfect, see-everything-save-on-gas route, obviously that won’t be the best route for everyone. You might want to spend some time in cities, pop into state parks, or skip some regions. If you’d rather customize your own National Parks road trip, here’s how you can go about it…

Other Suggested Road Trips

2. Make Your Map

Once you have a shortlist, that means you can make a map.

Google My Maps is a complete lifesaver if you’re collaborating on trip planning or undertaking a complicated road trip itinerary. Add all the parks that you’re interested in to your map. This will give you a visual representation of which parks are nearest each other and which are way out of the way. From there, you can narrow your itinerary down further based on how much time you have or your other priorities.

Once you have your locations established, you can map directions between the two parks to determine drive time. In some cases, it can be quicker to alternate states (ie. Arizona and Utah) or more comfortable to add something into your itinerary to break up a long driving day.

Spend some time on this! Figure out how you can take the trip at your own pace while maximizing on everything you want to see.

Tip: Before you go, make sure that all the maps you need are available offline. Service can be spotty at best and you’ll always want to have your driving directions accessible.

3. Plan Your Time

Once you have a good idea of where you’re going, create a planner in Excel or Google Sheets. Begin with the first park you’re going to visit, and think about how much time you’d like to spend there. Consider how big the park is and what there is to do. Look at driving time between Park A and Park B and decide where you’ll sleep on your travel days. Then, do this park-by-park with this until you have a decent overview of your time spent in each park. It is tedious, but it’s a lot easier to do it this way than by trying to take in all the information and build an itinerary after.

Before looking in dates, take a look at all the activities that might require a backcountry permit or that otherwise limits access and establish your priorities. Check availability and book that first so that you don’t schedule your whole trip around something that might be booked up. 

Once that’s out of the way, you can get onto your next step.

When to Start Planning

You should start looking into your US National Parks trip no less than 6 months out. Reservations for NPS campsites and lodges almost all open 3-6 months in advance. If you’re planning backcountry travel, the permits are usually reservable 3-6 months out, too. Reservations for the most popular campsites and hikes sell out within seconds of going online (no exaggeration!). So, if you have your heart set on something specific, do your research early and set a calendar reminder so you don’t miss out.

Already late? Some parks have walk-up campsites and permits available for that very reason. There are also plenty of campgrounds and hotels outside of the park boundaries and hikes that don’t require backcountry permits. You should always be able to find a hike and a campsite, even if they’re not the exact ones you had in mind.

Budgeting & Costs

Wondering how much it costs to do a US National Parks trip ? The short answer is that it really depends on what type of trip you want. But since I know this is a cop out for an answer, I’ll give you the long answer, too.

Unfortunately, a US National Park road trip probably costs more than you’d expect. Some costs you’ll want to factor in for your own trip are: park entrance or your America the Beautiful Pass , vehicle costs, gas, food & drink, entertainment, gear, campsites & accommodation, and permits. Even with camping and cooking, the US is notoriously expensive. But don’t let this stop you from going! You can keep costs down by being thoughtful about which regions you visit, altering your standard of travel, and borrowing (rather than buying or renting gear. For example, on our 21-day road trip through Arizona and Utah, we spent around $1,500. This was mostly camping and self-prepared food with a few motel nights and 3-4 meals out each week. We also had the benefit of traveling with our own vehicle and splitting many of our costs in half.

Read More: How Much Does a US National Parks Road Trip Actually Cost?

Most of the US National Parks are at their peak business between May and August. Of course, this is more based around the summer holiday than what is actually the best time to visit.

The best time to visit the desert parks like Zion  and the Grand Canyon is actually spring or fall when temperatures are more moderate and crowding is less. For summer travel, consider going to some lesser-known national parks like Capitol Reef to dodge the crowds, or go to parks like Glacier or Rocky Mountain that are only fully open in the summer. If you’re traveling in winter, consider parks in hotter regions like Everglades,  Death Valley, or Joshua Tree . Most of the parks are open in some capacity year-round, but be sure to check details about when you’re visiting to make sure that you’re not surprised by closures or bad weather when you get there.

Making Reservations

The US National Parks have gotten seriously popular in recent years (it’s called the Instagram effect ). This trip is no longer the spontaneous journey it once was. Making reservations well in advance is unfortunately part of the new process. Here are a couple of the things you’ll want to look into.

Reserving Permits

Wilderness permits (sometimes called backcountry permits) are needed to hike or stay overnight in many protected areas. In most cases, your backcountry campsite reservation is the same thing as your permit to hike in an area.

At present, demand for backcountry permits in most US parks well exceeds the supply. This is essential from a conservation perspective, but it also means it can be a major source of disappointment if you don’t plan ahead.

Permits are typically bookable online 3-6 months in advance, and sell out in seconds in the most popular areas. If you’re planning a backpacking trip, you’ll often need several permits sequentially. If there’s something you have your heart set on, take some time to plan your itinerary well before bookings become available. Come up with option 1, 2, and 3. Familiarize yourself with the booking engine and pre-fill basic details like your email and address. While there are no guarantees, this will definitely give you a better chance to snag the more elusive permits.

You’ll have a better chance of getting a permit for popular sites you apply during shoulder season or travel during the weekdays. Being flexible with your dates is a huge help here.

Didn’t get your permit?  Many parks have walk-up permits available. You’ll also sometimes be able to find alternate routes, or get permits for less-known hikes or backcountry sites that are just as awesome.

Booking Campsites & Lodging

Once you have your key dates anchored in, the next thing you should do is book your car campsites (or lodges if that’s more your style). There is no shortage of camping outside of the National Parks, but if you want to sleep inside the park boundaries, you usually need to book advance (or plan your travel days for early arrival if the sites are first-come-first-served).

Every park has an NPS website. Start by finding the page on accommodation within the park. Find out where each of the campsites are located within the park (they can sometimes be hours apart) and choose the best location before you book anything. Depending on how much effort you want to put in, there are sites like campsitephotos.com that post photos of campsites and suggest the best sites (ie. quiet, close to the bathroom, shaded by trees).

Once you know what you want, you’ll find most online campsite bookings are handled by recreation.gov . Bookings are relatively straightforward, but you will want to make sure that you book the proper resources (ie. a tent site vs an RV site).

Once your bookings are confirmed, it’s good to print them off and keep them where they’re easy to find (how about that glove compartment?). You won’t always have service in the campgrounds, and knowing your loop and site number will speed up your check-in process.

Before you Go

Preparing your vehicle.

Getting your vehicle sorted is a necessary step in planning a US Parks trip whether you’re renting a car or readying your own car for the trip. Some parks are easier to explore if you have a vehicle with high-clearance and 4WD though this isn’t always necessary.

If you own a car…

you have the benefit of traveling with a car that you know and trust. It’s generally cheaper to travel in your own vehicle, too! The main drawback is that you’ll be putting a lot of miles on your car.

Before leaving on your trip, schedule to have it serviced. Get the tires rotated, the oil changed, the fluids topped, the break pads tested, and everything else you can think of. You’re guaranteed to be in remote areas on parts of your trip, and you’ll want your car to be in the best possible shape. Just to be on the safe side, you might also want to upgrade your insurance policy, get a AAA membership. and gear up your car with a box or some emergency supplies.

Basics aside, there are lots of things you can get to make your car more comfortable for such a major trip! It’s going to be your home on wheels, after all. Take a look at some things you’ll want for your car.

If you’re renting…

You can choose any adventure vehicle you want! And the rental company will generally take care of the maintenance and insurance stuff for you. The big drawback is that this option tends to be more expensive and you might be less comfortable than you would in your own car.

Wanna rent a car? You can definitely do this trip in a standard car. Just be sure to choose a car with enough space for your stuff (and perhaps one with 4WD). And since you’re going to be driving it hard, be sure to check the insurance policy  thoroughly to make sure it covers everything you need it to. Hertz has pickup locations across the country and their car rentals are competitively priced (starting from about $50 per day including tax). They also have a program for drivers aged 20-25 who are unable to rent a car from other major agencies. Check prices and availability on hertz.com . 

Going for a campervan? You’ll get a bit of extra room and plenty of road trip steez. Escape offers fully equipped campervans which can be a really fun way to travel! While they don’t have 4WD or get as good of gas mileage, you might be able to save by having an indoor spot to sleep on the nights you may have splurged on a hotel. Check prices and availability on escapecampervans.com .

And as for the stuff… Make a list of everything you need on your road trip. There are some obvious items (like a tent, sleeping bag, and a cooler), but would you have thought to bring a power outlet adaptor or a pair of chains for your tires? It’s a delicate balance between being prepared and cluttering your car. Try to streamline your gear and have what you need without going overboard. 

READ MORE: “ What to Pack for a US National Parks Trip” coming soon!

Hitting the Road

The best part about planning your National Parks road trip ahead of time is that it’s pretty easy by the time you finally go. The adventure of this kind of trip then changes of weather. The detours. The wildlife sightings and road closures. You do your best to prepare, then whatever the hell happens happens.

What else do you want to know about planning your US National Parks road trip? Any questions you’d like answered or tips for planning your trip?

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Taylor record.

I'm Taylor and this is Travel Outlandish. I’m an independent traveler kind of like you. I believe we deserve better than crowds of people and manufactured experiences when we explore. Whether you're going into the wild on a backpacking trip or planning a weekend in a foreign city, you'll find everything you need to plan something awesome on Travel Outlandish. Thanks for stopping by!

10 Comments

it is my dream to see one or more of these national parks. they are so unique and look so beautiful in photos! but im not a huge fan of road trips.

They are so beautiful! But most definitely require some time in the car. Utah is a good place to travel because driving times are usually 2-4 hours rather than entire days like you’ll get in other parts of the country.

Anthony @ Green Mochila

Such a great post that got me dreaming of the USA. Thank you for this moment of escape, Taylor! We’re grateful and happy that so much of nature is being preserved through National Parks. Hopefully it will stay like this for a long time still.

Hey, thanks so much Anthony! Going to these parks was the first thing I did when I moved back from Berlin – it was such a good way to remember the parts I love about the US. Hope the parks stay this way for a long time to come too

Ray Massucco

My wife and I, both in our 70’s, are planning a cross country trip in the summer of 2021 [assuming it’s not canceled; summer, not the trip]. We plan to rent an RV and want to hit at least 10-12 national parks. We will be leaving VT in late June and plan to be on the road for 8-9 weeks. Our three adult children and their families all live in Seattle, so we plan to hit there for about 2 weeks, then take a different roue home. Plan is to get back to Vermont in late August.

Where do we start?

Hi Ray! Sorry that I’m only just seeing your comment. Let me send you a quick email so I don’t miss your response.

Kim Birkner

Wondering about 6 parks with a dog & handicapped hubby, thinking Yellowstone, Pikes Peak, thru the Rockies to Grand Canyon to Bryce & Zion and ending with Yosemite. Thoughts? Thanks :}

Hey Kim. One hell of a trip! The drive through Utah on its own is worth it. * Here are all of my National Park Guides . * One thing that may be helpful is that all the parks have an accessibility page (ie. https://www.nps.gov/yell/planyourvisit/accessibility.htm ) that overviews trails, camping, and overlooks with accessible access AND most have a pet page too ( https://www.nps.gov/subjects/pets/visit.htm ). * You also should be eligible for a discounted America the Beautiful Pass ( https://store.usgs.gov/access-pass ).

Hope you enjoy your trip!

Go Wander Wild

This guide is incredibly helpful. You’ve really thought through everything you need to know before planning a trip. Thank you for this helpful resource. Saving this guide for later!

You’re so welcome! Hope you enjoy your trip 🙂

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Voyages with Val

How to Plan the Ultimate National Park Road Trip- With Downloadable Planner

The US National Park System was once called “ America’s best idea” by Wallace Stegner and I have yet to find any evidence against that. Spanning  85 million acres ,  National Parks can be found in every corner of America, from Acadia in Maine to Joshua Tree in California and even down to Big Bend in Texas . Unfortunately for most people, the National Parks are located far from their homes, which means the best way to visit is by flying and renting a car, or setting out on a road trip with your own vehicle. This guide is to help you plan, budget, and pack for your epic National Parks Road Trip vacation.

I wrote this guide based on my own experience after visiting over a dozen of America’s most popular parks. After graduating college, with a few weeks off, a couple thousand saved up, a tent, and a 10-year-old Honda Civic, I planned a foolhardy but unforgettable trip to some of America’s most beautiful places. Before setting out I researched as much as possible to plan and struggled to find one cohesive guide on planning, budgeting, and packing for my trip.

Since then I’ve gone on several other National Parks Road trips. From short weekend trips to Olympic National Park to a week spent in the Southwest . I’ve channeled what I’ve learned from those trips into this guide to help you plan! Decide where to go, how to get there, and what to do with the helpful instructions below. This is to help you maximize your time and get the most out of your trip.

Budgeting for your trip? Read my Budget Breakdown From Our 2 Week Road Trip

How Long to Plan for a National Parks Road Trip?

Whether you have 1-2 weeks or several months, how long you have will impact your trip more than anything else. While longer is always better, 2-3 weeks will allow you to make the most of your National Parks road trip.

Of course, that’s not to say you cannot have a great vacation with less time. One week is still plenty of time to see many parks that are close together. Even a weekend can lead to an amazing   two days at the Grand Canyon .

Whether you are visiting one park or several, plan on spending at least one day in each park, with 2-3 days planned for larger and more popular parks such as Yellowstone and Glacier. Make sure you leave half a day to a full day of travel between your chosen parks.

Keep in mind, lines and wait time can seriously cut into your time in the Parks. Plan on arriving to most National Parks early in the day (before 8 or 9) to maximize your time in the park.

Read More: 7 Day Utah-Arizona National Parks Road Trip

Choose Which National Parks to Visit

This can be the hardest part of planning . There are so many amazing National Parks it feels impossible to narrow them down! One important factor is what time of year you are traveling. For example, while there are so many   things to do in Denali National Park  in Alaska you need to make sure you don’t visit in a winter snowstorm!

If there is a specific hike or activity you have your heart set on, make sure it is available the time of year you visit. I had my heart set on hiking Zion’s Narrows , only to be devastated upon arriving in Spring to learn that the river is not passible until later in summer.

When to Visit National Parks

Below is a quick visual guide to check which months are parks’ popular seasons.

National Parks in Spring

Spring is a great time to visit many of the Southwest parks in Utah and Arizona. It is also an ideal time to see waterfalls in parks like Yosemite. Below are a few more parks to visit in Spring :

• Grand Canyon National Park in Arizona
• Zion National Park in Utah
• Arches National Park in Utah

National Parks in Summer

Summer is the most popular time to road trip to National Parks, but it is also the only time to access some of the best hikes in the mountains . Often the snow will not melt until well into July or August. Below are a few parks best visited in summer :

• Mount Rainier National Park in Washington
• North Cascades National Park in Washington
• Grand Teton National Park in Wyoming

National Parks in Fall

In the Fall, visit the Midwest and East Coast parks to witness the beautiful fall foliage! Here are a few parks for a fall trip:

• Acadia National Park in Maine
• Shenandoah National Park in Virginia
• Great Smokey Mountain National Park in Tennessee

National Parks in Winter

Winter is a great time to visit popular parks in the off-season or to spend time in the warmer climate parks. Below are a few warmer weather parks in the desert and South:

• Everglades National Park in Florida
• Joshua Tree National Park in California
• Death Valley National Park in California

Visiting Popular vs Less Crowded Parks

Another factor to consider when choosing your destination is how crowded the parks will be . As you can probably imagine some of the more popular parks include the Grand Canyon, Yosemite, and Yellowstone. Sometimes these parks can get so crowded it can feel more like visiting a Disney park than nature. However, the crowds are for a good reason, as these locations have sites that you cannot see anywhere else in the world.

You can get avoid the crowds by visiting in the off-season , arriving at the park early in the day, or hiking or backpacking several miles from trailheads.

How Far to Drive on a Road Trip

Where you can go also depends on how far you are willing to travel to get there. Be realistic about how much you want to drive in a day. I would recommend 4-6 hours or less of driving each day to ensure you don’t waste most of your vacation on the road.

I’ve gone on two extended National Parks Road Trips. The first trip involved several days of 8-12 hours of driving between parks and the second trip only had 1-3 hours between parks. While both trips were amazing, the second was far less stressful and allowed for more time enjoying the parks.

Plan Your National Parks Road Trip Itinerary

Once you’ve decided on one or several National Parks to visit, it’s time to start planning your itinerary !

Some great itineraries with minimal distance between them are Pacific Northwest National Parks and Southwest National Parks, as they are all close together. Some such as Arches and Canyonland National Parks have only minutes between them. Below are two amazing itineraries that allow you to visit multiple parks with only a few hours of driving in between.

Pacific Northwest Road Trip

This National Park’s road trip loop allows you to start in either Seattle or Portland and hit some of the best scenery and mountain views the Pacific Northwest has to offer.

• North Cascades
• Mount Rainier
• Crater Lake

Southwest Road Trip

This loop is perfect for exploring the Southwest and seeing amazing geological formations  in the desert. Flying into Las Vegas allows you to start at the Grand Canyon and work your way up through Utah’s National Parks on an unforgettable road trip.

• Grand Canyon
• Bryce Canyon
• Capitol Reef
• Canyonlands

California Parks Road Trip

Travel the length of California for an epic California National Park road trip . Start at either the Northern or Southernmost point of California and work your way to the other end stopping at the National Parks on the way. This would make a great two to three-week road trip .

• Lassen Volcanic National Park
• Yosemite National Park
• King’s Canyon
• Death Valley
• Joshua Tree

Western Parks Road Trip

See some of the best Western National Parks with this National Parks road trip. This itinerary takes you to three of the United State’s best National Parks. You will be sure to see plenty of mountains, wildlife, and iconic views on this trip.

• Yellowstone

Reserve Your Accommodations

As soon as you’ve made your itinerary, book your reservations! Most park accommodations require reservations up to 6 months in advance. Almost all reservations inside National Parks can be made on Recreation.gov .

Lodges in National Parks

If you have the budget, you will not regret staying at lodges or cabins inside the National Parks . Many of these lodges are over a hundred years old and have the perfect mix of rustic aesthetic and modern comfort. These stays also have amazing views, and you will spend less time traveling into and out of the park.

Other Places to Stay Near National Parks

If you can’t get a booking inside the park, there are several other places to look for accommodations nearby. If you  travel in a group  and split the costs this can be a great way to save money.

Below are just some of the resources to help you plan a cabin, hotel, or rental stay .

Read More: Cabin Essentials Checklist

Camping in National Parks

If you are traveling on a dime (or just prefer roughing it) most parks have campsites within the park . Like the lodges, most campgrounds require reservations that open 6 months in advance. During peak vacation times these sites can sell out within minutes so be prepared to book your site the moment reservations open.

Some parks also have first-come, first-serve campsites , although those will also fill up quickly during popular times. In the off-season you will have more luck getting a campsite without reservations.

Camping Near the Parks

If you don’t score a spot inside the park, most National Parks will have private campgrounds and nearby state park camping.

Below are some of the best resources to find nearby camping:

Free Camping Near National Parks

If you can boondock without electricity, water, or facilities , you can also camp for free on nearby public land. This is also known as overlanding and is popular if you have a campervan, a way to get power, and a method to go to the bathroom (or you’re okay going outside).

This is my preferred way to camp because you don’t have to constrain your trip to reservations, allowing for more flexibility . That being said it is not for everyone and you have to respect the land! These areas are often less regulated so be sure to properly dispose of waste, respect other campers, and follow Leave No Trace !

Where to find free camping:

• Bureau of Land Management
• iOverlander

National Park Van Road Trip

A great option to conveniently visit several National Parks in one road trip is to rent a van ! This is an especially good if you are visiting in the off season or when conditions are more rough. We visited Death Valley and Joshua Tree in a van in February, and it was great for the windy and cold nights in the desert.

We rented through Cabana Vans and I cannot recommend them enough. They rent out of Seattle, Los Angeles, San Francisco, and Austin. There are also plenty of other van companies in different areas.

Read More: Joshua Tree and Death Valley Van Road Trip Itinerary

What Are You Going To Do?

You made it! You are in the park, now you have to decide what you can even do there. Most likely it includes some hiking or even  backpacking . Many parks have a multitude of scenic viewpoints as well as guided tours, kayaking rentals, and bike paths .

Every park has an abundance and variety of things to offer in terms of trails and activities. Below are some resources and guides on how to make the most of your time in some of the popular National Parks !

• Cuyahoga Valley
• Rocky Mountain
• Grand Tetons

Hiking in National Parks

Hiking is by far the most popular thing to do in the National Parks. You can find trails to hike by reading blogs, visiting the parks’ websites, and using apps such as AllTrails .

Choose one long hike or several short hikes to do in one day to make sure you don’t tire yourself out. Always read trail reviews to have a good idea of current trail conditions. You can also call ahead or ask a park ranger upon arrival.

Before beginning a big hike know your limits and prepare properly . Every year thousands of rescues are required due to inexperienced hikers. It is also important to follow proper hiking etiquette and  Leave No Trace !

Tips for Hiking in National Parks

• Bring enough water.
• Download or bring a print map.
• Wear or bring layers.

Applying for National Parks Permits

Just remember some of the most popular backpacking and hiking trails require permits to be requested far in advance ! This is to prevent damage to the trail and to ensure that the trail is as safe as possible. These trails are extremally popular and permits are in high demand for hikes such as Half Dome in Yosemite and Angels’ Landing in Zion .

Permits are also not limited just to trails. Some popular National Parks have started applying permits and reservations to other areas of the parks as well. For example, Glacier requires permits for its famous  Going-to-the-Sun Road  and   Arches National Park has a timed entry   system enter the park.

Some permits go online at a set time and you must work fast to claim one. Others you enter your name in for a lottery system and are notified if you win. Make sure you understand the requirements and timing to apply for your desired permit.

Downloadable National Parks Planner

Download a national parks planner.

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If you’re like me and things just don’t feel organized until physically written down, download and print out this National Parks Planner. Print one out for each park you plan on visiting. Including- accommodations, check in/check out time, permit information, rentals and tours, the top hikes you want to visit, and a itinerary overview for each day in the National Park

Below is an example of one filled out for a summer road trip to Yosemite. This planner is perfect if you plan on hitting several National Parks on a 2 to 3 week road trip!

Plan For Everything To Go Wrong!

Be flexible! On my first road trip, we encountered two snowstorms (in May!) , a flat tire, hail storms, and views blanketed by nothing but fog . 

Despite it all, those are some of my favorite memories from the trip! The snow forced me to learn how to use tire chains , the rain led to some of the most beautiful waterfalls I’ve ever seen, and the flat tire forced a detour to a small bakery with the best pastry I’ve ever had.

Hope for the best, but prepare for the worst and go with the flow! Nature is unpredictable and doesn’t care about your plans, so make the best of it.

Top 5 Tips for Visiting National Parks

• Know the wildlife in the area! If you are in grizzly country, know if you should have bear spray and how to react if you encounter a bear. Always respect the wildlife and follow   National Park Guidelines  on giving animals their distance.
• Stay on the trail and behind protective barriers. Every year people die from leaning too far over a cliff or trying to get that Instagram shot. It’s not worth your life!
• Respect local fauna. Don’t pick or trample the wildflowers. Leave nature as you found it. Take only pictures, leave only footprints.
• Check if you need tire chains . Over Labor Day in Yosemite, a road into the park closed due to over 40 cars sliding off the road in the snow. This was one of the less obvious tips I hadn’t heard before, so if you will be in mountains make sure to check if there is snow possible at that time of year.
• Check the park’s website . Most parks’ websites will have up-to-date information on what is open, potential hazards, and many even have  webcams  allowing you to see the weather in real-time.

Ultimate National Parks Packing List

Below is a list of some of the most important items to take with you if you plan on camping in National Parks . Most of these links are through REI which is the best place to buy outdoors gear.

Disclosure: Some of the links below are affiliate links. This means that, at zero cost to you, I will earn an affiliate commission if you click through the link and finalize a purchase.

Camping Gear

If you plan on camping, make sure bring all the right camping gear ! Test out any new camping gear at home before starting your road trip. The last thing you want is to not have gear work while in the National Park.

Note: The list below is geared toward tent and car camping. If you are staying in cabins check out my cabin packing list

• Tent – A tent is one of the most crucial parts of camping on a budget- 2 Person Inexpensive Tent
• Ground Tarp – A ground tarp protects your tent and keeps moisture from getting in- All Purpose Tarp
• Sleeping Bags – Kelty makes a great budget but warm sleeping bag for Women and Men .
• Sleeping Pad – If you plan on sleeping on the ground you will want a sleeping pad to be a barrier between yourself and the ground- Self Inflating Sleeping Pad
• Car Air Mattress – If you don’t want to sleep on the ground, or it will be cold or windy on your trip, a car camping is a great alternative.
• Cooler – A cooler will both keep your lunch cold and can be used to chill your road trip snacks and drinks- Soft Sided Cooler
• Camping Chairs – Camping chairs are great especially if you plan on boondocking or camping at free sites that may not have picnic tables.- Inexpensive Camp Chair
• Coffee – Coffee is always a necessity when camping either from a Pour Over packet or a Portable Press .
• Hammock – A hammock while camping is great for relaxing, but make sure you use the right straps to not damage any trees.- Buy a 2 Person Hammock
• Flashlight or Headlamp – If you are hiking at sunset or sunrise bring a headlamp or flashlight to help you find your way back in the dark, A head lamp is also needed if camping at a campground- Headlamp
• Plastic Bags – Always bring lots of plastic bags to help keep your gear free of water and pack out all of your trash
• Fire Starter – You can either bring a fancy fire starter or plenty of matches and a lighter.
• Pillow – While you can bring a pillow from home, it will take up a lot of room if you are road tripping. Consider instead a compressible camp pillow
• Reusable Camp Dishes – Instead of using paper plates, consider reusable bowls to save money and space, as well as reduce trash- Camp Plate and Bowl Set
• Utensils – You really only need a spork for utensils while camping- Spork
• Camp Stove – Plan on cooking with a stove at your campsite. Many National Parks do not allow fires in the summer. Make sure to also bring plenty of fuel- Affordable Camp Stove
• Pot – For your stove you will also need a pot- Camp Pot
• Mugs – Bring a mug for morning coffee!- My Favorite Camping Mug
• Towel – We learned the hard way to always bring a towel camping- Multi Towel
• Rope – Rope is handy for hanging up clothes and towels to dry
• Knife – Always camp with a multiuse knife
• Tape – Duct tape can help in a pinch for broken gear
• Bucket – A bucket or sink is good to bring to help wash dishes- Collapsible Sink

Clothing & Hiking Gear

If you are unfamiliar to hiking, do some research to make sure you pack proper clothing . Exactly what you need will vary slightly depending on which National Parks you plan on visiting and the time of year, but the list below is a good starting point.

• Trekking Poles – Many National Parks have hikes that are made easier with hiking poles such as Angel’s Landing and Upper Yosemite Falls Trail.- Trekking Poles
• Hiking Boots – Don’t forget hiking boots if you are planning on hiking a lot. Good traction and ankle support will save your feet on long hikes. These are the Danner Hiking Boots are my favorite’s I have used in many National Parks. Merrell also makes more inexpensive hiking boots [Men’s Version]
• Windbreaker/ Rain Jacket – Always keep a rain jacket in your pack, as weather can change in an instant, especially in mountain conditions. This is my favorite rain jacket , and a more inexpensive one .
• Heavy Jacket – A  puffy coat is necessary no matter the time of year in some National Parks, such as Glacier, North Cascades, and Rainier which are further North- My absolute favorite puffy coat
• Thick Socks –  If you do wear boots, make sure to bring  good socks  to not get blisters. Absolutely do not wear hiking boots without proper socks- The best hiking socks
• Moisture Wicking Shirts- Any shirt will do, but the best  hiking shirts  are made of natural or synthetic moisture-wicking material that is breathable and dries quickly. I own a lot of these shirts love them for hiking.
• Hiking Pants or Leggings – I personally tend to wear   hiking leggings   more than shorts or pants. If you prefer pants, these are a great option .
• Backpack – A  good daypack  can make your hike so much more enjoyable. Properly distributing weight can ease your trip and allow you to bring all the essentials above!- Women’s Day Pack
• Bear Spray – This is not needed in every park, but if you are hiking in grizzly country bring or rent bear spray!
• First Aid Kit – A first aid kit is a must in any hiking daypack no matter the trail length!- Day Hike First Aid Kit
• Sandals – After a day of hiking you will want to take off your hiking boots.   Teva’s   are my favorite sandal, but even a cheap pair of flip flops will do for some sandals to wear around camp.
• Water Bottle – You will need either a water reservoir or a water bottle whenever hiking in the National Parks
• Sunscreen – Make sure to bring sunscreen for sunny days!- SPF 50 Sunscreen
• But Spray – Definitely bring bug spray if you will be hiking in Spring or Summer- Picaridin Bug Repellent
• Winter Hat – Always bring a warm hat for camping at night- Beanie
• Baseball Hat – I also prefer to bring a baseball hat for hiking during the day.
• Gloves- Gloves can help get to get going on cold mornings

Road Trip Gear

There are a few things you will want to have in your car in case of emergency!

• Battery Pack – A spare battery power station is great for charging you equipment if you
• Paper Map – Many areas of the Western US do not have cell service for hours. Print out your route or bring an Atlas as a back up.
• Print Outs of Reservations – It is always a good idea to bring a print out of your reservations in case there is any confusion. Again, you may not have cell service in the park.
• Spare Tire – A road trip essential!
• Tire Chains – Check if where you are visiting requires tire chains. Many National Parks such as Yosemite require chains in the winter months, and we needed ours even in May!
• Camera – If you are getting started with photography, the Sony a6400 is a great beginner mirrorless camera.   -Travel Camera

Read More: Beginner Hiking Photography Gear

Jackery Power Station

• Toiletry Bag- Roll Up Toiletry Bag
• Toothbrush and Toothpaste
• Paper Towels
• Hand Sanitizer
• Shower Toiletries
• Toilet Paper (even if the campground has toilets it never hurts to have)

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• Joshua Tree & Death Valley Van Road Trip

SAVE IT FOR LATER

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23 comments.

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These are great tips! We love visiting National Parks. There is so much to see and we love having an “outdoor” vacation! Plus, I’ve got a 4th grader this year, so free entry! woot woot!

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Great tips, especially making sure you have planned enough time and having the right gear!

Such a great post! Love how all the packing tips were categorized. Now I feel like I would be prepared to do a road trip to a national park. Pinning!

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I like this article, and especially the when-to-visit part. But there are 63 National Parks, ad you are missing several. Can you expand the list to include all?

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Your website is an absolute gold mine. I’m treating my niece to a girl’s national park road trip from Texas to Oregon. I’ve been a little overwhelmed. Your website has so much useful information and your map images of routes have been especially helpful. Thank you for all the info!

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Ultimate National Parks Road Trip Itinerary: 5 Epic Routes

With 63 national parks and over 420 national park sites including monuments, lakeshores, and recreation areas — to name just a few! — it can be overwhelming just deciding where to visit first. After all, each one has something unique to offer !

Well, good news: there’s a wonderful way to see several parks in one shot, and that’s planning the ultimate national park road trip. 

Regardless of which corner of the country you plan to visit or how much time you have, there are epic routes everywhere. Here, we’re highlighting our top five. Which national parks road trip itinerary will you tackle first?

Tips for Planning the Ultimate National Park Road Trip

In addition to planning out your actual national parks road trip itinerary, there are a few things that will help you get the most out of your trip. 

Buy an America the Beautiful Pass , AKA an annual national parks pass. The $80-per-year pass pays for itself in just three park visits.

Keep in mind that several parks now require advance reservations, completely separate from having an annual pass. For example, in 2021, Glacier started accepting reservations for the summer back in April. 

Dedicate at least one full day to each national park. For larger parks like Yosemite and Yellowstone, set aside 2-3 days if at all possible. 

National parks tend to be surrounded by spectacular national forests and other accessible public land. Consider bringing camping gear to save money on accommodations (and create some awesome memories!).

If your budget allows, rent a campervan for the ultimate national park road trip. Although it’s more pricey upfront, it combines the cost of your vehicle and accommodations. Some campervan rental companies, like Moterra , specialize exclusively in national park destinations.

National Parks Road Trip Itinerary, 5 Ways

1. east coast.

National parks included: Congaree, Great Smoky Mountains, Mammoth Cave, New River Gorge, and Shenandoah

The Eastern Seaboard offers up some major bang for your buck when it comes to a national parks road trip itinerary. Five stunning parks are close enough to visit them all and different enough that you’ll want to do exactly that. 

From scenic drives and water activities like fishing and kayaking to hiking and exploring the longest cave system in the entire world, this ultimate national park road trip on the east coast has a little something for everyone.

Oh, one more thing — take our word for it and visit in the fall if possible. The leaf-peeping in this section of the country is outstanding in late September and most of October . 

Highlights for your east coast national parks road trip itinerary: 

Hike iconic Clingmans Dome, the highest point in the Great Smokies

Drive the incredibly scenic Skyline Drive in Shenandoah

Tour Mammoth Caves (get tickets in advance; they sell out!)

Raised wooden boardwalk trails in Congaree

The catwalk of the New River Gorge Bridge

2. Utah’s Mighty Five

National parks included: Arches, Bryce Canyon, Canyonlands, Capitol Reef, and Zion

Utah is kind of the ultimate national park road trip destination in and of itself, with five heavy-hitting parks all within easy driving distance of one another. 

Start in either the southwest corner of the state near Zion or over in Moab, then work your way across to hit all five parks, situated in a near-perfect line.

Zion and Bryce Canyon are close to each other at one end of the “line,” as are Arches and Canyonlands at the opposite end. Capitol Reef is almost dead-center, two hours from both Arches and Bryce Canyon.

Hiking is the main event on this particular national parks road trip itinerary, so you’ll definitely want to have a sturdy pair of boots, a good hiking backpack, and plenty of trail snacks. 

Highlights for your Utah national parks road trip planner: 

Delicate Arch hike in Arches at sunset

Canyonlands’ Mesa Arch at sunrise

Navajo Loop Trail in Bryce Canyon

Picking fruit from the public orchards in Capitol Reef

Zion’s Angels Landing ...for those without a fear of heights!

3. Pacific Northwest

National parks included: Crater Lake, Mount Rainier, North Cascades, Olympic, Redwood

If you’re looking for a national parks road trip itinerary that includes dramatic coastline, old-growth forests, snow-capped mountains, and actual rainforest, look no further than the PNW. 

Regardless of whether you want to visit all five parks or just a couple, your best bet if you’re not driving your own vehicle is to fly into Seattle and rent a car. From Seattle, make a loop and visit the three Washington parks (Olympic, North Cascades, and Mount Rainier), then head south to Oregon. 

In Oregon, head to Crater Lake National Park, home of the deepest lake in the U.S. If time allows, cross the border into California and visit Redwoods National and State Parks to gawk at some of the world’s largest trees. 

Depending on your travel arrangements, consider cruising back up the Oregon coast and flying home out of Portland. The beaches and scenic drives here are unmatched and worthy of a road trip all on their own!

Highlights for your PNW ultimate national park road trip:

Walk through a real-life fairytale in Olympic’s magical Hoh Rainforest

Drive the scenic North Cascades Highway

Myrtle Falls in Mount Rainier

Drive or bicycle Rim Drive, completely encircling Crater Lake

Redwoods’ Fern Canyon and Stout Grove

4. Colorado

National parks included: Black Canyon of the Gunnison, Great Sand Dunes, Mesa Verde, Rocky Mountain

Colorado is easily one of the most magnificent and diverse U.S. states. It’s got all those 14ers (a whopping 58, to be exact), beautiful mild weather, and gorgeous scenery ranging from the famous Rocky Mountains to steep red rock canyons and even sand dunes.

Best of all, you can experience a little of everything Colorado has to offer with a national parks road trip itinerary hitting its four major parks. 

If you aren’t driving yourself, fly into either Denver or Durango. From either city, it’s easy to make one big loop and visit as many (or as few!) parks as you want.

Note that while you technically can take this Colorado ultimate national park road trip any time of year, it’s best to plan for summer or early fall to avoid seasonal road closures.

Highlights for your Colorado national parks road trip itinerary:

RMNP’s Trail Ridge Road, the highest paved road in America

Oak Flat Loop Trail in Black Canyon of the Gunnison

Try sandboarding in Great Sand Dunes

Tour Mesa Verde’s Cliff Palace

5. Northern Rockies

National parks included: Glacier, Grand Teton, and Yellowstone

You “only” hit three parks on this particular national parks road trip itinerary, but trust us, each one packs a tremendous punch. In all reality, you probably won’t have enough time to see and do everything you want to!

The hiking and backpacking are, of course, epic in all three parks, but so are the water activities, mountain biking, and — something a bit more unique to this part of the country — wildlife viewing. Seriously, don’t forget to pack a pair of binoculars...and bear spray. 

Of all the ultimate national park road trips we’ve discussed, this one has arguably the most spectacular scenery along the entire route. It also has some of the most easily accessible public land, which means the camping opportunities are epic. If there’s one trip to splurge on a campervan for, this is it.

Highlights for your Montana and Wyoming ultimate national park road trip:

Hike the loop around Jenny Lake and take a short detour to Hidden Falls

Lamar Valley in Yellowstone for wildlife watching

Going-to-the-Sun Road in Glacier

Also in Glacier, get a huckleberry bear claw from the Polebridge Mercantile (get there early!), then check out Bowman Lake

As you hammer out the details of your national parks road trip itinerary, don’t forget to commemorate it in a special way. 

The Wander Club’s U.S. National Park Tokens help you highlight all the stops on your road trip, plus they make excellent gifts. We have tokens for every national park, plus you can have them engraved with the date you visited. Happy road tripping!

To the thewanderclub.com administrator, Your posts are always informative.

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US National Parks Road Trip Route

In 2017 my husband and  I traveled to every single US national park . During the planning stages we very quickly realized there wasn’t much online to help us plan our itinerary. Of course there were blog posts listing all the national parks and plenty of people saying how they would hypothetically road trip to all of them… but we couldn’t find any maps or itineraries from someone who had firsthand taken a US national park road trip to ALL of them in one consecutive trip .

So we put in days and days of research and in the end came up with this itinerary. Click here to read more about how we planned our trip, or check out the detailed map below.

Our Route to All the US National Parks in an EPIC 7 Month Road Trip

You can zoom in and out to view the interactive map below in more detail. Be sure to click each location pin for the park information and a detailed guide. Keep in mind that the route shown is just “as the crow flies”, not necessarily the exact route we drove each day. We also added in the 3 new national parks since 2017 (Gateway Arch, White Sands, Indiana Dunes) and the route we would have taken to include them. Note that New River Gorge is yet to be added but could easily be included in your route between stop 25 and 26.

This map is best viewed on desktop!

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Here’s the ultimate road trip to visit most of the national parks

Visit most of the national parks in the contiguous 48 states in one big trip!

• Augusta Statz
• October 16, 2023

Anyone up for a road trip ? This one travels through 47 of the national parks in the U.S. and will take you two months to complete. But hey, if you’ve got plenty of vacation time saved up — why not?

The route is just under 14,500 miles, according to The Washington Post . The Optimal U.S. National Parks Centennial Road Trip map was designed to commemorate the 100 th birthday of the National Park Service, which was in August of 2016, and it hit all of the national parks (at that time) in the contiguous 48 states — so it doesn’t include parks in Hawaii and Alaska, for example.

MORE:  You can visit the national parks for free on these days in 2024

The map was created by Randal Olson , a researcher at the University of Pennsylvania. He had a little help from the Traveling Salesman Problem, which calculates the shortest route you can take to hit up a number of different cities before ending up back where you started.

National Park Service properties are constantly in flux , so it’s no surprise that some new parks have been added since Olson first put this road trip together. But you could easily add some of the new parks to the route: For example, New River Gorge National Park and Preserve, which was designated a national park in 2021, isn’t far off the route to Shenandoah National Park.

MORE: 5 National Park road trips to take this summer

So, if you’re looking for a road trip and want to hit most of the national parks (again, excluding those in Alaska, Hawaii and other U.S. territories), then this would be the shortest, fastest way to do it. Olson recommends setting two months aside to take in all the sights.

Olson designed a circular route so that you can hop on at any point and still stay on track. To learn how the trip was calculated or to create your own trip, check out  his blog .

MORE: Spend a whole year in 70-degree weather with this road trip

Here’s a list of all the national parks the route covers, in order:

• Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona
• Petrified Forest National Park, Arizona
• Saguaro National Park, Arizona
• Guadalupe Mountains National Park, Texas
• Carlsbad Caverns National Park, New Mexico
• Big Bend National Park, Texas
• Hot Springs National Park, Arkansas
• Mammoth Cave National Park, Kentucky
• Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Tennessee
• Everglades National Park, Florida
• Dry Tortugas National Park, Florida
• Biscayne National Park, Florida
• Congaree National Park, South Carolina
• Shenandoah National Park, Virginia
• Acadia National Park, Maine
• Cuyahoga Valley National Park, Ohio
• Isle Royale National Park, Michigan
• Voyageurs National Park, Minnesota
• Theodore Roosevelt National Park, North Dakota
• Badlands National Park, South Dakota
• Wind Cave National Park, South Dakota
• Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado
• Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve, Colorado
• Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, Colorado
• Mesa Verde National Park, Colorado
• Canyonlands National Park, Utah
• Arches National Park, Utah
• Capitol Reef National Park, Utah
• Bryce Canyon National Park, Utah
• Zion National Park, Utah
• Great Basin National Park, Nevada
• Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming
• Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming
• Glacier National Park, Montana
• North Cascades National Park, Washington
• Mount Rainier National Park, Washington
• Olympic National Park, Washington
• Crater Lake National Park, Oregon
• Redwood National and State Parks, California
• Lassen Volcanic National Park, California
• Yosemite National Park, California
• Kings Canyon National Park, California
• Sequoia National Park, California
• Pinnacles National Park, California
• Channel Islands National Park, California
• Joshua Tree National Park, California
• Death Valley National Park, California

Now, time to set your sights on the open road!

MORE: 10 affordable American road trips to take in your life

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18 National Parks to Visit on a Cross-Country Road Trip

Update: Some offers mentioned below are no longer available. View the current offers here .

A few summers ago, I was lucky enough to embark on a three-month-long, 13,000-mile cross-country drive on my motorcycle. After using a few bungees to strap a fly rod, camping gear and a bag full of clothes and tools to the back of the bike, I set off to explore the nation's backroads and stunning parks.

Fortunately, you don't have to own a motorcycle to complete a similar journey. With just a few weeks of vacation time and careful planning, anyone can tackle a road trip to explore the vast network of US national and state parks and forests.

Planning your national park road trip

Before you leave, consider whether or not you want to make this a round-trip drive, or if you'd prefer to fly back. If you opt for the latter, consider a repositioning rental and make sure to rent your vehicle with a credit card that offers primary car rental insurance (such as the Chase Sapphire Reserve, Chase Sapphire Preferred Card and United Explorer Card).

Drivers making a one-way trip will need to book a return flight home. Jackson Hole Airport (JAC), located just a few minutes from the Grand Teton National Park, is serviced by United, Delta, American and Frontier. If you end the trip at North Cascades National Park, however, you'll be just 120 miles from Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA).

When you're driving up to 13 hours a day, it's smart to bring along a good credit card for earning points on gas purchases . With the Citi Premier® Card, for example, you'll earn 3x points when you fill up, along with 3x points on many travel purchases, 2x points on dining and entertainment and 1 point per dollar on everything else.

Another tip? Make sure to buy a national park pass to save money on entrance fees. An annual pass can be purchased from the National Park Service for just $80, and is valid at any National Park for 12 months. Current US military members are eligible for a free annual pass, while seniors ages 62 or older can opt for the $20 annual or $80 lifetime pass.

Acadia National Park, Maine

Located on the coast of Maine, Acadia is the Northeast's only national park. Here, a mountainous landscape converges with the Atlantic Ocean, creating a rugged and rocky shoreline, reminiscent of what you might find out west. Spend a night or two in Bar Harbor's newest property, the Inn on Mount Desert . And while you're in the area, be sure to drive the loop road around the park, stopping at classic destinations such as Otter Cliffs and Jordan Pond. Head to the Schoodic Peninsula during busier times if you need a break from lingering summer crowds. During fall, the summer tourists retreat, and the foliage serves as the perfect backdrop to the rocky cliffs and coastline.

When you're ready to officially embark on your national park road trip, head south for about 13 hours until reaching Shenandoah National Park. Break up the drive with a stop in either Boston or New York City. Distance : 780 miles.

Shenandoah National Park, Virginia

Shenandoah extends along the ridge of Virginia's section of the Blue Ridge Mountains, and offers 200,000 acres of protected lands and over 500 miles of hiking trails. Rolling hills reach down into green valleys and farmland, offering views that are easily accessible from points along Skyline Drive, the main road that cuts through the center of the park. Stay at the Residence Inn or Fairfield Inn & Suites , in the city of Harrisonburg, for 17,500 Marriott points per night. If you are up for a strenuous and technical hike, don't miss Old Rag — but be sure to reach the trailhead early to avoid crowds.

Then, drive south for about five and a half hours to the Pisgah National Forest. Distance : 330 miles.

Pisgah National Forest, North Carolina

Home to some of the tallest mountains on the East Coast, North Carolina's Pisgah National Forest is filled with grassy balds (treeless summits covered only by native grasses and shrubs) affording hikers uninterrupted views and an "alpine" feel that is rare in climates such as this. The nearby mountain town of Asheville has a number of accommodation options, ranging from a Hyatt Place Asheville Downtown ($198 or 12,00 World of Hyatt points per night) to The Omni Grove Park Inn (from $239). Head into town to sample classic North Carolina barbecue at the 12 Bones Smokehouse.

The drive to the next destination, Great Smoky Mountain National Park, is just over two hours away, which leaves plenty of time to explore both areas. Distance : 100 miles .

Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Tennessee

In 2017, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park was the most visited in the country — and for good reason. With more than 800 miles of hiking trails meandering around some of the oldest mountains on Earth, coupled with the area's distinct southern hospitality, the Smokies are a highlight any time of year. But the mountainscape is especially lovely in autumn, when the fall foliage transforms the park. Spend the night at the The Park Vista, a DoubleTree by Hilton in nearby Gatlinburg, Tennessee for $104 or 31,000 Hilton Honors points per night. Travelers can also retire to a rustic lodge or cabin rental in Gatlinburg or Pigeon Forge. Be sure to hike or drive to the top of Clingman's Dome — the highest peak in Tennessee — for 360-degree views of the iconic mist-covered mountains.

The drive to the next destination, the Ozarks National Forest, will take approximately 11 hours. Luckily, the most direct route will bring you through Nashville and Memphis, both of which are great options for splitting up the drive. Distance : 750 miles.

Ozarks National Forest, Arkansas

Arkansas is home to deep valleys and rolling mountaintops blanketed in the wild Ozarks National Forest. Hike to the 209-foot Hemmed-in-Hollow Falls, which is the tallest waterfall between the Appalachians and the Rockies; explore the nearby town of Fayetteville, Arkansas; and spend the night at The Chancellor Hotel . If you want to do some leaf-peeping this autumn, venture over to the Sylamore District of the Ozarks. The nearby Mountain View area hosts a handful of fall festivals and bluegrass concerts.

The next drive to the Great Sand Dunes National Park will be another long one: just over 12 hours. Get it all out of the way in one shot, or spend a night in Oklahoma City. Distance : 760 miles.

Great Sand Dunes National Park, Colorado

Discover towering sand dunes, similar to what you might expect to find in the Sahara Desert, in the middle of Colorado — along with snow-covered mountains and prairie-like grasslands. These are just a few of the diverse ecosystems you'll find in Colorado's Great Sand Dunes National Park. Although there are no towns immediately near the park, Zapata Ranch offers overnight lodging and vacation packages for road trippers who'd prefer not to camp. Don't forget to try your hand at sand boarding or sand sledding before heading to the next destination.

After the last long stretch, you'll be delighted to find that the drive to Rocky Mountain National Park is only five hours north of the Dunes. Distance : 300 miles.

Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado

Glacial basins, towering ridges and alpine terrain, accessible by more than 300 miles of hiking trails and two scenic roads (one of which is the highest paved road in the US), make Rocky Mountain National Park one of the most beautiful places in the country. Enjoy the diverse wildlife and hikes suitable for all experience levels before bedding down at The Ridgeline Hotel , located in Estes Park. The property boasts modern amenities in a casual mountain-inspired space (expect lots of blonde wood and ensuite fireplaces). When you're finished in the park, head over to Elkins Distilling Company, one of only a handful of high-altitude distilleries in the nation.

The next destination — Utah's Arches and Canyonlands National Parks — are five and a half hours southwest. During the drive, you will see the landscape morph from snow-capped peaks to red sandstone cliffs. Distance : 400 miles.

Arches and Canyonlands National Parks, Utah

Located just outside of Moab the Arches and Canyonlands parks offer an impressive introduction to the vast and dramatic desert landscape that makes up much of Utah. Arches National Park is filled with spectacular, natural sandstone (you guessed it) arches, formed by erosion. Many of these arches are easily reached from the road or with short walks, and because Arches is the more accessible of the two parks, it is often the most crowded. Canyonlands is the less-popular neighbor. Though the landscape is similar, it's a much larger park — and somewhat more stark and wild. The town of Moab offers a handful of lodging options and restaurants, including a Holiday Inn Express & Suites ($180 or 40,000 IHG points).

After a restful night in Moab, begin the drive to the Grand Canyon. This will take between five to seven hours, depending on which part of the park you decide to visit first. Distance : 300 miles.

Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona

This bucket-list destination is home to the deepest and most spectacular canyon in the country, and cracks open millions of years of geologic history. While many choose to view the canyon from the park's numerous pull-outs and viewpoints, one of the best ways to get a sense of perspective is by embarking on one of the many hiking trails that trace the canyon's rim and even descend into its depths. The Grand Hotel at Grand Canyon , located just one mile from the entrance to the South Rim, is the only three-diamond hotel in the region. If you are looking for a more extreme and off-the-beaten-path adventure, try the 3,200-foot-long zip line at Grand Canyon West; or take the 20-mile round trip hike to the emerald-blue waters of Havasupai Falls. Camping permits for Havasupai must be acquired in advance, and can be difficult to claim.

Once you're ready to move on, head north back over the Utah border — a drive that can take between two and four hours — to Zion National Park. Distance : 100 miles.

Zion National Park, Utah

Located in southwestern Utah, Zion National Park encompasses nearly 230-square-miles of red and pink sandstone cliffs, narrow slot canyons and the prominent Zion Canyon, which spans more than 15 miles and cuts up to a half-mile deep. Spend the night at the Hampton Inn and Suites in Springdale ($175 or 39,000 Hilton Honors points per night) to take advantage of the free breakfast, before starting one of the most popular hikes in the park, called The Narrows. Hikers will move through the most tapered section of Zion Canyon, and the trail requires wading in the Virgin River. Depending on the route you choose, a permit may be required to complete this hike.

After Zion, head west for about eight hours until reaching Yosemite National Park. Enter from the east side of the park, from the town of Lee Vining, California. Distance: 47 0 miles.

Yosemite National Park, California

Famous for its sheer granite cliff faces, spectacular waterfalls and glacier-carved valleys, Yosemite has been a mecca for rock climbers and mountaineers for nearly two centuries. But that doesn't mean non-climbers will enjoy the park any less. Yosemite has a well-maintained network of auto roads and 750 miles of trails. Located in June Lake, the Double Eagle Resort and Spa is a four-season resort perfect for travelers who want a relaxing place to unwind after a long day driving. And the resort is just 12 miles from the park entrance. One of the best ways to experience Yosemite is by hiking and backpacking. For road-trippers who'd rather not venture into the backcountry without a guide, REI Adventures offers a variety of trips that cater to hikers of all experience levels, ranging from four to seven-day outings, depending on your schedule. After Labor Day, the crowds thin significantly, and the foliage on the oaks, maples and dogwoods begins to transform into a riot of hues.

After spending time in Yosemite, the route shifts north, with an eight-hour drive to Crater Lake National Park in Oregon. Distance: 450 miles.

Crater Lake National Park, Oregon

Formed by a violent volcanic eruption some 7,700 years ago, Crater Lake is the deepest in the United States and arguably the most pristine in the world, making it worthy of the creation of Oregon's singular national park. From the loop road, visitors can admire the deep sapphire blue waters and imposing silhouette of the Cascade Mountains. There are also excellent hiking trails that lead to the multiple summits framing the lake. Garfield Peak, for example, is accessible via a 3.4-mile out and back trail. The hike can get very crowded, however, and is strenuous at times. Built in 1915, Crater Lake Lodge , which has a rustic northwest vibe, is the perfect place to rest a road (and trail) weary head.

Next, continue north for about seven hours to Olympic National Park. The cities of Portland and Seattle are great destinations to visit if you are looking for a break from nature (read: better food and coffee). Distance : 400 miles.

Olympic National Park, Washington

One of the most unique national parks in the country, Olympic is home to several different ecosystems scattered across its almost one million acres. Visitors will find glacier-capped mountains, old-growth temperate rainforests and ragged coastline. Due to its vastness, the best way to explore this park is to leave the car behind and head out on foot. Hurricane Ridge is a great year-round attraction, offering hikes in the summer and lift-access skiing and snowboarding during the winter. The Lake Crescent Lodge is located within park boundaries, and it's a tranquil retreat with a mix of rooms and cabins. If you decide instead to stay in Seattle, book a room at the Fairmont Olympic Hotel with The Platinum Card® from American Express. As it's a member of Amex Fine Hotels & Resorts, you'll get an upgrade upon arrival (depending on availability), a $100 food and beverage credit and complimentary breakfast for two, along with other perks.

You can spend a long time in Olympic National Park and its surrounding cities. But when you're ready to move on, head north again for about four hours to the North Cascades National Park. The most direct route from the northern part of the park requires a ride on the Port Townsend-Coupeville Ferry. Distance : 170 miles.

North Cascades National Park, Washington

Located just a few hours from Seattle, the North Cascades National Park is a pristine alpine escape. There are two properties in the national park, including a lake resort and the North Cascades Lodge at Stehekin. For something more casual, consider an Airbnb (and put it on your Chase Sapphire Reserve for 3x points). Anglers will be happy to know that the park is home to a variety of salmon and steelhead trout and other species. Try your luck in the Skagit River, one of Washington's major watersheds. Grab a drink (after you're done driving for the day, of course) in the town of Bellingham at the new Twin Sisters Brewing Company.

At this point in the trip, you can make the decision to fly back east, or head eastbound by road, stopping at a few more major national parks. Distance : 500 miles.

Glacier National Park, Montana

Straddling the continental divide, Glacier National Park is home to headwaters that feed the Pacific Ocean, Gulf of Mexico and Hudson Bay. Over a thousand different plant species, along with hundreds of animal species, can be found in the park's mountainous alpine terrain, making it a great place to search for wildlife. While in the park, be sure to drive the Going-to-the-Sun Road, enjoying its many viewpoints along the way. Whitefish is a fun town to check out, and it's filled with plenty of shops, cafes and restaurants. Book a room at a historic lodge or inn, such as the Lodge at Whitefish Lake or the upscale Grouse Mountain Lodge .

Fill up your vehicle in town, and press on about six more hours to see Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Park. Distance : 400 miles.

Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming

Yellowstone National Park is a geologically unique landscape: of mountains, bubbling geysers and steaming hot springs. The adjacent Grand Teton National Park, on the other hand, offers some of the most rugged and rocky mountains in the country — with a fraction of the crowds. Spend a night at the 385-room Jackson Lake Lodge (a mix of suites, cottages and rooms), located in the Tetons, where guests can admire the view from 60-foot floor-to-ceiling windows. While in the area, be sure to visit the iconic Old Faithful geyser in Yellowstone, easily accessible via a paved walkway. Once you make your way south toward the Tetons, spend an evening wandering around the western mountain town of Jackson, and grab a meal at the famous Million Dollar Cowboy Steakhouse.

Alternate routes

If you decide to drive back instead of catching a flight, spend the next two or three days pressing eastward, stopping to visit a few more nation parks and forests. The George Washington and Jefferson National Forest in West Virginia, and the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area on the Pennsylvania/New Jersey border, for example, are great options.

And while the suggested route starts in the Northeast, there are endless variations of this trip, depending on where you live. For travelers based on the West Coast, consider beginning at Olympic National Park and working your way to Glacier, Yellowstone and the Tetons before heading east.

Find anything you save across the site in your account

Hit All 47 National Parks in the Continental U.S. on One Road Trip

By Stefanie Waldek

Ladies and gentleman, start your engines! In honor of the 100th anniversary of the National Park Service, data scientist Randy Olson has determined the optimal route to visit all 47 national parks in the continental U.S. Olson first wowed the Internet when he devised a 224-hour behemoth drive that hit major sites in every state in the Lower 48, and he continues to inspire with what could be the most scenic cross-country road trip ever. Along the way, you’ll likely discover National Parks you didn’t even know existed, like Dry Tortugas in the Florida Keys, Cuyahoga Valley in Ohio, and Isle Royale National Park in Michigan. With 14,498 miles of pavement to cover, Olson estimates the whole trip will take two months to complete “ at breakneck pace .” As the route is continuous, you’re able to start wherever is most convenient to you. All you have to do is quit your day job and get packing! For more details about the roadtrip, visit randalolson.com .

A screenshot of Olson’s route.

By Katherine McLaughlin

By Rachel Wallace

By David Sokol

By Rachel Davies

How to visit all of California's national parks in one epic road trip

Mar 14, 2022 • 12 min read

A road trip to California’s national parks will show you the best of the state’s stunningly diverse landscapes © Albert Pego / Shutterstock

California is romanticized for its sparkly Pacific oceanfronts, thickets of palm trees and glass-walled high-rise buildings in the big coastal cities. But the state consists of so much more than its famed southern coast.

If you go north, inland or even offshore, you’ll be treated to dazzlingly unique terrain, insanely diverse ecosystems and eyebrow-raising history lessons — all of which you can experience through the nine (yes, nine!) US national parks in the Golden State.

Each of these parks represents a distinct piece of California’s beautiful, multifaceted puzzle. Here's how to visit them all in a single trip that you’ll talk about — to anyone and everyone who will listen — for the rest of your life.

Breaking down the itinerary

• Total parks visited: nine
• The parks: Joshua Tree National Park, Sequoia National Park, Death Valley National Park, Kings Canyon National Park, Pinnacles National Park, Yosemite National Park, Lassen Volcanic National Park, Redwood National and State Parks, Channel Islands National Park
• Total trip time: 17 days, starting from Los Angeles
• Total mileage: 2,003 (may vary depending on your exact route and road closures)  

Day one: Los Angeles to Joshua Tree  National Park

Leave LA in the morning, and travel 131 miles to Joshua Tree, where you’ll camp.

Day two: Hang out in Joshua Tree 

Spend the day in Joshua Tree National Park; camp here for a second night.

Where to stay

Joshua Tree National Park has several campgrounds. Take your pick, but book far in advance if your trip will take place between October and May — the cooler months are busy in the desert parks. If you want to lodge, check for availability in the nearby towns of Yucca Valley, Joshua Tree and Twentynine Palms.

Need-to-know

Desert weather can change suddenly. It’s not uncommon for dampened fires to reignite when nighttime winds fan the embers. Make sure to fully put out your fire, and secure any items that may fly away in strong winds. 

How to get around

Joshua Tree is a relatively small park and easy to navigate. Park Blvd runs through the entirety of the park, with offshoots to get to attractions. You can drive your vehicle to almost all of them, and trailheads too.

What to do while you’re here

Joshua Tree has several hikes ranging from easy to hard, and ample rock-climbing and bouldering opportunities. One fun thing to do in Joshua Tree is drive down Park Blvd to see the flora shift from Joshua Tree groves to thickets of yucca cacti.

Day 3: Joshua Tree to Death Valley  National Park

Leave Joshua Tree in the morning and drive 228 miles to Death Valley, where you’ll camp or lodge.

Day 4: Take in the scenery in Death Valley 

Spend the day in Death Valley National Park; camp or lodge here again.

Death Valley National Park has primitive and full-hookup campgrounds, and lodges  ranging from basic to luxurious. All but one of the campgrounds are first-come, first-serve, but you need reservations for a lodge.

Camping is probably not the best option if you visit Death Valley in the summer months — temperatures can remain high, up to 100ºF (38ºC) throughout the night, and spike as early as 9am. It's not a great idea in the middle of winter either, when temperatures can drop below freezing at night.

The best way to get around Death Valley is by car. Highways stretch far and wide throughout the park, along with offshoot roads to get to attractions and trailheads. The National Park Service recommends keeping hiking to a minimum in the summer, due to extreme temperatures.

Walk out to the biggest, sparkliest dunes at Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes ; drive Artists Drive to see mountains in shades of seafoam and mauve; visit Badwater Basin (the lowest place on earth at 282ft below sea level); and check out Ubehebe Crater on the north side of the park.

Day 5: Death Valley to Sequoia National Park

Leave Death Valley in the morning, and travel 268 miles to Sequoia National Park, where you’ll camp or lodge.

Sequoia offers incredible camping opportunities, with both primitive and developed campgrounds. There is one developed lodge in Sequoia National Park, Wuksachi Lodge , as well as a primitive lodge maintained by an NPS partner.

The road between Sequoia National Park and Kings Canyon National Park can close during the winter due to snow. If you plan to visit during the winter months, check for road closures and adjust your route as needed.

Generals Highway traverses the entire park; you’ll drive your vehicle to and from all trailheads and attractions. There are parking areas along the way, though parking can be tough to find in the summer.

You’ll never be able to do everything in Sequoia National Park in just a day or two, but you can get a good idea of what the park has to offer. Spend some time romping around Giant Forest to understand the sheer size of Sequoia's trees; hike to Little Baldy for a relatively quick trek with a fantastic payoff; and see the huge  General Sherman Tree (the world’s largest tree by volume).

Day 6: Sequoia to Kings Canyon  National Park

Spend the day in Sequoia; move on to Kings Canyon National Park (48 miles) in the evening, where you’ll camp or lodge.

Day 7: Spend time in Kings Canyon

Spend the day in Kings Canyon National Park, then drive 112 miles to Yosemite National Park, where you’ll camp or lodge.

Like Sequoia, Kings Canyon National Park has both camping and lodging options . Make reservations in advance and check to ensure your vehicle isn’t too large for the campground you book.

It seems like Sequoia and Kings Canyon are one and the same, but the parks do have defined borders — they are connected by Generals Highway, but closures can occur. Check the driving guidelines from the NPS to make sure your route and vehicle are appropriate. Depending on your vehicle and the season, you may have to exit Sequoia and drive around the park to get to Kings Canyon.

You’ll get around mainly by vehicle in Kings Canyon National Park, hopping out to travel on foot for hikes and attractions.

See General Grant , the second-largest tree in the world; walk up 172 steps to Buck Rock’s dizzying 8205-foot lookout; and enjoy the view at Kings Canyon Overlook off Generals Highway.

Day 8: Explore Yosemite  National Park

Spend the day in Yosemite; camp or lodge here.

For quieter camping, camp on the east side of Yosemite near or in Tuolumne Meadows . If you want to lodge, you can choose one of the many options within the park .

Two main roads in Yosemite, Tioga Road (Hwy 120) and Glacier Point Road, close in the winter due to snow. They usually reopen in May or June — plan your trip accordingly. If you want to see wildlife, spend more time in the Tuolumne Meadows area, rather than the valley.

Yosemite is well-developed, with many roads, paved walking trails, boardwalks and unpaved trails. There is also a shuttle system in the valley area. If you visit during the summer, be prepared for congested traffic and trouble with parking. Getting around by bike or foot is typically easier during the summer months.

Yosemite has so many attractions that it can be tough to choose which ones to see. With limited time, see  El Capitan and Half Dome from the valley floor, hike Tuolumne Meadows Trail to Soda Springs , or raft down the Merced River (summer or spring). For an expansive view of the famous granite structures, drive to Tunnel View on Wawona Road.

Day 9: Yosemite to Lassen  Volcanic National Park

Leave Yosemite by early afternoon and travel 301 miles to Lassen, where you’ll camp or lodge.

Day 10: Stay overnight in  Lassen

Spend the day in Lassen Volcanic National Park; camp or lodge here.

There is only one lodge in Lassen Volcanic National Park , Drakesbad Guest Ranch , but there are many campgrounds . Most campgrounds require advance reservations, and some are first-come, first-served.

Park Highway (Hwy 89) closes past the Kohm Yah-mah-nee Visitor Center during the winter months. The visitor center itself can also close during winter storms. While in the park, stay on established trails and boardwalks. Hydrothermal areas can be disguised and dangerous, and visitors who travel off-trail can suffer severe burns.

Lassen Volcanic National Park has several roads running through the park, but they can all close due to snowfall. The NPS highly encourages checking road conditions before you visit, or simply visiting after roads are cleared in April.

Lassen Volcanic National Park is quintessential northern California: It shows off with glistening mountain lakes, snowy peaks, and lush meadows. But the park’s real claim to fame are the boiling hydrothermal areas and volcanoes. Backpacking, hiking, biking and auto-touring are popular activities for seeing the attractions.

Day 11: Lassen to Redwood National Park

Leave Lassen Volcanic National Park by mid-morning; travel 177 miles to Redwood National Park, where you’ll camp or lodge.

Day 12: Mess around in the Redwoods

Spend the day in Redwood National Park; camp or lodge here again.

Redwood National Park — technically known as Redwood National and State Parks — has eight basic campground cabins but very limited lodging. If you want a real roof over your head, consider staying outside of the park in nearby communities.

The campground cabins tend to book up several months in advance, so if you're keen to stay in them, be sure to plan well ahead of your trip. 

The park is mostly oriented around US Highway 101, the corridor that runs north and south along most of California. Many other roads, including designated scenic drives, run throughout the park. 

Marvel at some of the tallest known trees in the world, obviously! Aside from craning your neck to attempt to see the tops of coastal redwoods, biking, hiking, horseback riding and kayaking the Smith River (summer only) are popular activities.

Day 13: Redwoods to Pinnacles National Park

Leave the Redwoods by early morning and travel 437 miles to Pinnacles National Park, where you’ll camp or lodge.

Day 14: Escape the crowds at Pinnacles

Spend the day in Pinnacles; camp or lodge here again.

There is only one campground at Pinnacles National Park , and it’s on the east side of the park. The east and west sides of Pinnacles are not connected by road — only by hiking trails. If you plan to camp, make sure you enter on the east side through Hollister, California. You can lodge in Soledad, California, if you plan to enter on the west side.

On this trip, you only have time to enjoy one side of the park. Plan accordingly. Both the east and west side offer great hiking trails and California condor viewing, though the cave attractions differ.  

Highway 146 takes you into the west side, while highway 25 takes you into the east side. Both highways weave through the park for a few miles, and then it’s mainly foot traffic from there.

Pinnacles is one of the smaller national parks in California and has very limited facilities. Its lack of development makes for quiet hiking and uninterrupted wildlife-viewing. Make sure you shimmy through Bear Gulch Cave (east side) or Balconies Cave (west side), and look into the sky to see some condors (the largest land birds in North America!).

Day 15: Pinnacles to Ventura

Leave Pinnacles National Park and travel 233 miles to Ventura, California.

Day 16: Ventura to Channel Islands National Park

Make a reservation for an Island Packers tour to Channel Islands National Park. Head back to Los Angeles after the day tour, or stay in Ventura for another night.

Ditch your car or camper van for a night (it'll be safe in Ventura Harbor, or you can pay to park in a nearby garage) and take a park concessionaire boat to the island. Pitch a tent in one of the park's lush campgrounds or venture into the backcountry — but watch for ticks, and seal your food in rodent-proof containers. You can also opt to return to the mainland on the same day and lodge in the beachside town of Ventura.

There are no remedies for poor planning at Channel Islands National Park , so make sure you bring enough food, water, clothing and other supplies. You must reserve your Island Packers tour in advance — it’s likely that you’ll have to plan your entire trip around this day, because tours are limited and fill up fast.

You'll need fresh legs for a visit to the Channel Islands, as there's no transportation service on the islands. Everything must be accessed by foot or kayak, unless you have a private boat.

Island Packers boats most commonly go to Santa Cruz Island , the largest island in California at over 96 sq miles. On Santa Cruz, you can go hiking, bird-watching, snorkeling, kayaking and whale-watching. You can also peruse old Chumash Native American residences and ranching quarters from the 19th and 20th centuries.

Day 17 (optional): Return to LA

Travel back to Los Angeles (68 miles).

You might also like:   15 unforgettable experiences in US national parks    Why you should drive California's scenic Highway 395 The best free things to do in the US national parks   

This article was first published February 2020 and updated March 2022

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PRESENTED BY TRAVELODGE BY WYNDHAM

How to plan an epic summer trip to a national park

We’ve got insider tips on the best times to visit the most popular parks, timed entry passes, and where to stay.

As summer approaches, the siren call of national park adventures grows stronger. However, these iconic sites are bringing in unprecedented crowds.

In 2023, the National Park Service (NPS) reported over 300 million visits , a four percent increase from the previous year. This surge isn’t limited to famous spots; lesser known parks such as Congaree and Dry Tortugas are also experiencing record-breaking numbers. To manage the influx, park authorities are implementing innovative strategies to improve the guest experience.  

( These are the 10 most popular national parks .)

From snagging the perfect stay to timing your bookings just right, we’ve got insider tips to ensure your national park vacation is nothing short of epic. Here’s what you need to know.

Best time to visit

Timing is crucial in planning your summer getaway, especially if you’re eyeing popular national parks. Finding affordable lodging and activities during the high season can be tricky.

During the shoulder seasons—early- to mid-spring and late fall—you can expect pleasant weather and a reprieve from the crowds, but there are a few trade-offs to consider. Some hotels and lodges might close during the off-season and reopen later in the year, potentially limiting your accommodation options. Additionally, parks at higher elevations, such as Glacier or Lassen Volcanic , may not have all their trails open and could require snowshoes or traction cleats to get around.

( Here’s why Yellowstone in the off-season is great for families .)  

Arriving before sunrise has its perks, too. Typically, most visitors don’t arrive until mid-to-late morning, allowing you to enjoy attractions like Arches ’ Windows or Delicate Arch with minimal crowds, provided you arrive early enough.

When permitted, exploring the parks in winter offers a unique perspective that few experience. Yosemite Valley, for instance, transforms into a winter wonderland —a sight cherished by photographers and nature enthusiasts alike.

Tony McDaniel, a Yosemite   Mariposa County spokesperson, says the best way to plan a visit is to avoid taking a “checklist approach” to your visit.

“Slow down and immerse yourself in the destination,” McDaniel says. “There’s no place on earth like Yosemite National Park , and it’s best seen slowly and outside of a vehicle where you can fully embrace the sights, sounds, and smells.”

What parks require timed entry passes?

Timed entry reservations typically provide access within a two-hour window. The price of the pass, however, does not include the standard park entry fee. But, a separate timed entry permit is unnecessary if you already have campground reservations, a wilderness permit, or bookings for a pre-arranged, park-sponsored activity. Additionally, if you plan to stay inside the park for multiple days, only one timed entry reservation is required—just make sure not to leave the park during your visit.

Although these passes can reduce a trip’s spontaneity, NPS spokeswoman Kathy Kupper says they also lead to better park experiences.

“Visitors love the timed entry system,” Kupper says, “because it gives them increased confidence that they’ll be able to get in and get where they want to go.”

If you miss out on a timed entry reservation, don’t fret. Ditch your car and opt to walk or bike into the park at any time of day. Glacier National Park adjusts its timed entry program annually, including relocating entry gates beyond the visitor center, where guests can hop on a shuttle bus to access the park.

( Ready to plan your fall hike? Read this safety advice first .)

Arches: Timed entry reservations will be required from April 1 to October 31. The reservation system operates on a rolling basis. For example, June 1–30 bookings opened March 1; July 1–31 reservations opened April 1. A limited number of reservations will also be released at 7 p.m. MST the day before, providing some flexibility for last-minute planners to Utah.

Glacier: For travelers intending to drive along the iconic Going-to-the-Sun Road or head to North Fork, Montana, a vehicle reservation is mandatory between 6 a.m. and 3 p.m. from May 24 to September 8. Similarly, from July 1 to September 8, a reservation is required to access Many Glacier between 6 a.m. and 3 p.m. These reservations can be secured up to 120 days or approximately four months in advance, starting at 8 a.m. MST. Additionally, a limited number of next-day vehicle reservations will be released at 7 p.m. MST for those seeking entry on the following day on a rolling basis.

Mount Rainier : Two areas of this Washington State park—Paradise Corridor from the south and Sunrise Corridor from the northeast—will require reservations from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m., May 24-September 2, and July 4-September 2, respectively. Each corridor requires a separate vehicle reservation, valid for a single day per vehicle. Note that reservations are unnecessary when entering the park from a different entrance.

Rocky Mountain :   Between May 24 and October 20, reservations are required for entry into this Colorado park. Two types of reservations will be available: one granting access to the entire park, including the bustling Bear Lake Road Corridor from 5 a.m. to 6 p.m., and another from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. that excludes access to this corridor. Reservations for May 24 to June 30 can be secured starting at 8 a.m. on May 1. Subsequent reservation releases will follow, with reservations for July becoming available on June 1, and so forth.

Yosemite: Reservations are needed from April to October. On Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays (May 27, June 19, September 2, and October 14) from April 13 to June 30 and August 17 to October 27, reservations are required from 5 a.m. to 4 p.m. From July 1 to August 16, reservations are needed daily during the same hours.

( Discover the best day hikes in Yosemite National Park .)

What parks require a specific area pass?

Acadia : In Maine, Cadillac Mountain Summit Road vehicle reservations are required from May 22 to October 27. About one-third of them can be purchased 90 days in advance, while the rest become available two days before, starting at 10 a.m. Reservations cost $6 and are sold only at https://www.recreation.gov/timed-entry/400000 .

Great Smoky Mountains : While you don’t need a timed entry reservation to enter this Tennessee-North Carolina park, you will need a parking permit to stop for more than 15 minutes. Passes are $5 (daily),   $15 (weekly), and $40 (annually). Permits can be purchased in person or online . Passes are good for one vehicle only.

( See fireflies magically light up this national park .)

Haleakalā : To park at Hawaii’s Haleakalā summit for sunrise, you’ll need a parking pass from 3 to 7 a.m. throughout the year.

Shenandoah : Visitors hiking Virginia’s Old Rag Mountain must obtain a $2 day-use ticket in advance from March 1 to November 30. Of the 800 tickets issued daily, 400 will be released 30 days in advance, with the remaining 400 released five days beforehand on https://www.recreation.gov/ticket/10088450/ticket/10088451 .

Zion: You’ll need a timed permit to hike Angel’s Landing in Utah. Lotteries open for June-August hikes on April 1, September-November on July 1, and December-February on October 1. A limited number of next-day licenses will be available at 12:01 a.m. the day before. Hiking groups of up to six people can apply for a permit. Winning groups will be charged an additional $3 per person.

( Not a hiker? That’s not a problem at these eight national parks .)

Best alternatives to national parks

If you’re visiting in the summer, don’t have a reservation, and couldn’t get into the park early enough, you still have options. State parks and national forests surrounding official national parks often offer similar views but with few visitors.  

( Go wild—and skip the crowds—at these 7 spectacular parks .)

For example, if you get shut out of Utah’s Bryce Canyon , you can always drive 15 minutes away to the picturesque Dixie National Forest . Instead of being shoulder-to-shoulder with thousands of other visitors on the trails, you’ll be almost entirely alone while overlooking nearly identical scenes.

Where to stay in or near a popular park

Most NPS campgrounds can be reserved six months in advance on a rolling basis through Recreation.gov, but the most popular sites, including Yellowstone ’s Slough Creek or Watchman in Zion , can sell out within minutes. Even if you miss out, you still have plenty of options.  

“For something similar to camping in Yosemite Valley, Housekeeping Camp or Curry Village are as close as you’ll get to camping, plus you don’t need to bring a tent,” says McDaniel. “In areas like Wawona, Yosemite West, and Foresta, there are cabin rentals that will still get you into the park. Outside the park, there are hundreds of more options in great locations and historic towns that are generally more budget-friendly and put visitors close to more dining options.”

( These historic lodges are the perfect way to see North America’s wild parks .)

Nearby national forests and Bureau of Land Management areas typically offer established campgrounds or free dispersed camping (areas outside a designated campground). Sites are generally first-come, first-served. Arrive at an established campground between 10 a.m. and noon to score a recently vacated site.

Apps like AllStays and sites like freecampsites.net and Campendium can help tremendously. Signal Mountain Campground in Wyoming’s Grand Teton National Park sells out almost immediately, but on a recent trip to the park, I found an incredible mountaintop dispersed campsite, in   Bridger-Teton National Forest . The view of the Tetons was spectacular, made even better because the campsite was free.

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Utah National Park Road Trips With Scenic Stops

• There are plenty of scenic Utah national park road trip routes, especially since the state offers unique national parks with dramatic formations like arches, bridges, and canyons.
• Invest in an America the Beautiful Parks pass for $80 to save on entry fees at multiple park sites.
• Explore themed national park road trip itineraries in Utah, with routes featuring multiple park stops all in one trip.

Utah is one of the top destinations in the US for outdoor adventurers, home to many of America's bucket list hiking trails . With five national parks and 11 other national park sites (including national monuments, recreation areas, and conservation areas), it's no surprise some of the most bucket-list-worthy national park road trips take place in Utah.

Utah's national park sites protect some of the most unusual formations in the world. Hoodoos, natural bridges, mineral caves, and sheer canyon walls are just some of the dramatic structures road trippers can expect to find on a trip around Utah. From weekend loops to treks across the state, these Utah national park road trip routes are excellent ways to explore the national park sites in the Beehive State.

For those worried about the price tag of a national park road trip, consider investing in an America the Beautiful Parks pass , one of the best ways to visit national parks for cheap all year long. At $80, the pass grants free entry for the pass holder and their passengers to all NPS, BLM, and USDA Forest Service sites for one year, which can save a lot for those who visit parks often.

10 Dog-Friendly State Parks In Utah

Arches & bridges of utah, national park sites visited: 4.

Arches National Park may host the highest concentration of natural arches and bridges in the world, but there are actually three national park sites in Utah dedicated to these natural formations. Both Natural Bridges National Monument and Rainbow Bridge National Monument also protect one-of-a-kind arch formations, and they combine nicely with Arches National Park for a themed Utah national park road trip itinerary.

Starting in Moab with Arches National Park, Utah road trippers move south towards Natural Bridges National Monument. This is where the road trip takes a bit of a turn. Rainbow Bridge National Monument is part of Glen Canyon National Recreation Area, meaning that guests can enjoy two national park sites at once.

However, while this may be a road trip, getting to the Rainbow Arch itself won't be that easy. The only way to see one Rainbow Bridge National Monument, one of the world's largest natural bridges , is to catch a boat ride from Lake Powell or take the multi-day 14-mile (each way) hike through the Navajo Nation . As the last stop of this national park road trip route in Utah, these exhausting excursions may be the perfect escape from the car for a grand road trip finale.

• Road Trip Route: Moab → Arches National Park → Natural Bridges National Monument → Glen Canyon National Recreation Area/Rainbow Bridge National Monument
• Recommended Time: 3–4 days

Arches National Park is one of several US national parks that require reservations in 2024 . Be sure to visit the National Park Service website to get a timed entry reservation made ahead of time.

The Alpine Loop

National park sites visited: 2.

The Alpine Loop is a favorite for local Utahns looking for an afternoon drive, but with the right stops, this drive can easily become an exceptional national park road trip in Utah.

The entirety of the Alpine Loop is, in fact, in Uinta National Forest. Camping opportunities along the Loop, which stretches from American Fork Canyon to Provo Canyon, are plentiful, as are scenic hiking trails through the Aspen trees. The steep canyon walls also lend themselves to dramatic waterfalls, like the scenic Stewart Falls Trail .

As a Utah national park road trip, however, there is one more can't-miss stop on this weekend getaway. Timpanogos Caves National Monument in American Fork Canyon is one of Utah's most unique national park sites, requiring a moderate hike up switchbacks before reaching the caves themselves. Timpanogos Cave can only be explored as part of a tour, but the stalactites and stalagmites in the damp mountain caves are well worth the effort.

• Road Trip Route: Alpine Loop Byway (American Fork Canyon to Provo Canyon)
• Recommended Time: 1–2 days

10 Affordable Small Towns To Retire In Utah

Southeastern utah road trip, national park sites visited: 3.

There are countless scenic Utah road trips , ranging from just a few miles to all-day drives across the state. If even exploring half of the state isn't quite possible, one of the shorter Utah national park road trip itineraries through a small region may be the perfect solution. The Southeastern portion of Utah is rich in national and state park sites, ideal for a smaller-scale road trip.

Moab makes an excellent home base for this road trip, sitting just outside Arches National Park and just an hour from Goblin Valley State Park, one of the many Utah state park alternatives to Zion National Park and the perfect substitute for making the drive to the other side of the state.

At just 370 miles to drive, this loop is far more manageable for those looking for a long weekend-length road trip through Utah's national parks.

• Road Trip Route: Moab → Arches National Park → Canyonlands National Park → Goblin Valley State Park → Natural Bridges National Monument → Moab

Utah National Monuments Road Trip

National park sites visited: 8.

Utah has eight dedicated national monuments, in addition to the famous national parks. Seven of these national monuments work nicely to create one of the most unique and varied national park road trips in Utah from Salt Lake City. Following I-15 from Salt Lake to American Fork, road trippers will first detour to the Alpine loop to explore Timpanogos Cave National Monument in Uinta National Forest. A challenging hike to a mountain cave, Timpanogos Cave is the perfect first stop before heading to the rocky terrain of the rest of the trip.

The other four national monuments are in the southern portion of the state. From the ancient structures of Hovenweep National Monument to the red rocks of Cedar Breaks National Monument, this expansive road trip is a chance to explore the hidden gems of Utah, with fewer crowds but plenty of scenic national park views.

• Road Trip Route: Salt Lake City → Timpanogos Cave National Monument → Bears Ears National Monument → Hovenweep National Monument → Natural Bridges National Monument → Rainbow Bridge National Monument/Glen Canyon National Recreation Area → Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument → Cedar Breaks National Monument → Cedar City
• Recommended Time: 7–10 days

Zion National Park & Dixie National Forest Road Trip

Zion National Park is the most-visited national park in Utah and was one of the most visited national parks in the US in 2023 . Many travelers recommend spending two or even three days exploring this spectacular park, including taking several scenic drives (or hopping on the eco-friendly shuttle) through the park.

Given the time spent in Zion National Park itself, limiting additional road trip stops might be necessary. By starting in Saint George in southwestern Utah, adventurers on a Utah national park road trip itinerary with scenic stops can stop in Red Cliffs National Conservation Area and Snow Canyon State Park on their way to Zion. After spending the desired time in Zion, and potentially even taking on one of America's most dangerous hikes (Angel's Landing), the road heads north to Dixie National Forest.

One of the numerous hidden gem destinations in Utah, Dixie National Forest is full of unique attractions of its own, including an arch that travelers can drive through and Red Canyon, one of the most underrated and worthwhile places to visit in Southern Utah.

• Road Trip Route: Saint George → Snow Canyon State Park → Red Cliffs National Conservation Area → Zion National Park → Dixie National Forest
• Recommended Time: 4–6 days

Got more time? By ending in Dixie National Forest, Utah national park road trip travelers are well-positioned to add Capitol Reef and even Canyonlands National Park to the road trip itinerary.

10 Hiking Capitals Of America

Route 89 road trip: the utah stretch.

Route 89 is often considered America's most scenic road trip , and for good reason. In its entirety, Route 89 visits seven national parks and 14 national park sites between Montana and Arizona. The Utah stretch of this picturesque drive takes travelers from Kanab in Southern Utah all the way to Bear Lake on the Utah-Idaho border.

The main national parks along this road are Zion National Park and Bryce Canyon National Park, both of which have their own scenic drives and hiking trails. For those interested in going further north, views of national forests as well as opportunities to detour to major cities like Provo and Salt Lake City help balance the attractions along this one-of-a-kind Utah national park road trip route.

• Road Trip Route: Kanab → Zion National Park → Bryce Canyon National Park → Provo → Salt Lake City → Logan → Garden City/Bear Lake

Mighty 5 Utah Road Trip

National park sites visited: 5.

The five national parks in Utah are perfectly spaced for one of the best national park road trips in the US with scenic stops , and it is arguably the most popular road trip route in Utah.

Starting in Salt Lake City, travelers can point their loop toward either Zion National Park or Arches National Park. For those starting in Zion National Park, road trippers will slowly move east across Southern Utah before moving north, ending at Arches National Park and returning to Salt Lake City.

One of the great advantages of the Mighty Five road trip is the ability to add plenty of additional stops, including Snow Canyon State Park near Zion and Goblin Valley State Park near Moab and Arches.

• Road Trip Route: Salt Lake City → Zion National Park → Bryce Canyon National Park → Capitol Reef National Park → Canyonlands National Park → Arches National Park → Salt Lake City
• Recommended Time: 5–8 days

There are a variety of ways to enjoy the Mighty 5 Utah road trip. For a more linear route, travelers can start in Salt Lake and go towards Arches National Park, moving westward and ending in Zion National Park. This opens the possibility of heading to Las Vegas, Nevada instead of simply returning to Salt Lake at the end of the trip.

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The AllTrails app is the ultimate digital hiking guide for National Parks Week

Plan all your National Parks Week adventures with trail maps, recommendations, and more from AllTrails.

Updated April 21, 2024

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What is the AllTrails app?

Download the AllTrails app to help you find the best routes to explore during National Parks Week

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From Yosemite to Acadia, National Park Week 2024 kicks off with free entry

National Park Week kicks off April 20 with free entry to every national park in America. 

That’s not just capital NP national parks like Grand Teton and Olympic , but all 429 sites within the National Park System , ranging from national battlefields to seashores.

Entry fees are only waived that first day, but there are special activities planned throughout National Park Week (and many sites don’t charge entry fees anyway).

"With countless options of things to do and see, there really is something for everyone in our country’s national parks,” National Park Service Director Chuck Sams said in a statement.

What travelers should know:

What is the purpose of National Park Week?

The first National Park Week in 1991 marked the 75th anniversary of the National Park Service.

The next wasn't until 1994, but since then, it’s become an annual, presidentially proclaimed celebration across America’s ever-growing list of national parks, according to National Park Service spokesperson Kathy Kupper.

“During National Park Week, and throughout the year, I encourage people to discover and enjoy the natural, cultural, historical, and recreational opportunities available in national parks and through National Park Service community programs,” Sams said.

How long is National Park Week?

National Park Week spans nine days. It runs from April 20 through April 28. 

Each day will spotlight a different parks-related theme.

◾ April 20: Discovery

◾ April 21: Volunteers 

◾ April 22: Earth Day 

◾ April 23: Innovation 

◾ April 24: Workforce Wednesday 

◾ April 25: Youth Engagement 

April 26: Community Connections 

◾ April 27: Junior Ranger Day

◾ April 28: Arts in Parks 

Travelers can find their nearest park through the National Park Service and National Park Foundation’s Find Your Park site.

What is the most visited national park? Answers to your biggest park questions

Are national parks free on Earth Day?

Not this year. Earth Day is April 22. 

Last year, it happened to coincide with the first day of National Park Week when parks offer free entry. 

However, this year, the first day of National Park Week is April 20.

When are all US national parks free?

There are five more free entry dates this year:

◾ April 20 : First day of  National Park Week

◾ June 19 : Juneteenth

◾ Aug. 4 : Great American Outdoors Day 

◾ Sept. 28  : National Public Lands Day

◾ Nov. 11 : Veterans Day

Martin Luther King Jr. Day was also an entry-fee-free day in January.

Certain groups like military service members, veterans , and U.S. citizens and permanent residents with permanent disabilities are eligible for free entry any time of year. Fourth graders and their families are also eligible for free park visits through the Every Kid Outdoors program.

Visitors should note some parks charge fees for parking , access to specific facilities, and other things, even when entry fees are waived.

What activities can people do when visiting the national park?

Activities vary by date and location and can be found on the National Park Service’s event calendar . Junior Ranger Day events include the chance to build biplane models at Tuskegee Airmen National Historic Site in Alabama and learn about the history of dogs in Hidatsa villages and earn a BARK Ranger badge for their own pups at Knife River Indian Villages National Historic Site in North Dakota.

“Of course, we hope that kids will want to protect parks and want to make sure that we pass on parks to the future generations of kids, but in order to do that, we have to make sure that we are letting kids come to our parks to have fun, to fall in love with nature, to fall in love with history and culture,” Caitlin Campbell, interpretation and engagement coordinator for the National Park Service, told USA TODAY.  “Our primary objective is to make sure that kids feel welcome in parks and know that parks are a fun and safe place where they belong.” 

All year long, kids of all ages and abilities are invited to take part in the free Junior Ranger program in parks and online .

"They can find Junior Ranger programming probably pretty close to where they live," she said. "Any day of the year, they could celebrate (being a) Junior Ranger, but we hope that they celebrate during National Park Week."

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Biden urges people to visit parks during National Park Week

By Rob Hotakainen | 04/19/2024 04:20 PM EDT

The president on Friday signed a proclamation designating April 20-28 as National Park Week, saying all Americans should “find their park, recreate responsibly, and enjoy the benefits that come from spending time in the natural world.”

President Joe Biden and first lady Jill Biden earlier this year walk with National Park Service rangers after they visited George Washington's headquarters at Valley Forge National Historical Park in Valley Forge, Pennsylvania. Stephanie Scarbrough/AP

President Joe Biden on Friday encouraged Americans to visit the nation’s parks and to take advantage of free admission on Saturday to kick off National Park Week.

“Each time my family and I have visited one, we have left feeling inspired by our nation’s natural beauty and humbled by the responsibility that we all share to make sure that it endures,” the president said in a statement. “This National Park Week, we recommit to the work of protecting our nation’s natural treasures for the ages.”

Biden signed a proclamation designating April 20-28 as National Park Week, urging “all Americans to find their park, recreate responsibly, and enjoy the benefits that come from spending time in the natural world.”

In his proclamation, Biden called parks part of “the heart and soul of our nation.”

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Things To Do | Free National Park Day is coming on Saturday,…

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Things to do | free national park day is coming on saturday, april 20, all national parks and monuments are free to visit..

Do you like the Great Outdoors?

For the kickoff of the annual National Park Week, which for 2024 will be held April 20-28, the park service is offering free admission to its parks and monuments on Saturday, April 20.

This can save you $50 or even more, but here’s what you need to know, from someone who’s taken advantage of it in the past.

Show up at dawn. Seriously. I know, I know. Don’t hurt me. But then you get there before the thundering hordes arrive. As you might guess, free passes are a huge draw.

You don’t need to sign up or register. Just show up and go.

Here are the nine national parks in California: Channel Islands (the boat ride won’t be free), Death Valley, Joshua Tree, Kings Canyon, Lassen, Pinnacles, Redwood, Sequoia, Yosemite. You can also drive to Zion National Park in Utah — one of my faves — in about eight hours.

Personally, I suggest Joshua Tree National Park, which is my favorite local place. I even bought a place there. Here’s how I do it:

Get on the road before dawn with snacks, sandwiches, water, a swimsuit and a towel. Watch the pink sun rise over Mt. San Jacinto, which is a truly beautiful sight. At this hour, there won’t be any traffic, so you should make it to the west park entrance in 90 minutes or so, depending obviously on where you start.

Head directly to the Wonderland of Rocks area from the town of Joshua Tree where there are several interesting trails. That’s my favorite part of the park. Alternately, you could keep driving to 29 Palms, and visit the park headquarters where there’s also a trail. We typically hike around until the crowds arrive around 11 a.m. Then we leave, stopping in town for early lunch, and head to Desert Hot Springs and buy a cheap day pass for the pools at the Desert Hot Springs Hotel & Spa. Yeah, it’s very ’70s and less than fancy. But the hot water feels great. You can also get a massage if you’ve booked it in advance.

Then, head home refreshed and with your head screwed on straight.

If you’ve never been to Yosemite, what the heck? Maybe April 20 is your day. Just be aware that there will still be snow up there, so dress warmly and check for road closures.

Note that there will be special national park events all week long, so take a look online to see what’s available. And enjoy!

Learn more: nps.gov

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A History of Moscow in 13 Dishes

Featured city guides.

Travel Itinerary For One Week in Moscow: The Best of Moscow!

I just got back from one week in Moscow. And, as you might have already guessed, it was a mind-boggling experience. It was not my first trip to the Russian capital. But I hardly ever got enough time to explore this sprawling city. Visiting places for business rarely leaves enough time for sightseeing. I think that if you’ve got one week in Russia, you can also consider splitting your time between its largest cities (i.e. Saint Petersburg ) to get the most out of your trip. Seven days will let you see the majority of the main sights and go beyond just scratching the surface. In this post, I’m going to share with you my idea of the perfect travel itinerary for one week in Moscow.

Moscow is perhaps both the business and cultural hub of Russia. There is a lot more to see here than just the Kremlin and Saint Basil’s Cathedral. Centuries-old churches with onion-shaped domes dotted around the city are in stark contrast with newly completed impressive skyscrapers of Moscow City dominating the skyline. I spent a lot of time thinking about my Moscow itinerary before I left. And this city lived up to all of my expectations.

Travel Itinerary For One Week in Moscow

Day 1 – red square and the kremlin.

Metro Station: Okhotny Ryad on Red Line.

No trip to Moscow would be complete without seeing its main attraction. The Red Square is just a stone’s throw away from several metro stations. It is home to some of the most impressive architectural masterpieces in the city. The first thing you’ll probably notice after entering it and passing vendors selling weird fur hats is the fairytale-like looking Saint Basil’s Cathedral. It was built to commemorate one of the major victories of Ivan the Terrible. I once spent 20 minutes gazing at it, trying to find the perfect angle to snap it. It was easier said than done because of the hordes of locals and tourists.

As you continue strolling around Red Square, there’s no way you can miss Gum. It was widely known as the main department store during the Soviet Era. Now this large (yet historic) shopping mall is filled with expensive boutiques, pricey eateries, etc. During my trip to Moscow, I was on a tight budget. So I only took a retro-style stroll in Gum to get a rare glimpse of a place where Soviet leaders used to grocery shop and buy their stuff. In case you want some modern shopping experience, head to the Okhotny Ryad Shopping Center with stores like New Yorker, Zara, and Adidas.

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To continue this Moscow itinerary, next you may want to go inside the Kremlin walls. This is the center of Russian political power and the president’s official residence. If you’re planning to pay Kremlin a visit do your best to visit Ivan the Great Bell Tower as well. Go there as early as possible to avoid crowds and get an incredible bird’s-eye view. There are a couple of museums that are available during designated visiting hours. Make sure to book your ticket online and avoid lines.

Day 2 – Cathedral of Christ the Saviour, the Tretyakov Gallery, and the Arbat Street

Metro Station: Kropotkinskaya on Red Line

As soon as you start creating a Moscow itinerary for your second day, you’ll discover that there are plenty of metro stations that are much closer to certain sites. Depending on your route, take a closer look at the metro map to pick the closest.

The white marble walls of Christ the Saviour Cathedral are awe-inspiring. As you approach this tallest Orthodox Christian church, you may notice the bronze sculptures, magnificent arches, and cupolas that were created to commemorate Russia’s victory against Napoleon.

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Unfortunately, the current Cathedral is a replica, since original was blown to bits in 1931 by the Soviet government. The new cathedral basically follows the original design, but they have added some new elements such as marble high reliefs.

Home to some precious collection of artworks, in Tretyakov Gallery you can find more than 150,000 of works spanning centuries of artistic endeavor. Originally a privately owned gallery, it now has become one of the largest museums in Russia. The Gallery is often considered essential to visit. But I have encountered a lot of locals who have never been there.

Famous for its souvenirs, musicians, and theaters, Arbat street is among the few in Moscow that were turned into pedestrian zones. Arbat street is usually very busy with tourists and locals alike. My local friend once called it the oldest street in Moscow dating back to 1493. It is a kilometer long walking street filled with fancy gift shops, small cozy restaurants, lots of cute cafes, and street artists. It is closed to any vehicular traffic, so you can easily stroll it with kids.

Day 3 – Moscow River Boat Ride, Poklonnaya Hill Victory Park, the Moscow City

Metro Station: Kievskaya and Park Pobedy on Dark Blue Line / Vystavochnaya on Light Blue Line

Voyaging along the Moscow River is definitely one of the best ways to catch a glimpse of the city and see the attractions from a bit different perspective. Depending on your Moscow itinerary, travel budget and the time of the year, there are various types of boats available. In the summer there is no shortage of boats, and you’ll be spoiled for choice.

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If you find yourself in Moscow during the winter months, I’d recommend going with Radisson boat cruise. These are often more expensive (yet comfy). They offer refreshments like tea, coffee, hot chocolate, and, of course, alcoholic drinks. Prices may vary but mostly depend on your food and drink selection. Find their main pier near the opulent Ukraine hotel . The hotel is one of the “Seven Sisters”, so if you’re into the charm of Stalinist architecture don’t miss a chance to stay there.

The area near Poklonnaya Hill has the closest relation to the country’s recent past. The memorial complex was completed in the mid-1990s to commemorate the Victory and WW2 casualties. Also known as the Great Patriotic War Museum, activities here include indoor attractions while the grounds around host an open-air museum with old tanks and other vehicles used on the battlefield.

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The hallmark of the memorial complex and the first thing you see as you exit metro is the statue of Nike mounted to its column. This is a very impressive Obelisk with a statue of Saint George slaying the dragon at its base.

Maybe not as impressive as Shanghai’s Oriental Pearl Tower , the skyscrapers of the Moscow City (otherwise known as Moscow International Business Center) are so drastically different from dull Soviet architecture. With 239 meters and 60 floors, the Empire Tower is the seventh highest building in the business district.

The observation deck occupies 56 floor from where you have some panoramic views of the city. I loved the view in the direction of Moscow State University and Luzhniki stadium as well to the other side with residential quarters. The entrance fee is pricey, but if you’re want to get a bird’s eye view, the skyscraper is one of the best places for doing just that.

Day 4 – VDNKh, Worker and Collective Farm Woman Monument, The Ostankino TV Tower

Metro Station: VDNKh on Orange Line

VDNKh is one of my favorite attractions in Moscow. The weird abbreviation actually stands for Russian vystavka dostizheniy narodnogo khozyaystva (Exhibition of Achievements of the National Economy). With more than 200 buildings and 30 pavilions on the grounds, VDNKh serves as an open-air museum. You can easily spend a full day here since the park occupies a very large area.

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First, there are pavilions that used to showcase different cultures the USSR was made of. Additionally, there is a number of shopping pavilions, as well as Moskvarium (an Oceanarium) that features a variety of marine species. VDNKh is a popular venue for events and fairs. There is always something going on, so I’d recommend checking their website if you want to see some particular exhibition.

A stone’s throw away from VDNKh there is a very distinctive 25-meters high monument. Originally built in 1937 for the world fair in Paris, the hulking figures of men and women holding a hammer and a sickle represent the Soviet idea of united workers and farmers. It doesn’t take much time to see the monument, but visiting it gives some idea of the Soviet Union’s grandiose aspirations.

I have a thing for tall buildings. So to continue my travel itinerary for one week in Moscow I decided to climb the fourth highest TV tower in the world. This iconic 540m tower is a fixture of the skyline. You can see it virtually from everywhere in Moscow, and this is where you can get the best panoramic views (yep, even better than Empire skyscraper).

Parts of the floor are made of tempered glass, so it can be quite scary to exit the elevator. But trust me, as you start observing buildings and cars below, you won’t want to leave. There is only a limited number of tickets per day, so you may want to book online. Insider tip: the first tour is cheaper, you can save up to $10 if go there early.

Day 5 – A Tour To Moscow Manor Houses

Metro Station: Kolomenskoye, Tsaritsyno on Dark Green Line / Kuskovo on Purple Line

I love visiting the manor houses and palaces in Moscow. These opulent buildings were generally built to house Russian aristocratic families and monarchs. Houses tend to be rather grand affairs with impressive architecture. And, depending on the whims of the owners, some form of a landscaped garden.

During the early part of the 20th century though, many of Russia’s aristocratic families (including the family of the last emperor) ended up being killed or moving abroad . Their manor houses were nationalized. Some time later (after the fall of the USSR) these were open to the public. It means that today a great many of Moscow’s finest manor houses and palaces are open for touring.

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There are 20 manor houses scattered throughout the city and more than 25 in the area around. But not all of them easily accessible and exploring them often takes a lot of time. I’d recommend focusing on three most popular estates in Moscow that are some 30-minute metro ride away from Kremlin.

Sandwiched between the Moscow River and the Andropov Avenue, Kolomenskoye is a UNESCO site that became a public park in the 1920’s. Once a former royal estate, now it is one of the most tranquil parks in the city with gorgeous views. The Ascension Church, The White Column, and the grounds are a truly grand place to visit.

You could easily spend a full day here, exploring a traditional Russian village (that is, in fact, a market), picnicking by the river, enjoying the Eastern Orthodox church architecture, hiking the grounds as well as and wandering the park and gardens with wildflower meadows, apple orchards, and birch and maple groves. The estate museum showcases Russian nature at its finest year-round.

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If my travel itinerary for one week in Moscow was a family tree, Tsaritsyno Park would probably be the crazy uncle that no-one talks about. It’s a large park in the south of the city of mind-boggling proportions, unbelievable in so many ways, and yet most travelers have never heard of it.

The palace was supposed to be a summer home for Empress Catherine the Great. But since the construction didn’t meet with her approval the palace was abandoned. Since the early 1990’s the palace, the pond, and the grounds have been undergoing renovations. The entire complex is now looking brighter and more elaborately decorated than at possibly any other time during its history. Like most parks in Moscow, you can visit Tsaritsyno free of charge, but there is a small fee if you want to visit the palace.

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Last, but by no means least on my Moscow itinerary is Kuskovo Park . This is definitely an off-the-beaten-path place. While it is not easily accessible, you will be rewarded with a lack of crowds. This 18th-century summer country house of the Sheremetev family was one of the first summer country estates of the Russian nobility. And when you visit you’ll quickly realize why locals love this park.

Like many other estates, Kuskovo has just been renovated. So there are lovely French formal garden, a grotto, and the Dutch house to explore. Make sure to plan your itinerary well because the estate is some way from a metro station.

Day 6 – Explore the Golden Ring

Creating the Moscow itinerary may keep you busy for days with the seemingly endless amount of things to do. Visiting the so-called Golden Ring is like stepping back in time. Golden Ring is a “theme route” devised by promotion-minded journalist and writer Yuri Bychkov.

Having started in Moscow the route will take you through a number of historical cities. It now includes Suzdal, Vladimir, Kostroma, Yaroslavl and Sergiev Posad. All these awe-inspiring towns have their own smaller kremlins and feature dramatic churches with onion-shaped domes, tranquil residential areas, and other architectural landmarks.

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I only visited two out of eight cities included on the route. It is a no-brainer that Sergiev Posad is the nearest and the easiest city to see on a day trip from Moscow. That being said, you can explore its main attractions in just one day. Located some 70 km north-east of the Russian capital, this tiny and overlooked town is home to Trinity Lavra of St. Sergius, UNESCO Site.

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Sergiev Posad is often described as being at the heart of Russian spiritual life. So it is uncommon to see the crowds of Russian pilgrims showing a deep reverence for their religion. If you’re traveling independently and using public transport, you can reach Sergiev Posad by bus (departs from VDNKh) or by suburban commuter train from Yaroslavskaya Railway Station (Bahnhof). It takes about one and a half hours to reach the town.

Trinity Lavra of St. Sergius is a great place to get a glimpse of filling and warming Russian lunch, specifically at the “ Gostevaya Izba ” restaurant. Try the duck breast, hearty potato and vegetables, and the awesome Napoleon cake.

Day 7 – Gorky Park, Izmailovo Kremlin, Patriarch’s Ponds

Metro Station: Park Kultury or Oktyabrskaya on Circle Line / Partizanskaya on Dark Blue Line / Pushkinskaya on Dark Green Line

Gorky Park is in the heart of Moscow. It offers many different types of outdoor activities, such as dancing, cycling, skateboarding, walking, jogging, and anything else you can do in a park. Named after Maxim Gorky, this sprawling and lovely park is where locals go on a picnic, relax and enjoy free yoga classes. It’s a popular place to bike around, and there is a Muzeon Art Park not far from here. A dynamic location with a younger vibe. There is also a pier, so you can take a cruise along the river too.

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The Kremlin in Izmailovo is by no means like the one you can find near the Red Square. Originally built for decorative purposes, it now features the Vernissage flea market and a number of frequent fairs, exhibitions, and conferences. Every weekend, there’s a giant flea market in Izmailovo, where dozens of stalls sell Soviet propaganda crap, Russian nesting dolls, vinyl records, jewelry and just about any object you can imagine. Go early in the morning if you want to beat the crowds.

All the Bulgakov’s fans should pay a visit to Patriarch’s Ponds (yup, that is plural). With a lovely small city park and the only one (!) pond in the middle, the location is where the opening scene of Bulgakov’s novel Master and Margarita was set. The novel is centered around a visit by Devil to the atheistic Soviet Union is considered by many critics to be one of the best novels of the 20th century. I spent great two hours strolling the nearby streets and having lunch in the hipster cafe.

Conclusion and Recommendations

To conclude, Moscow is a safe city to visit. I have never had a problem with getting around and most locals are really friendly once they know you’re a foreigner. Moscow has undergone some serious reconstruction over the last few years. So you can expect some places to be completely different. I hope my one week Moscow itinerary was helpful! If you have less time, say 4 days or 5 days, I would cut out day 6 and day 7. You could save the Golden Ring for a separate trip entirely as there’s lots to see!

What are your thoughts on this one week Moscow itinerary? Are you excited about your first time in the city? Let me know in the comments below!

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24 comments.

Ann Snook-Moreau

Moscow looks so beautiful and historic! Thanks for including public transit information for those of us who don’t like to rent cars.

MindTheTravel

Yup, that is me 🙂 Rarely rent + stick to the metro = Full wallet!

Mariella Blago

Looks like you had loads of fun! Well done. Also great value post for travel lovers.

Thanks, Mariella!

I have always wanted to go to Russia, especially Moscow. These sights look absolutely beautiful to see and there is so much history there!

Agree! Moscow is a thousand-year-old city and there is definitely something for everyone.

Tara Pittman

Those are amazing buildings. Looks like a place that would be amazing to visit.

Adriana Lopez

Never been to Moscow or Russia but my family has. Many great spots and a lot of culture. Your itinerary sounds fantastic and covers a lot despite it is only a short period of time.

What was their favourite thing about Russia?

Gladys Parker

I know very little about Moscow or Russia for the\at matter. I do know I would have to see the Red Square and all of its exquisite architectural masterpieces. Also the CATHEDRAL OF CHRIST THE SAVIOUR. Thanks for shedding some light on visiting Moscow.

Thanks for swinging by! The Red Square is a great starting point, but there way too many places and things to discover aside from it!

Ruthy @ Percolate Kitchen

You are making me so jealous!! I’ve always wanted to see Russia.

Moscow is in my bucket list, I don’t know when I can visit there, your post is really useful. As a culture rich place we need to spend at least week.

DANA GUTKOWSKI

Looks like you had a great trip! Thanks for all the great info! I’ve never been in to Russia, but this post makes me wanna go now!

Wow this is amazing! Moscow is on my bucket list – such an amazing place to visit I can imagine! I can’t wait to go there one day!

The building on the second picture looks familiar. I keep seeing that on TV.

Reesa Lewandowski

What beautiful moments! I always wish I had the personality to travel more like this!

Perfect itinerary for spending a week in Moscow! So many places to visit and it looks like you had a wonderful time. I would love to climb that tower. The views I am sure must have been amazing!

I was lucky enough to see the skyline of Moscow from this TV Tower and it is definitely mind-blowing.

Chelsea Pearl

Moscow is definitely up there on my travel bucket list. So much history and iconic architecture!

Thumbs up! 🙂

Blair Villanueva

OMG I dream to visit Moscow someday! Hope the visa processing would be okay (and become more affordable) so I could pursue my dream trip!

Yup, visa processing is the major downside! Agree! Time and the money consuming process…

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• Sokolniki Park, Moscow
• Guide to Russia

What can you see and do at Sokolniki Park?

• Nature : Roam the kilometres of walking paths around the forested Sokolniki Park to spot rare flora and fauna, and admire the flower gardens
• Outdoor activities : Take a boat trip on the lakes or rent a bike to explore the park in summer, or enjoy ice skating and skiing in the winter
• Exhibitions and events : Sokolniki Park is home to exhibition centres and museums, as well as a husky centre and rare bird shelter. Cultural events are held all year round
• Kid-friendly activities : Children are well provided for, with a dozen adventure playgrounds, a theme park, and treetop obstacle course

Sokolniki Park in Medieval and Imperial Russia

Photo on park.sokolniki.com

In the 14th and 15th centuries on the site of present-day Sokolniki Park lay an untouched forest, reaching from Moscow to northern Russia. From the 15th century the area of the forest closest to Moscow was used by Russia’s rulers for falconry, and under Peter the Great, festivities were arranged in glades in the forest. The May Day holiday in particular remained for centuries the liveliest celebration to take place in Sokolniki, attended by thousands of people every year.

Did you know ? Sokolniki takes its name from the falconry enjoyed by Russia’s medieval rulers – the Russian word for ‘falcon’ is sokol. 

Landscaping of Sokolniki began in the mid-1800s, and the layout has been largely preserved until today. Glades and alleys fanning out from a central circle were laid, and modern technology was used to build irrigation systems, roads, and even a horse-drawn railway. In 1878, Sokolniki was acquired by the city of Moscow and transformed into a public park to be enjoyed by all. Many famous teahouses were built, and pleasure gardens complete with performances, dinners and dances were arranged in summertime. Festivities and royal events continued to be held, including the opulent coronation celebrations of Alexander III.

Did you know? Sergey Tretyakov, the 19th century mayor of Moscow, played an instrumental role in acquiring Sokolniki for public use. Sergey is the brother of Pavel Tretyakov, philanthropist and founder of the Tretyakov Gallery .

Photo by Ilya Repin on Wikipedia

Sokolniki Park in Soviet Russia

Following the October Revolution, Sokolniki Park remained in a state of neglect until the 1930s. On 16th May 1931, Moscow City Council declared it to be a park of culture and recreation, and serious restoration efforts began to revive the park’s former glory. Particular emphasis was placed on creating cultural leisure venues such as concert halls, reading rooms, and exhibition spaces. Carnivals were held in Sokolniki Park, which included guild carnivals celebrating different professions, children’s carnivals, and ‘friendship’ carnivals showcasing the national cultures of different countries and fostering the friendship of peoples. Sokolniki Park flourished in the post-war years. It was expanded into one of the largest parks in Moscow, and events of national and international importance took place there. These included events of the 1957 6th World Festival of Youth and Students, which was a watershed moment in Soviet culture as 30,000 foreign young people flocked to Moscow, as well as the 1959 American National Exhibition, the first international exhibition in Russian history dedicated to US industry and culture, which was opened personally by Nikita Khrushchev and Richard Nixon.

Sokolniki Park in Russia today

Sokolniki Park underwent renovation in the 2000s and was designated an area of “special environmental, historical, cultural and recreational value” in 2009. Aside from extensive landscaping, the restoration of the summer cinema, theatre and Large Rose Garden, and the addition of various sports facilities, a memorial sign was erected at the park entrance in honour of Sergey Tretyakov, without whose efforts Sokolniki would not have become part of Moscow.

What can you do at Sokolniki Park?

Relax in nature.

Sokolniki Park is an oasis of nature in Europe’s biggest city. 8 forest glades radiate out from the park’s central circle, each of which has been planted with certain species of tree – birches, sugar maples, lindens, red oaks, and more. In the woods, visitors can look out for owls, grass snakes, elk, and foxes. There are 13 ponds, some of which you can sail on, which are home to frogs and even beavers! Visitors can also relax in the beautifully-landscaped Large and Small Rose Gardens and Lilac Garden.

Did you know? Famous and rare trees have a QR code attached to them, so you can learn more about the fauna of Sokolniki Park.

Enjoy sports and outdoor activities

Aside from walking, there is a huge variety of sports activities on offer at Sokolniki Park. In summer you can play football, volleyball and tennis at the open-air sports centre, rent bicycles to explore 10km of cycle paths, hire boats, and visit the beach and swimming pool. In winter, a huge ice rink is set up in Sokolniki Park, and visitors can rent skis to explore the park on 45km of ski tracks. Other facilities include a skate park, trampoline park, and the largest indoor go-kart track in Moscow.

Did you know? Sokolniki Park is home to a famous chess club where some of Russia’s finest grandmasters have played.

Visit exhibitions and events

The Sokolniki Park Museum was founded in 2015 to share the history of the park and its surrounding district, and document centuries of leisure and festivities in Moscow. Sokolniki Park is also home to the Museum of World Calligraphy, the only such museum in the world, with 5,000 exhibits from 70 countries. The park’s Kvadrats Gallery hosts temporary exhibitions in an immersive multimedia and VR format. In keeping with centuries-old tradition, events of all kinds are held at Sokolniki Park – orchestral concerts, screenings at the summer cinema, literary readings, dance evenings, fairs and markets, sports competitions, and more.

Bring your kids

There are activities for all ages at Sokolniki Park, and especially for children. Aside from 12 adventure playgrounds, including the ‘Emerald City’ complex for disabled children, there is a treetop obstacle course and theme park with 20 rides, including a 35-metre Ferris wheel.

Did you know? Children can also meet animals at Sokolniki Park, which is home to more than 20 rare species of birds of prey at the ornithological shelter, as well as 22 huskies in the Husky Park!

What’s nearby?

• VDNKh Park : The All-Russian Exhibition Centre is the largest exhibition, museum, and recreational complex in the world. Russian and international exhibitions, cultural and business events are held in its historical pavilions, palaces, and gardens.
• Losiny Ostrov National Park: Sokolniki Park lies at the western edge of the second-oldest national park in Russia, Losiny Ostrov. Over 25% of its territory is located inside Moscow’s city limits, making it the third-largest forest in the world attached to a major city.

Essential information for visitors

Address and contact details

Ulitsa Sokolnichesky Val, Moscow, 107113

Phone: +7 499 39-39-222

Website: http://park.sokolniki.com/en/

Email: [email protected]

Nearest metro: Sokolniki (460m to main entrance)

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