Summer is national park season for a reason.
Long days, open roads, and trails that have finally melted out make July one of the best times of year to explore America’s parks. This week we’re looking at four parks that deserve a spot on your summer travel list, from the iconic arches of Utah to alpine lakes in Colorado.
It might be a little late to plan for this summer - but save this or come back to it for next summer (and start planning at least 6 months in advance.
Arches National Park: Some places are famous for a reason. Delicate Arch, Landscape Arch, Devils Garden, and sunset views that somehow live up to the hype. Arrive early, stay late, and avoid the middle of the day if you can.
Bryce Canyon National Park: The hoodoos get all the attention, but hiking below the rim is what makes Bryce special. Sunrise here is one of the best in the entire national park system.
Canyonlands National Park: Bigger, wilder, and less crowded than many of Utah’s other parks. Mesa Arch at sunrise, Island in the Sky overlooks, and the White Rim Road make this one of our favorites.
Rocky Mountain National Park: Alpine lakes, mountain views, wildlife, and some of the best hiking in the country. Summer is prime season, but planning ahead is essential.
Cadillac Mountain Sunrise, Acadia National Park:One of the most famous sunrises in the country and one of the best ways to start a day in Acadia.
Jordan Pond Path, Acadia National Park: An easy walk with incredible views, crystal-clear water, and a chance to experience one of Acadia’s most iconic landscapes.
If you’re visiting national parks this summer, don’t assume you can just show up and drive in. Several of the most popular parks now require reservations, timed-entry permits, or advance planning during peak season.
Some parks require:
Timed-entry reservations
Shuttle reservations
Backcountry permits
Campground reservations months in advance
The easiest way to avoid disappointment is to check requirements as soon as you start planning your trip.
Read: National Park Reservations Made Easy
America the Beautiful Pass: If you’re visiting three or more national parks this year, the annual pass usually pays for itself and covers entrance fees at national parks and many federal recreation sites. → Get Your Pass
National Park Guidebooks: A good guidebook can save hours of research and help you find hikes, viewpoints, and lesser-known spots before you arrive.
I provide my own travel advice and gear recommendations based on my experience, but please do you own safety research. Links in this newsletter may be affiliate links.
As a travel agent, writer, photographer and active traveller, I often come across amazing deals and resources and share them here. Last month I launches a course to share my top tips of budgeting for Adventure Travel - I put all my top tips into this course for saving money.
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Have fun out there,
Gretchen
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