What could be better than breathing in the fresh air while the sun warms your back? A vacation to one of the country’s hundreds of parks or shorelines will leave you with a new appreciation for nature and a checklist of where to visit next year. From Acadia to Yosemite, there’s a national park full of adventure for anyone.
Acadia National Park: Known for its jagged coastline and diverse plant and animal population, Acadia National Park in Maine is perfect for biking, hiking and swimming.
Hiking: Strap on your backpack and hiking boots in Acadia. With 125 miles of hiking terrain, both the novice and the most advanced hiker will find a trail that suits them. Explore the mountains, enjoy spectacular views of the coastline and catch your breath through the flat meadows.
To ensure your safety and comfort, check out the hiking trail difficulty sheet from the Maine National Park Service.
Swimming: When the summer heat is too much, head to the shore. Sand Beach and Echo Lake Beach are open to swimmers during the summer season. The water will be chilly, but what’s more refreshing than a dip in the cool, salty ocean after a day of hiking. The NPS suggests Echo Lake Beach for a “somewhat warmer swimming experience.” Lifeguards patrol both beaches.
Tours: If exploring the park alone isn’t on your agenda, consider a guided tour by a park ranger. While most tours are free, it's best to check with the park about fees and schedules.
When planning your trip to a national park, consider what is your unique about the location. Acadia is steeped in maritime history. Be sure to check out the Bass Harbor Head Lighthouse and Islesford Historical Museum, which houses ship models and more.
When to go: Acadia National Park is open year-round, but the visitor’s center, museum, campgrounds and roads close during the winter. Check with the National Park Service for operating hours and seasonal closures.
Grand Canyon National Park: One of the natural wonders of the world, the Grand Canyon is located in Arizona and draws close to 5 million people each year, according to the National Park Service.
Sight-seeing: The most popular place to view the canyon is at the South Rim, which is open year-round. There is shuttle service that operates in and around the area. For less crowds, head to the North Rim. However, it is only open from mid-May to mid-October. For many visitors, the Grand Canyon is part of an exciting road trip. Major airlines fly into Flagstaff, Phoenix or Las Vegas and there is limited service to the Grand Canyon Airport. Rent a car and start your journey!
Hiking: Embarking on a hiking trip in the Grand Canyon is both challenging and rewarding. Take in the breathtaking views and return home with plenty of tales to tell. Both day and overnight hiking is permitted, but no matter which option you choose, be prepared. Each year, hundreds of people are rescued so plan accordingly with proper clothing, water and food. Check with the Arizona National Park Service for hiking tips and which trails are intended for day and overnight use.
River Rafting: Thrill-seekers can hit the Colorado River for one-to- two-day and three-to-18-day commercial trips. Non-commercial trips are also available, but those are self-guided and permits are given out based on a lottery, according to the NPS.
When to go: The South Rim is busiest during the summer, so reservations are recommended at area lodging. Services and lodging close in October at the North Rim and the road leading there often closes in the winter due to snow.
Yellowstone National Park: Not only is Yellowstone the country’s first national park, it’s also home to Old Faithful. Visitors looking for adventure won’t have a shortage here. From boating to llama packing, there are plenty of reasons to head to Yellowstone in Wyoming.
Old Faithful: This geyser is famous for its predictability, but with droughts in recent years, it appears Old Faithful’s eruption cycle has gone from 61 minutes to about an hour and a half, according to a study published in the science journal Geology in June 2008. Stay to see this natural phenomenon or move on to the many other hot springs throughout the park.
Horseback Riding & Llama Packing: See the sights from atop a horse or llama. One- and two-hour long horseback rides are available, while horse and llama trips can also be set up with a licensed outfitter. Check with the Yellowstone National Park Service for more information.
Wildlife: Animal lovers will enjoy the diverse wildlife population in Yellowstone. From bison to bears, the park is home to animals that many of us will never see at home. These animals are wild so take necessary precautions and do not get too close. Check with park rangers about staying safe.
When to go: Road closures and park entrances are opened and closed on different dates, according to the National Park Service. Check Yellowstone’s operating schedule for the most up-to-date information.
Yosemite National Park: Yosemite National Park in California is an outdoor-enthusiast’s dream. Biking, bird watching, rock climbing and winter sports are just some of the ways visitors can enjoy this park.
Waterfalls: Visit Yosemite’s famous waterfalls in the spring because many run dry in the summer. Yosemite Falls is one of the world’s tallest waterfalls, while Horsetail Fall is known for its fiery appearance when the water reflects the February sunset, according to the Yosemite National Park Service.
Giant Sequoias: Hikers can travel a few miles upward to see the giant sequoias, which is a convenient method when roads are closed from November to April. The trees are located in three groves and are best seen from spring through fall.
Winter sports: Certain trails are open for skiing (cross-country and downhill) and snow-shoeing. It’s best to check with the National Park Service for availability. If you don’t have skis, snowshoes and other equipment (or simply don’t want to take it with you on vacation), there are rentals available at the park.
When to go: Yosemite is open year-round and no reservations are necessary, the National Park Service states. Depending on your interests, certain seasons may be better for your visit.
Mount Rushmore: Visitors flock to South Dakota each year to see four American presidents carved into the Black Hills. It’s also a good idea, if time allows, to plan a trip to the Badlands National Park, which is about an hour and a half away.
Guided Tours: Learn the history of the mountain from a park ranger with a 30-minute walk to the base of the mountain. Or, spend an evening learning about patriotism and presidents in the Amphitheater.
July 4th Fireworks: Celebrate America’s birthday at Mount Rushmore. Each year, between 20,000 and 30,000 visitors view fireworks at Mount Rushmore. Plan accordingly for hot weather with water and appropriate clothing.
When to go: The park is open all year, but schedules are seasonal. Certain buildings are closed during the winter, like the Sculptor’s Studio and Audio Tour building.
A vacation to a national park is guaranteed to be memorable, but you also want to stay safe. Check with the individual park about safety, times to visit and park accessibility to ensure the best travel experience.
Jennifer Jope
© Cheapflights Ltd
Updated September 2008
